According to the latest Eurobarometer survey, corruption remains a major problem in the countries of the European Union. In addition the 8% of respondents say that they have been asked or expected to pay a bribe in the past year. The economic costs incurred by corruption in the EU are estimated to amount to around €120 billion per year.

The data published by the latest Eurobarometer survey show that corruption remains a major problem in the countries of the European Union and levels are thought to have risen over the last three years. Furthermore, most Europeans think corruption exists within local, regional and national institutions. Even more, Europeans believe that bribery and the abuse of positions of power takes place in all areas of public service. National politicians, and officials awarding public tenders are the most likely to be considered involved in such activities.

On the other hand, lack of action by politicians and a lack of transparency in the way in which public money is spent are contributing factors to the corruption according to most Europeans. The majority do not think that there is sufficient transparency and supervision of the financing of political parties. Europeans also think that corruption is unavoidable and that it has always existed. Two in three Europeans believe that corruption is part of their country’s business culture.

To the European Commission, corruption continues to be one of the biggest challenges facing Europe. In June last year, the Commission adopted an anti-corruption package, calling for a stronger focus on corruption in all relevant EU policies. It also established a specific EU monitoring and assessment mechanism, an EU Anti-Corruption Report, which it is expected to give a clear account of the state of play of anti-corruption efforts in all 27 Member States of the EU. The first report is scheduled for 2013.