Conflict of Interest Regulation in Transitional Legal Systems: A Comparative Legal Study of Ukrainian Compliance with International Anti-Corruption Standards

Abstract

This article examines the legal and institutional implementation of international standards on conflict-of-interest regulation within the Ukrainian legal system. Drawing on a comparative legal methodology, the study evaluates the degree of normative convergence between Ukrainian legislation and key international instruments, including the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC), OECD Recommendations, and GRECO guidelines. In addition to doctrinal analysis, the research analyzes 120 judicial decisions at the national, regional, and local levels to assess patterns of interpretation, enforcement disparities, and procedural compliance. The findings reveal that while Ukraine demonstrates a high level of formal alignment—particularly in its legal provisions on disclosure and sanctions—significant deficiencies persist in preventive mechanisms, judicial consistency, and institutional coordination. National courts apply conflict-of-interest rules with relative rigor, yet subnational courts exhibit variability in reasoning, procedural irregularities, and limited engagement with international legal norms. The study identifies structural obstacles that hinder effective enforcement, including the absence of harmonized jurisprudence, insufficient legal training, and weak oversight frameworks. These gaps risk reducing international compliance to a symbolic function rather than a substantive tool for safeguarding integrity in public governance. The article concludes with targeted recommendations for legal reform, emphasizing the need for judicial interpretive guidelines, independent monitoring bodies, and coordinated enforcement strategies. By situating Ukraine’s legal system within a global comparative context, this study offers actionable insights for EU candidate countries and transitional legal systems seeking to enhance rule-of-law compliance and public sector integrity.