Strengthened EU-wide anti-corruption regulations to come into force
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Under the new Directive on the fight against corruption, more uniform anti-corruption rules took effect across the EU on 31 May 2026. The Directive introduces modern rules to improve the prevention, detection, and prosecution of corruption throughout the EU.
The new rules establish a more uniform EU-wide framework by harmonizing the definition of corruption offenses across all Member States—including bribery, embezzlement, excertion of undue influence, the unlawful exercise of public office, obstruction of justice, and illicit enrichment. The directive sets minimum requirements for criminal sanctions applicable to both individuals and companies.
Effective anti-corruption approaches in all Member States should build on measures to enhance transparency and integrity, including by regulating in areas such as conflict of interest, lobbying and revolving doors.
The Directive sets minimum rules on criminal penalties for both individuals and companies.
The new rules also introduce minimum rules on limitation periods to ensure sufficient time to investigate and prosecute corruption offences effectively. Member States must also guarantee that law enforcement and prosecutors have adequate investigative tools at their disposal and strengthen preventive measures, including through dedicated national anti-corruption strategies.
Member States must bring into force the laws, regulations and administrative provisions necessary to comply with the Directive by 1 June 2028.
The Directive is part of a broader anti-corruption agenda, along with the EU Anti-Corruption Strategy, for which a public consultation and a call for contributions are currently open until 6 July 2026.
The explanatory memorandum of the European Commission to be found here.
Source: European Commission, Press Release of June 1, 2026.