PORTUGAL Trends and Developments Contributed by: Ana Reis Mota and Lua Mota Santos, Rogério Alves & Associados
Conclusion Portugal’s legal and institutional framework in 2025 reflects a strong commitment to reinforcing integrity, accountability, and the protection of public service roles. The full operationalisation of MENAC, together with the enforcement of the RGPC, represents a major step forward in creating a coordinated and preven - tive approach to corruption. The RGPC requires public and private organisations with 50 or more employees to implement comprehensive compliance measures, including risk prevention plans, codes of conduct, training programmes, whistle-blowing channels, and the appointment of compliance officers. MENAC over - sees compliance with these obligations, audits organi - sational procedures, and provides guidance to ensure that preventive measures are applied effectively. At the same time, Law No 26/2025, of 19 March addresses a separate but complementary area of reform. While it is not directly related to anti-corrup - tion, the law strengthens legal protections for public servants and other professionals performing essential public duties. By increasing penalties for offences such as qualified homicide, assault, resistance, and attacks on official vehicles, and by simplifying access to judi - cial proceedings through procedural cost exemptions, the law reinforces the safety and procedural rights of those who serve the public. Protecting individuals in public service indirectly supports the broader culture of professionalism and ethical conduct within public institutions.
The 2025–30 Anti-Corruption Strategy builds on these developments to promote a wider culture of transpar - ency and accountability. Its emphasis on prevention, compliance monitoring, and public awareness aims to integrate integrity into both public administration and the private sector. By combining institutional capacity- building with the legal safeguards provided by Law 26/2025, Portugal is fostering an environment where misconduct can be identified early, investigated effi - ciently, and systematically discouraged. Together, the RGPC, MENAC, and Law No 26/2025 demonstrate a dual approach: preventive measures and compliance oversight target corruption directly, while legal protections for public servants strengthen the resilience of the institutions themselves. If fully implemented, this framework is expected to enhance public trust, support institutional integrity, and pro - mote a more transparent and accountable society. While challenges remain, Portugal’s progress shows a clear determination to improve governance, safe - guard public resources, and create a sustainable envi - ronment for ethical conduct. Nevertheless, ongoing efforts in training, funding, and cooperation with Euro - pean partners will be essential to ensure these reforms translate into measurable reductions in corruption and financial crime.
252 CHAMBERS.COM
Powered by FlippingBook