EU lawmakers push crypto onto anti-corruption agenda

Introduction

MEPs are urging the European Commission to address corruption risks linked to crypto assets, opaque ownership structures and digital tools in its upcoming anti-corruption strategy.

Key Calls for Action

Lawmakers are calling for stronger asset recovery, stricter rules on public procurement and grants, more harmonized standards for conflicts of interest, clearer lobbying rules and common rules for political financing. They also urge stronger protections for whistleblowers and investigative journalists.

EU Anti-Corruption Strategy

The Commission plans to adopt its anti-corruption strategy by the end of 2026. The strategy is intended to complement the European Union's anti-corruption directive, which entered into force in May. This directive harmonizes definitions of corruption offenses and minimum penalties across the bloc.

Implications for Cryptocurrency Regulation

The push for anti-corruption measures in the crypto space could have significant implications for cryptocurrency regulation in the EU. Lawmakers are seeking to address the opacity and anonymity of certain crypto assets, which can be used to facilitate corruption and money laundering.