Anti-corruption legislation of Iceland

Abstract

Iceland is one of the least corrupted countries in the world according to Transparency International (1st out of 158 countries). Iceland has ratified a number of Conventions in the field and is a member of several organizations fighting against corruption such as FATF. The article offers a comprehensive analysis of Iceland’s legislation on issues of bribery, money laundering, bank secrecy etc.A bribe in the legislation is defined as “presents and other benefits”. The Attorney-General investigates the most serious crimes including those dealing with money-laundering and bribery, while minister for justice can exercise some control over the work of the attorney-general. It is important to mention that the Office of Attorney-General closely cooperates with the Police. As for the judicial system of Iceland it includes 8 circuit courts, Supreme Court, Court dealing with labour disputes, but still there has been created no particularized bodies to fight corruption despite recommendations of the respective organizations.There are separate paragraphs in the article dealing with the issues of abuse of official posts, bank secrecy, violence or threat of violence against civil servants or witnesses. Also in the article “Competitive Bodies” (Competitive Council, Competitive Appeal Committee, etc) are considered as they play a great part in fight against corruption. The other bodies involved in anti-corruption activities are National Audit Office, responsible for the implementation of the Law on state Budget, Ministry for Finance which bears responsibility for budget construction projects, Financial Supervisory Authority. Further on the question of immunities is considered.The conclusion made in the article states that Iceland authorities primarily focus on fighting bribery and ignore other problems related to the issue. To support the point in the end of the article a list of recommendations made to Iceland are quoted.