Criminal and legal characteristics of corruption in wartime: defense research

To fight corruption in the defense sector, it is important to prioritize anti-corruption measures and implement comprehensive strategies. This includes creating a strong legal framework and regulatory mechanisms, ensuring transparency and developing areas of international cooperation. International cooperation in the field of defense is a platform for collective action, exchange of knowledge and mutual support in the fight against corruption. This contributes to strengthening the integrity of defense institutions, the transparency of procurement processes and the creation of a global environment where corruption is less likely to flourish. The success of anti-corruption measures significantly depends on the ability to respond to current manifestations of corruption, to develop effective countermeasures and to forecast promising changes and transformational processes in corruption. Therefore, it is important to assess the potential «development» of corruption in the selected sector in the conditions of post-war reconstruction. Today, the question of increasing criminal liability for corruption offenses during wartime is relevant, because the statistical data of the website of the General Prosecutor's Office of Ukraine, which have been reviewed, show that, provided that the corruption offense itself is detected, such persons are not brought to justice in 99 % of cases. The explanation for this situation is the absence of an effective mechanism for investigating such criminal offenses, including the absence of a criminal law norm of responsibility for corruption during wartime. It is concluded that corruption in the defense sector undermines public trust and weakens democratic governance. When defense officials engage in corrupt practices, it undermines the principles of accountability, transparency, and integrity. This fosters a culture of impunity and erodes the rule of law, ultimately undermining citizens' trust in state institutions and their ability to protect national interests.