On occasion of the International Anti-Corruption Day, held every year on 9 December, the President of GRECO, Marin Mrčela, emphasised the connection between the protection of democracy and anti-corruption efforts. He stated: “Against the risk of democratic backsliding, it is crucial that governments prove their commitment and show political will by adopting robust anti-corruption legislation and taking determined action against corrupt practices in all spheres of public life. Effective anti-corruption efforts will help restore the trust deficit that exists between institutions, politicians, officials and citizens. Anti-corruption progress is essential to safeguard democracy and the rule of law."

He also highlighted the need to mobilise young people to stand up for integrity and to involve the youth in anti-corruption efforts, otherwise a society built on freedoms and prosperity is at stake. Mrčela also referred to the Reykjavík Declaration on Principles for Democracy, which was adopted in May 2023. Here, the Heads of State and Government of the 46 Council of Europe member states committed to securing and strengthening democracy and good governance at all levels throughout Europe. They also committed, among other things, to pursuing "a relentless fight against corruption, including through prevention, and by holding accountable those exercising public power [...]."

Lastly, Mrčela pointed out the launch of GRECO's new (6th) evaluation round in 2025 focusing on preventing corruption and promoting integrity in local and regional authorities, i.e., the subnational level and therefore the closest to citizens’ everyday lives. He stressed that GRECO "will support local and regional governments across Europe, the United States of America and Kazakhstan in sharpening their tools to combat corrupt practices. They should show zero tolerance for corruption.”