The Group of States against Corruption (GRECO) of the Council of Europe has recently published a report calling for decisive measures to prevent corruption in Italy among individuals with top executive functions (PTEFs). These individuals include high-ranking officials such as the President of the Council of Ministers, ministers, undersecretaries of state, extraordinary commissioners, members of the offices of direct collaboration, and members of law enforcement agencies like the State Police, the Carabinieri, and the Guardia di Finanza.
In its evaluation report, GRECO acknowledges that Italy has a robust legal framework for preventing and combating corruption. However, it notes that the complexity of this framework hinders its effectiveness. Specifically, GRECO highlights the need to improve regulations concerning conflicts of interest and financial disclosure, as different rules currently apply to various PTEFs. The report emphasizes the absence of a common integrity framework that should be applicable to all individuals with top executive functions.
To address these issues, GRECO recommends implementing a systemic analysis of integrity risks and a specific code of conduct that is applicable to all PTEFs. Proper guidance, awareness-raising, and confidential counseling on ethical issues should also be provided. Rules and guidance on gifts, advantages, invitations, contacts with lobbyists, and post-employment need to be strengthened to ensure transparency and accountability within the system. Additionally, GRECO emphasizes the importance of appropriately sanctioning all violations of applicable rules, a practice that is currently lacking in Italy.
In terms of law enforcement agencies like the State Police, the Carabinieri, and the Guardia di Finanza, GRECO expresses concerns about the underrepresentation of women, especially at managerial levels. While these forces have robust systems in place for preventing and managing integrity risks, GRECO suggests improvements such as introducing integrity checks during transfers and promotions and at regular intervals for the most exposed functions.
The State Police, in particular, lacks a dedicated code of conduct, while the Carabinieri and the Guardia di Finanza need to supplement their ethical rules with more practical guidance. GRECO recommends that all three forces introduce mechanisms for confidential counseling on integrity matters and organize regular awareness-raising activities for all staff on whistleblower protection measures.
GRECO plans to assess the implementation of the 19 recommendations made to Italy in 2026 through its compliance procedure. This follow-up process will ensure that Italy is taking the necessary steps to address corruption among individuals with top executive functions and strengthen its overall integrity framework. By implementing these recommendations, Italy can work towards a more transparent and accountable system that upholds the highest ethical standards in governance and law enforcement.
