The establishment of the Integrity Authority is a milestone – the organisation reports to the National Assembly on its first year

The Integrity Authority has submitted its first report on 2023 to the National Assembly

“The establishment of the Integrity Authority is a significant milestone that reflects the commitment of Hungary and the European Commission to fight corruption”, writes Ferenc Biró, president of the Authority, in his overview prefacing the 30-page report. “As an autonomous institution, the Authority strengthens the separation of powers and spearheads efforts to clean up the economy.”

According to the president, the fact that a credible institution that, in January 2023, apart from a handful of dedicated employees, had virtually nothing, no resources or premises of its own, was built up in one year “commands respect” both at the national level and within the European Union.

The report reveals that, in 2023, the 5 closed and 16 ongoing investigations of the Authority concerned HUF 120 billion of European Union funds.

“We have identified inefficiencies and weaknesses in the public procurement and asset declaration systems. In response to these challenges, we have devised and published recommendations and solutions that consider the scope of the issue, are cost-effective, and offer a quick implementation. Through our reports and the establishment of an anonymous reporting platform, we aim to restore public trust and instill a culture of accountability”, writes Ferenc Biró.

The President believes the Integrity Authority has a lot of work to do in terms of prevention as well. “Our mission, however, goes beyond implementation. We are driving a cultural shift towards zero tolerance of corruption”, he writes. He adds that for the Integrity Authority to fulfil its intended purpose, it is imperative that the matter of its powers be addressed. This stands as the first and foremost priority for the Authority, and it is with this matter that the Authority seeks the support of the Hungarian Government, Parliament, and the European Commission.

As required by law, the Authority shall send the report also to the European Commission for information.

The report is available on the website of the Integrity Authority