ACCEPTANCE OF AN OFFICER'S OFFICIAL OFFENSE, PROMISE, OR RECEIVING AN IMPROPER BENEFIT AS THE MOST COMMON CORRUPTION OFFENSE

Abstract

This article examines the legal nature of accepting undue benefit by officials, as well as the features of the qualification of this act in accordance with the current legislation of Ukraine, as the most common corruption offense in the official sphere. Particular attention is paid to the analysis of mechanisms for combating this phenomenon, which include both preventive measures and effective investigation and bringing the guilty to justice. After all, only a systematic approach to combating corruption can ensure its gradual eradication and the restoration of citizens' trust in the state. It is indicated that this problem requires not only strengthening the criminal law response, but also the formation of an anti-corruption culture based on the principles of integrity, transparency and responsibility.It is emphasized that corruption offenses related to the acceptance of an offer, promise, or receipt of an improper benefit by officials have a serious impact on public relations and the functioning of state institutions, having numerous negative consequences, including: 1) undermining trust in the state (citizens lose faith in the ability of state bodies to act in their interests, which can lead to social tension and political instability; 2) economic losses (corruption creates additional costs for business and citizens, reduces the efficiency of the use of budget funds and deters investment); 3) inequality and discrimination (persons who are not willing to pay bribes may be deprived of access to certain services or opportunities); 4) inhibition of reforms (corrupt practices impede the implementation of reforms aimed at modernizing public administration and improving the quality of life of citizens). It is indicated that an important direction of combating corruption is preventive measures aimed at forming an anti-corruption culture in society. This involves strengthening educational initiatives aimed at raising public awareness of the negative consequences of corruption, as well as developing mechanisms for public control over the activities of officials. Effective combating of this type of corruption is possible only if the legislative framework is improved, the effectiveness of law enforcement activities is increased, and civil society is actively involved in monitoring and control processes.