Why Fighting Corruption is Important

Corruption undermines the very foundations of a just and prosperous society. It erodes trust in institutions, diverts vital resources away from essential public services like healthcare and education, and fuels inequality. When corruption thrives, the rule of law weakens, democratic processes are compromised, and economic development is stifled. Fighting corruption isn't just about catching criminals; it's about building a society where everyone has equal opportunities, where resources are used efficiently and transparently, and where citizens can hold their leaders accountable. Transparency International Belgium is committed to creating a corruption-free Belgium, because a fairer and more equitable future is possible – but only if we fight for it together.

Belgian Law

Belgium's legal framework for combating corruption is multifaceted, encompassing various laws and regulations at both the federal and regional levels. The main articles of law can be found in the Criminal Code and include Articles 240 and 241 (embezzlement by a public official), Article 243 (gagging), Article 245 (taking of interests), Articles 246 to 252 (public bribery, Article 314 (collusion between businessmen) and Articles 504a to 504b of the Criminal Code (private bribery). 
 
Relevant legislation can also be found in individual laws. For instance, the "Law of 15 June 2006 on public procurement and certain contracts for works, supplies and services" is very important regarding fraud in public procurement and the "Law of 7 June 1994 amending the hot Royal Decree of 31 May 1933 on the declaration to be made in connection with susbidies, remunerations and allowances of any kind, which are wholly or partly borne by the state" is used as a basis for prosecutions for fraud in public subsidies.

Report Corruption

Would you like to report wrongdoing or do you have questions about reporting wrongdoing? In principle, it is best to do so first within the organisation concerned. Many organisations have a reporting centre with confidential advisers for this purpose. For more information about this procedure, and about your protection as a reporter, the best first step is to consult the labour regulations and/or a confidential counsellor. 

Should you find no or insufficient response to your report, you can turn to a number of external bodies. In principle, TI-Belgium is not an association to which reports can be made.  

Therefore, we are happy to refer you. Among others, you can contact: 

  • The Federal Ombudsman, for complaints about federal administrations.
  • Fraud Notification System, for reports of suspected corruption and fraud to the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF). For fraud and corruption affecting the financial interests of the European Union.
  • Fair Competition Hotline, a central point where you as a citizen, company or organisation can make a report if you suspect that a citizen or company is committing social fraud.
  • For whistleblowing within the Flemish government, a tiered approach applies. Your hierarchical superior is your first point of contact. If your problem is not or difficult to discuss via this route, you can turn to Audit Flanders.

If you want protection, you can turn to the Flemish ombuds service in the third instance. 

  • Sport fraud hotline, for reports and information on fraud in which persons involved in sports competitions allow themselves to be bribed in order to influence the normal outcome of the match.

 

To learn more about whistleblowing in Belgium, check the Guide for Whistleblowers – Federal public sector and private sector made by the Federal Ombusdman and the Federal Institute for the protection and promotion of Human Rights: Guide.