The ESBU discussed new formats of cooperation with partners on the ACN LEN OECD platform

 Representatives of the Economic Security Bureau of Ukraine participated in the 15th meeting of the Law Enforcement Network (LEN) of the Anti-Corruption Network for Eastern Europe and Central Asia (ACN), which is part of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), held in Bucharest.

"ESBU participation in the work of ACN LEN is an important step towards Ukraine's deeper integration into the international system for countering transnational criminal schemes," noted Taras Shcherbai, First Deputy Director of the Economic Security Bureau of Ukraine.

During the meeting, the Bureau presented its capabilities in countering international economic crimes and its approaches to cooperation with foreign partners in combating smuggling, money laundering, and corruption schemes of a cross-border nature.

In his speech, Taras Shcherbai focused on the practical work of Joint Investigation Teams (JITs). He emphasized that this tool allows investigations to be conducted simultaneously in several jurisdictions, enabling the rapid exchange of evidence, coordination of procedural decisions, and the conclusion of plea agreements that take into account the positions of all participating states.

"JITs significantly enhance the effectiveness of asset confiscation, especially those located abroad, and make cross-border investigations more productive," the First Deputy Director of the ESBU stressed.

In addition, bilateral meetings were held during the event with representatives from Slovakia, Moldova, and Hungary. They discussed opportunities to strengthen cooperation in countering economic crimes, exchanging evidence, and synchronizing approaches to responding to risks at the borders.

Also important was the meeting with the leadership of the National Anti-Corruption Directorate of Romania (Direcția Națională Anticorupție or DNA)—one of the most effective anti-corruption institutions in the EU. Discussions focused on joint challenges and formats for cooperation in cases that require rapid coordination and high-level expertise. This meeting is of strategic importance for the ESBU, as the DNA's operational models serve as a benchmark for European countries in forming modern standards for anti-corruption and financial investigations.

The Economic Security Bureau of Ukraine continues to strengthen international partnerships and develop financial investigation tools to reinforce the system for countering economic crime, money laundering, proceeds of crime, smuggling, and corruption in accordance with OECD standards.

Reference information:

LEN (Law Enforcement Network) is a network of law enforcement agencies under the OECD that unites prosecutors, investigators, and analysts from countries in Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and OECD member states. Its goal is to develop effective instruments for international cooperation, strengthen the practice of anti-corruption and financial investigations, and establish working relationships to counter complex transnational schemes.