CONTROL AND PREVENTION OF CORRUPTION CRIMES IN UKRAINE AND LITHUANIA DURING THE STATE OF EMERGENCY AND MARTIAL LAW

Background: Martial law in Ukraine and the state of emergency in Lithuania have changed the daily lifestyles of many residents of these countries. The circumstances necessitating the introduction of these special regimes have also increased the risk of illegal activities, including corruption, in these territories. Methods: This study applied a comprehensive approach that included a thorough analysis of Ukrainian and Lithuanian anti-corruption legislation, reports on the implementation of anticorruption measures during the state of emergency in Lithuania and martial law in Ukraine, and content analysis of news media. The researcher surveyed 13 anti-corruption experts in Ukraine and, based on their answers and previous research materials, identified the factors that contribute to the spread of corruption in Ukraine during martial law and in Lithuania during its state of emergency. Survey results were also used to determine measures to control and prevent corruption during periods of exception in these countries. Results and Conclusion: The study of corruption in these contexts provides insight into the factors contributing to the spread of corruption. The anti-corruption experts in Ukraine selected the following factors as the greatest contributors to corruption: inadequate control and supervision (53.8%), increased need for funding (23.1%), lack of transparency and openness (53.8%), vulnerability and citizens’ moral hazards (38.5%), and aggravation of social problems and mistrust in authorities (61.5%). The analysis of these factors made it possible to provide recommendations to enhance the control and prevention of corruption offences in Ukraine and Lithuania. These measures include strengthening the independence of anticorruption bodies, increasing the transparency of government activities, disseminating anticorruption education, promoting international cooperation in combating corruption, and strengthening public control.