On 28 August 2024, GRECO published its 5th Round Evaluation Report on Italy. The report addressed the effectiveness of the framework in place in Italy as regards the prevention of corruption among persons with top executive functions (PTEFs), and corruption prevention in law enforcement authorities, including the Italian State Police, the Carabinieri and the Guardia di Finanza.

GRECO acknowledged that Italy has a sizeable legal and institutional framework dealing with the prevention and fight against corruption. However, this framework is complicated to navigate, to the detriment of its efficiency. An example is the regulation of conflicts of interest, where several texts address different aspects of such conflicts for different categories of officials. Conversely, ministers’ advisers are not covered by any of these regimes. Deficiencies also exist with regard to financial disclosure regimes for ministers and their advisers.

Improvements are needed with regard to integrity checks of PTEFs. These improvements should include, for instance:

• Carrying out, on a regular basis, a systemic analysis of corruption and integrity-related risks covering all PTEFs;
• Adopting code(s) of conduct for PTEFs, which are (1) complemented with clear guidance regarding conflicts of interest and other integrity-related matters (such as gifts, contacts with third parties, outside activities, contracts with state authorities, the handling of confidential information and post-employment restrictions), and (2) coupled with a credible and effective mechanism of supervision and sanctions;
• Developing efficient internal mechanisms to promote and raise awareness of integrity matters in the government.

GRECO noted that Italy made progress in setting up transparency rules. Further measures should ensure an appropriate level of general public consultation on government draft legislation. More light should also be shed on the contacts of PTEFs with lobbyists.

Looking at the area of law enforcement, GRECO criticised the low representation of women in the State Police, the Carabinieri and the Guardia di Finanza, especially at managerial level. Although all three forces have a robust system in place for the prevention and management of integrity risks, GRECO makes a number of recommendations for improvements:

• The State Police needs a dedicated code of conduct, accompanied by effective oversight and enforcement;
• The Carabinieri and the Guardia di Finanza need to complement their ethical rules by more practical guidance;
• It holds true for all three forces that mechanisms for confidential counselling on integrity matters be introduced;
• Integrity checks should be carried out in case of transfers of staff and promotions.

Lastly, GRECO recommends increasing training and awareness-raising activities on whistleblower protection measures in the law enforcement authorities.

GRECO invited Italy to submit a report on the measures taken to implement GRECO’s recommendations by the end of September 2025. GRECO will monitor compliance with the recommendations in 2026.