The SCGIS public organization is deeply concerned about potential changes that could affect the irreversibility of Ukraine’s European course and undermine anti-corruption achievements. We emphasize: a stable and effective system of environmental protection is impossible without continued European integration and strengthened anti-corruption efforts.
On July 22, 2025, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine voted in the second reading for draft law No. 12414. This draft law significantly limits the right of NABU and SAPO to conduct independent investigations.
As an environmental community, we see a direct link between transparency in public administration, the independence of anti-corruption institutions, and the effectiveness of environmental protection.
A significant portion of environmental violations have a corrupt component. Illegal logging, development on protected areas, uncontrolled extraction of natural resources – these and other crimes against nature are often made possible by corrupt schemes.
We call on the Ukrainian authorities to adhere to their commitments to European partners. A departure from the principles of democracy, transparency, and the rule of law will inevitably affect all spheres of life, including the critically important area of environmental protection for Ukraine’s future.
Maintaining the independence of anti-corruption bodies and continuing to move towards the EU is the path to a strong, transparent, and environmentally responsible Ukraine.