Monaco has formalised the creation of a high-level Steering Committee to guide its efforts in tackling corruption, marking a significant step forward in response to the Council of Europe’s Group of States against Corruption (GRECO) recommendations. 

The decision, revealed in a government statement Monday, follows a strategic meeting presided over by Minister of State Didier Guillaume which took place ahead of International Anti-Corruption Day on 9th December.

The Steering Committee will develop a national anti-corruption strategy and an accompanying action plan, focusing on GRECO’s 5th evaluation cycle, which examined executive-level governance and law enforcement practices. Implementation is set to begin in 2025 and will continue through 2028.

GRECO’s findings and recommendations

GRECO, the Council of Europe’s anti-corruption body, evaluated Monaco’s frameworks for combating corruption in June 2024. The report commends existing measures, such as the creation of an ethics committee, a risk mapping strategy, and draft legislation on whistleblowers. However, it calls for stronger laws and oversight to ensure integrity in high-ranking positions and transparency in areas such as government procurement, residency permits, and state-controlled businesses.

See also: Monaco must strengthen anti-corruption measures for top ranking officials, says GRECO report

Recommendations include extending ethics rules to advisers and senior officials, improving integrity checks, and introducing stricter conflict-of-interest policies, including for Prince Albert II in his executive functions. The report also highlights the need for whistleblower protection, transparency in interactions with lobbyists, and enhanced monitoring of the police force, including its power to issue residence permits.

A unified approach to reform

The recent meeting brought together key stakeholders, including members of the government, the Secretary of State for Justice, representatives of the Sovereign Prince’s Cabinet, and officials from Monaco’s administrative and legal departments. According to the government, discussions focused on concrete actions tailored to the Principality’s specific needs.

The Steering Committee, as announced, aims to ensure a cohesive and strategic approach to addressing GRECO’s recommendations, focussing on legislative reform, institutional transparency, and robust governance practices.

“Monaco remains committed to advancing its anti-corruption legislation in line with its institutional framework. This dedication aligns with over a decade of consistent efforts and improvements in anti-corruption measures,” said the government in its statement. 

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