Overview
Independent Anti-Corruption Commission (NAKO) is a Ukrainian civil society organisation established in 2016 as a Transparency International initiative focused on defence sector reform. It became an independent organisation in 2019. Its purpose is to reduce corruption and strengthen governance in areas critical to Ukraine’s national security.
Mission and focus areas
NAKO’s mission is to minimise corruption risks in the defence and security sector through research, advocacy and public engagement. Its work centres on defence procurement, sanctions policy, democratic oversight and governance reform. By improving transparency and efficiency in public spending, it supports better allocation of resources and strengthens institutional integrity, which is relevant to risk management and accountability in finance.
The organisation also contributes to international policy discussions, including sanctions and economic pressure mechanisms, linking governance practices to broader financial and geopolitical stability.
Structure and governance
NAKO operates as an independent non-governmental organisation with a governance structure that includes a board or committee of Ukrainian and international experts, supported by a professional secretariat. It maintains strategic partnerships with Transparency International and collaborates with government institutions, while preserving independence to ensure credibility and public trust.
Leadership is headed by an executive director, and the organisation engages with policymakers, defence institutions and international stakeholders to influence reform processes.
Programs and offerings
NAKO produces research reports, policy analysis and recommendations on corruption risks, defence procurement and sanctions. It also conducts advocacy, public discussions and expert consultations to promote reform implementation.
Its outputs include analytical reports, white papers and monitoring tools that inform government, civil society and international partners. These resources provide actionable insights into governance risks and policy effectiveness, supporting practitioners seeking to understand accountability and transparency in high-risk sectors.
Mission
Our mission is to reduce opportunities for corruption through strong research, effective advocacy for reform, and increased public awareness, in order to strengthen the Ukrainian security sector’s ability to face challenges to the country’s sovereignty and democratic institutions.
