Almost 80% of defendants in corruption cases were convicted in 2024, number of sentences is growing

In 2024, almost 80% of defendants were convicted in corruption cases (Photo: HACC). Illustrative photo: Radio Liberty

The number of convictions for corruption offences in Ukraine is growing every year. In 2024, 2,195 people were convicted — almost 80% of all defendants in such cases.

According to the National Agency for the Prevention of Corruption, 60 people were sentenced in the High Anti-Corruption Court (HACC). Of these, 17 received real prison sentences (mostly 5 to 10 years), 34 were released on probation, and the rest were fined.

Property was confiscated from 25 per cent of the convicts, and most were banned from holding public office or engaging in certain activities.

See infographic: NACP

Most of the sentences in the HACC concerned abuse of power, misappropriation or embezzlement of property, corrupt influence and bribery.

Meanwhile, 2,135 people were convicted in local courts, mostly for offering or receiving bribes. The most common punishment is a fine.

For comparison, in 2021, 1,149 people were convicted of the same category of crimes, of which only 24 were for grand corruption.

As a reminder, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted in the second reading and in general the draft law №13271-1, which increases liability for corruption.