New project requested by the European Committee of the Regions consist preparing an analytical study on local state capture, a form of systemic corruption in which private interests gain disproportionate influence over public decision-making at the local and regional levels. While widely analysed at national level, its local manifestations remain underexplored, which is a gap that project will address.
The study will examine how political, administrative and institutional vulnerabilities enable capture within local governance systems, and identify early warning signs, risks and structural drivers. It will review international frameworks (EU, UN, Council of Europe, GRECO) and analyses how local authorities can strengthen resilience, transparency and accountability.
A central component of the project will be four case studies illustrating effective strategies to counter local state capture, including examples from EU candidate countries. These insights will support local and regional authorities in designing reforms, safeguarding democratic processes, and ensuring the responsible use of public and EU funds.
The project will contribute to the Committee of the Regions’ broader work on democratic governance, rule of law and integrity in public institutions.
Scope of Work:
- conducts targeted desk research on local state capture, vulnerabilities and international anti-corruption standards;
- develops a clear research methodology and analytical structure;
- prepares four case studies of successful anti-capture strategies;
- carries out expert interviews and validates findings;
- drafts the analytical study with actionable recommendations for LRAs and EU institutions;
- produces a concise communication leaflet summarising key messages and best practices.
