This Anti-Corruption Helpdesk brief was produced in response to a query from one of Transparency International’s national chapters. The Anti-Corruption Helpdesk is operated by Transparency International and funded by the European Union.
Query
When authoritarian leaning governments lose power as a result of democratic or constitutional processes, how can domestic and international actors use “windows of opportunity” to repair captured anti-corruption and oversight institutions?
Summary
Political turnover in post-authoritarian settings often creates a temporary window of opportunity to reverse institutional capture of anti-corruption and oversight institutions. Durable reform depends on moving quickly, from protecting evidence and stabilising key bodies to rebuilding independent courts, prosecution services, audit institutions and civil service systems. External actors can help most by offering flexible expertise, supporting domestic reform coalitions and promoting long-term institutional capacity. However, urgency should not come at the expense of due process, which is necessary to preserve legality and protect institutions from future misuse.
Authors
Mert Kartal, [email protected]
Reviewers
Caitlin Maslen, Lidija Prokic and Vlora Rechica (TI)
Miklós Ligeti (TI Hungary)
David Kotora (TI Czech Republic)
Date
21/09/2026
