**Ukraine’s Government Finally Launches Competition for State Customs Service Director**
After a seven-month delay, Ukraine’s government has taken a step towards tackling the country’s massive smuggling problem. The decision comes as Ukraine faces pressure both at home and abroad to push through with delayed reforms.
The government’s move to curtail the independence of two anti-corruption agencies in July sparked large street protests and criticism from international partners. Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko announced on August 4 that a selection committee had been formed to find a director for the State Customs Service.
**A Step Towards Reforms**
The customs reforms are part of a larger package aimed at plugging an estimated $2.4 to $3 billion in customs payments lost to smugglers annually. The government’s decision to launch the competition is seen as a positive step towards transparency and accountability, but many experts believe it may not be enough.
“The protests and international partners likely had an influence on the government’s decision,” said Olena Shcherban, deputy executive director of Ukrainian non-profit AntAC. “But we should not expect much from this process.”
**A History of Delays**
The launch of the competition comes after a previous attempt was derailed in February when the government rejected three initial Ukrainian candidates without explanation. Opposition lawmaker Yaroslav Zhelezniak, who authored the customs reform bill, accused President Volodymyr Zelensky’s administration of blocking the committee.
“This is better than never,” said Zhelezniak, but added that he still has concerns about political interference in the competition.
**The Importance of Independence**
International candidates will have the final say in the competition to safeguard against political pressure. Business Ombudsman Roman Waschuk emphasized the importance of genuine independence in tackling corruption and smuggling schemes.
“Having genuinely independent people approach this means the breakdown of these long-established shadow arrangements,” he said.
