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EU Ambassador: Criminal networks are using corruption to gain power

Politiko 2025-06-17 10:37:45

EU Ambassador: Criminal networks are using corruption to gain power

The European Union Ambassador, Silvio Gonzato, has stated that organized crime and corruption continue to be security threats to the EU and the Western Balkan countries.

Speaking at the Chief Prosecutors' Forum, Gonzato said that criminal networks are using corruption at high levels to expand their influence and evade justice.

The EU Ambassador emphasized the need to strengthen the impact of the law, as a step that will help Albania integrate into the EU.

“The EU and the Western Balkans continue to face common security threats from organised crime and corruption and cooperation between the judiciary and actors across borders is essential to combat cross-border crime, but also to protect victims of crime. We recognise the commitment of countries in the region to jointly combat organised crime which causes huge economic damage. It is harmful to social cohesion and the well-being of citizens and also erodes citizens’ trust in institutions. High-level corruption is the first of many criminal activities and a security threat. Criminal networks use corruption at high levels to expand their influence, or to evade justice.

Strengthening the rule of law is a key challenge for countries in the accession process, and tangible results in this regard are essential elements for moving forward in EU integration.

"Independent prosecution services that can investigate and prosecute crime without fear or favor are essential prerequisites for EU membership," Gonzato declared.

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