Introduction
Corruption remains one of the most serious challenges facing modern democratic societies. Beyond its obvious criminal law dimension, corruption undermines the rule of law, distorts market competition, erodes public trust in institutions, and discourages both domestic and foreign investment. In an increasingly interconnected global economy, effective anti-corruption systems are no longer merely a matter of criminal justice policy but also a prerequisite for economic development, institutional stability, and a state's international credibility.
Over the past two decades, the Republic of Croatia has undergone a profound transformation of its anti-corruption framework. Initially driven by the process of accession to the European Union and subsequently by obligations arising from EU membership, Croatia has developed one of the most comprehensive anti-corruption systems in Southeast Europe. Legislative reforms, institutional strengthening, and intensified international
