Repubblika notes the Government’s proposed amendments to the Codes of Ethics for Members of Parliament and Ministers.
While the proposals introduce stricter rules for MPs, they fail to address the areas where corruption risks are highest: the exercise of power by Ministers and the executive.
Ministers oversee public funds, award contracts, issue licences, and influence laws, often operating outside Parliament. However, the reform makes only minor changes to the rules governing them. Instead, it targets MPs in general, creating the illusion of progress while leaving the most crucial gaps unaddressed.
The proposals also lack transparency. There is no clear system for the regular public publication of asset declarations and interests. Information may be submitted to Parliament but remain inaccessible to the public.
This concern is reinforced by yesterday’s decision of the Parliamentary Committee on Standards to prevent the Commissioner from publishing decisions not to investigate complaints. This means that independent explanations may be withheld, allowing selective narratives to prevail.
International recommendations from GRECO and the OECD call for greater scrutiny of Ministers, increased transparency in lobbying and executive decision-making, and independent enforcement. These proposals do not meet those standards.
Repubblika urges the Government to open this reform to public consultation, not just discussions with the Opposition.
Ethics rules should serve the public – not shield those in power from scrutiny.
Repubblika is publishing its analysis of the changes announced by the government yesterday.
17.03.2026