IMF reacts to Constitutional Court’s decision: E-declarations should not be dismantled

This is stated in the response of the IMF spokesperson to Ukrinform's information inquiry regarding the Fund's reaction to the decision of the Constitutional Court of Ukraine on e-declarations.

“The launch of a comprehensive electronic system for asset and income disclosure by high-level officials in 2016 was, and remains, a critical step forward in anti-corruption efforts and should not be dismantled,” the IMF noted.

It is underscored that creation of an effective anti-corruption framework has been a critical element of the IMF’s engagement with Ukraine for the last few years.

“Maintaining and enhancing the effectiveness of all of Ukraine’s anti-corruption institutions is key to unlocking stronger and more equitable growth and is therefore an essential commitment under the IMF-supported program,” the IMF spokesperson emphasized.

As noted, “discussions on outstanding issues are ongoing.”

As reported, the Constitutional Court of Ukraine on October 27 declared unconstitutional Article 366-1 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, which provides for penalties for incorrect information in asset declarations.

The Court’s decision caused a public outcry, the situation was considered at the meeting of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine. The President and the Government put forward legislative initiatives to settle the issue in order to restore the capacity of anti-corruption bodies and the system for asset and income disclosure by civil servants, as well as to strictly comply with Ukraine’s international obligations.

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