Europe continues to face growing risks related to corruption, money laundering (ML), and the financing of terrorism (FT). “Corruption remains a global challenge, undermining democracy, the rule of law, human rights, and public trust.” said Gianluca Esposito, Director General of Human Rights and Rule of Law of the Council of Europe. “Likewise, money laundering and the financing of terrorism pose serious risks to the integrity and stability of financial systems. The fight against these phenomena is as vital as ever and demands coordinated, multi-country efforts”. To address them, a new Mission Driven Initiative - Action against Corruption and Money Laundering in Europe – was launched in Strasbourg, France, on 25-26 November.

This initiative aims to help European countries reinforce their systems to prevent, detect, and respond to corruption and financial crime. It will support the development of clearer rules, more effective institutions, and stronger co-operation between countries, in line with international standards and good practices.

The launch event confirmed the initiative’s main priorities and discussed operational modalities with the Beneficiary States. Representatives from 15 EU member states* took part, along with experts and Secretariat members from the Council of Europe, as well as representatives from the European Commission (DG FISMA) and the Financial Mechanism Office of the EEA and Norway Grants.

“Action against Corruption and Money Laundering in Europe” is funded by the EEA and Norway Grants financial mechanism and implemented by the Council of Europe Economic Crime and Cooperation Division.