As Denmark takes EU presidency, watchdog calls for action on stalled directive meant to unify anti-corruption laws across the bloc.

As Denmark takes over the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union on Tuesday, Transparency International is calling on Copenhagen to break a deadlock in stalled negotiations over the EU Anti-Corruption Directive.

Talks between EU member states and the European Parliament collapsed last week after negotiators failed to reach agreement on key provisions of the directive, which aims to standardize definitions of corruption offenses and establish common penalties across the bloc.

While the European Parliament has pushed for stronger measures, Transparency International says a handful of member states are blocking progress. Italy has reportedly demanded the removal of abuse of office as a criminal offense—despite international obligations under the United Nations Convention Against Corruption. Hungary and Germany support Italy’s request with the latter also being accused of resisting proposals that would require national anti-corruption strategies, and restrict the collection of enforcement data.

“Years in the making, the Directive was meant to demonstrate the EU’s leadership in tackling corruption. Instead, it is now paralysed by political resistance that puts the protection of power ahead of public accountability,” said Kush Amin, Legal Specialist at Transparency International. “If the political will isn’t found now, corruption will continue to erode trust, harm communities and undermine democracy across the Union.”

Nick Aiossa, Director of Transparency International EU, said the breakdown in talks presents a key test for Denmark’s leadership.

“Member states face a clear choice. They can show ambition and push for a strong Directive that delivers real protections for people across the Union, or settle for a compromise that avoids hard truths,” Aiossa said. “This will be a test of Denmark’s leadership – and a chance to prove that upholding integrity still matters in the EU.”

The directive has been under negotiation for years and has broad support among civil society. Last month, 57 organizations—including 23 Transparency International chapters—signed an open letter urging EU institutions to adopt and strengthen the Parliament’s version of the proposed legislation.

With Denmark holding the presidency through the end of the year—and topping Transparency International’s own Corruption Perceptions Index—activists say it is uniquely positioned to move the process forward.