Business Corruption in Latvia
Corruption is a problem for businesses operating in Latvia, and demands for
bribes
and other irregular payments are pervasive. Close ties between public officials and businesses, the influence of private interests involved in illegal political party funding and the unethical behaviour of companies are considered competitive disadvantages for the country. Latvia's
Criminal Law
criminalises several forms of corruption, including
active
and
passive bribery
,
gifts
,
conflicts of interest
and
influence peddling
. Anti-corruption laws are not effectively implemented by the government. The government recently strengthened the independence of the country’s anti-corruption commission, established a comprehensive e-government system and centralised procurement processes, but procurement remains the sector most affected by corruption. Giving gifts to expedite or obtain administrative services is reportedly widespread, and irregular payments may also occur.
December 2015
GAN Integrity Solutions