Bulgaria: Integrity tests for officials passed, but current appointees exempt

In a swift legislative move, Bulgarian lawmakers approved final amendments to the State Servant Act, establishing integrity tests for positions deemed at high risk of corruption. The changes, passed in under two hours, aim to bolster transparency and accountability within the civil service.

The new integrity tests are specifically designed for individuals who make decisions regarding public procurement. This includes officials responsible for awarding contracts and managing state funds, areas often vulnerable to corrupt practices. The intention is to ensure that those in critical decision-making roles adhere to high ethical standards.

However, the rapid passage of the legislation has drawn criticism. The amendments stipulate that already appointed officials will be exempt from taking the new integrity tests. This exemption has led to accusations that the law, while appearing progressive, may not effectively address existing corruption risks among those currently in power, prompting concerns about its practical impact.