The Ukrainian parliament has passed a legislative amendment that significantly curtails the autonomy of two key anti-corruption agencies, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the High Anti-Corruption Court (HAAC). This decision has drawn immediate condemnation from the European Union, which had previously warned that such moves could jeopardize Ukraine’s path toward EU membership. The European Commission has highlighted that the impartiality and independence of these institutions are essential for progressing negotiations on Ukraine’s accession to the bloc.
Lawmakers in the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine’s parliament, justified the reform by citing the need for greater oversight of these bodies to prevent potential abuses of power. However, critics argue that the move undermines the very principles of transparency and accountability that Ukraine is striving to uphold. The European Union has reiterated its commitment to supporting Ukraine’s reforms but has also stressed that the country must demonstrate a genuine dedication to anti-corruption measures to maintain its EU integration timeline.
The decision has sparked internal debate within Ukraine’s political elite. Some members of the ruling party support the move, believing it enhances legislative control over critical institutions, while others warn that it could alienate EU partners and hinder progress on key reform agendas. The European Commission has already issued a statement expressing its disappointment, emphasizing that the autonomy of these agencies is a cornerstone of Ukraine’s fight against corruption and a prerequisite for EU membership negotiations.