What support do companies require?
According to the study "Restoring Integrity in Ukraine: The Role of Ethical Business," 58% of the 118 Ukrainian companies surveyed require external assistance to strengthen their business integrity and corporate governance systems. Compliance—the set of processes that helps organizations obey laws and ethical standards—has become a key concern for firms aiming to meet international expectations. The most commonly cited needs included:
- training for compliance and risk management specialists;
- employee education programs;
- financial resources;
- digital tools;
- legal assistance;
- expert consulting.
The survey was carried out among 118 companies from the Professional Association of Corporate Governance (PACG) community. With more than half of respondents pointing to the need for outside help, the findings signal that business integrity remains a pressing challenge in Ukraine. The report was prepared by Accountability Lab and PACG, with financial backing from the New Democracy Fund, which is funded by the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Why compliance implementation is difficult
Ukrainian companies encounter multiple obstacles when introducing compliance frameworks. A major issue is the insufficient preparation of specialists who manage internal control, along with a lack of money to set up such systems. Many businesses also struggle to train employees responsible for following norms and regulations, which can create governance risks. Overcoming these challenges demands practical solutions adapted to local conditions.
What solutions do researchers propose
To improve the current situation, researchers put forward a number of recommendations. Their proposed measures include:
- making compliance tools more accessible to small and medium-sized enterprises;
- offering companies technical and legal support;
- launching targeted financing programs;
- supporting training and professional development for staff;
- helping implement digital control systems;
- creating platforms for companies to share experiences;
- organizing co-creation laboratories.
These findings highlight the growing importance of ethical standards in business and underline the need for backing from state institutions and international organizations for Ukrainian companies. Given the strain on Ukraine's economy, strengthening corporate integrity could play a significant role in restoring trust in the business environment and, in turn, contribute to a more favorable economic climate nationwide.
In light of the challenges identified in the recent survey, it is crucial to understand the broader context of business governance in Ukraine. A related report highlights that more than half of Ukrainian companies have been excluded from essential government consultations, which may further complicate their ability to implement effective compliance systems. To explore the implications of this situation, you can read more about the impact of government engagement on corporate practices here.