MEP Javier Zarzalejos, on behalf of the European Parliament's Committee on Civil Liberties, has asked the European Commission how its forthcoming anti-corruption strategy will prevent corruption, build a culture of integrity, and safeguard the independence of judicial authorities and prosecutors. The written question, submitted on 15 July 2026, follows a Commission briefing to the committee on 25 June 2026, in which it described corruption as a serious threat to democracy, the rule of law, security, prosperity and public trust. The strategy is expected before the end of the year.
The question contains three concrete asks. First, Zarzalejos wants to know how the strategy will address prevention and contribute to building a culture of integrity and transparency. Second, he presses the Commission on how it will ensure the recently adopted Anti-Corruption Directive is implemented effectively and in a timely manner by Member States. Third, he asks how the Commission will strengthen safeguards for the independence of judicial authorities and prosecutors investigating corruption cases.
The strategy will build on the 2023 anti-corruption package, the Anti-Corruption Directive, the EU network against corruption, the annual rule of law report, the ProtectEU Strategy, the Democracy Shield and the review of the EU anti-fraud architecture. The Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks; its answer will signal the policy direction and level of ambition of the upcoming strategy.
The strategy could impose new compliance obligations on EU businesses and public administrations, while strengthening oversight by EU bodies and national authorities. Civil society groups advocating for transparency and rule of law may see stronger anti-corruption tools, but Member States with weaker enforcement frameworks could face pressure to align with EU standards.