That strategy is intended to complement the European Union’s anti-corruption directive, which entered into force in May. The directive harmonizes definitions of corruption offenses and minimum penalties across the bloc.
Beyond asset recovery, MEPs called for stricter rules on public procurement and grants, more harmonized standards for conflicts of interest, clearer lobbying rules and common rules for political financing. They also urged stronger protections for whistleblowers and investigative journalists.
The Commission plans to adopt its anti-corruption strategy by the end of 2026.