A two-day training program aimed at preventing corruption and enhancing the integrity of officials and institutions within the Integrated Border Management (IBM) system was held on December 2 and 3, 2024. The event brought together twenty representatives from key institutions, including the Border Police Directorate, Customs Administration, the Border Phytosanitary and Veterinary Inspection.
The primary goal of the training was to improve the efficiency of anti-corruption efforts and to strengthen the capacity of officials to implement activities outlined in the Action Plan for the introduction of preventive anti-corruption mechanisms at the regional and local levels.
The program targeted managers at national, regional, and local levels who are tasked with planning and implementing policies to prevent corruption and enhance institutional integrity within their respective units.
The first day focused on the basics of combating corruption. Participants explored definitions, types, examples, and consequences of corruption. Discussions also covered criminal offenses related to corruption and both domestic and international mechanisms to counter it. Emphasis was placed on ethics and integrity in the public sector, including identifying ethical dilemmas and maintaining public trust through higher ethical standards in border services.
On the second day, participants were introduced to the Action Plan for implementing anti-corruption mechanisms at the regional and local levels. Discussions revolved around the key objectives of the plan and specific activities, such as staff rotation, employee supervision, and whistleblower protection mechanisms. A significant focus was placed on assessing corruption risks and evaluating the success of implemented activities using progress indicators.
"This training has provided us with practical tools and a deeper understanding of how to address corruption risks in our daily work," said one participant. "The knowledge and strategies shared during these two days will help us strengthen transparency and integrity within our institutions and improve public trust."
The training was organized as part of the "EU Support for Efficient Border Management" project, funded by the European Union.