The European Parliament has adopted common rules to combat corruption in EU countries

On March 26, 2026, the European Parliament adopted a new directive establishing a common framework for preventing and combating corruption in all member states of the Union. 

The legislative initiative received the support of 581 MEPs, with 21 voting against and 42 abstaining, according to the EP. The document introduces common definitions for crimes such as bribery, embezzlement, trading in influence, and illicit enrichment, and harmonizes the system of penalties to close loopholes in transnational cases.

Under the new rules, EU countries are required to develop and update national anti-corruption strategies annually with the involvement of civil society. Maximum penalties for corruption offenses in national legislation cannot be too lenient, although states retain the right to impose stricter measures at their discretion. The directive devotes particular attention to preventing conflicts of interest, ensuring transparency in the financing of political activities, and strengthening cooperation with European institutions such as OLAF, Europol, and the European Public Prosecutor’s Office.

Following official approval by the Council of the EU, the directive will enter into force 20 days after its publication in the Official Journal. Member states are given 24 months to implement the main provisions into national law, with a transition period of up to 36 months provided for certain provisions. The adoption of these laws coincides with the EU’s preparation of a €90 billion loan for Ukraine, the terms of which also include anti-corruption reforms, and with increased oversight of the use of financial aid amid resource shortages.

Under the Biden administration, the U.S. Treasury Department imposed sanctions on Antal Rogan, the chief of staff to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. He was found guilty of corruption in Hungary.