GRECO: Fifth Round Evaluation Report on Liechtenstein
19 September 2025 // Preprint Issue 2/2025
2018-Max_Planck_Herr_Wahl_1355_black white_Zuschnitt.jpg Thomas Wahl

On 27 May 2025, GRECO published its 5th Round Evaluation Report on Liechtenstein. The report evaluates the effectiveness of the measures adopted by the authorities of Liechtenstein to prevent corruption and promote integrity in central governments (top executive functions) and law enforcement agencies. It contains a critical analysis of the situation, reflecting on the efforts made by the actors concerned and the results achieved. It identifies possible shortcomings and makes recommendations for improvement with regard to transparency, integrity, and accountability in public life, in line with GRECO standards.

With regard to corruption prevention in central governments, the report states that Liechtenstein does not have an overarching anti-corruption public policy document. A co-ordinated strategy to promote integrity among persons with top executive functions (PTEFs) should therefore be devised on the basis of a risk analysis. GRECO is also unsatisfied with the level of transparency and the lack of regular activity reports from the part of the Working Group on Corruption Prevention. In addition, Liechtenstein should put in place a specific code of conduct applicable to members of government.

Liechtenstein should strengthen transparency with regard to PTEFs. GRECO sees here several shortcomings, such as possible risks of conflicts of interest and declaration of assets. The framework on access to information must be improved. Moreover, clear rules should be adopted concerning the procedure for public consultations in respect of draft legislation originating from the government.

GRECO particularly eyes the executive function of the Reigning Prince. It reiterates its long-standing concern that the Prince has the power to block or discontinue criminal proceedings in respect of PTEFs suspected of having committed corruption related offences. It considers these powers a potential threat to the independence and impartiality of the criminal justice system and recommends their revision.

Several recommendations are also made in respect of the National Police. Among others, GRECO recommends conducting a full assessment of corruption risks in policing areas and activities in order to identify problems and emerging trends; an integrity and anti-corruption strategy for the police should be set up. the protection of whistleblowers within the National Police should be strengthened as well.

News Guide

Council of Europe Corruption

Author

2018-Max_Planck_Herr_Wahl_1355_black white_Zuschnitt.jpg
Thomas Wahl

Institution:
Max Planck Institute for the Study of Crime, Security and Law (MPI CSL)

Department:
Public Law Department

Position:
Senior Researcher