On Wednesday, February 12, 2025, the Ukrainian Bar Association hosted an open meeting dedicated to electing the Director of the Economic Security Bureau of Ukraine (ESBU). This open dialogue provided the public an opportunity to get to know the candidates for this critical role.

Tetiana Lysovets, UBA Vice President and Senior Partner at Sokolovskyi & Partners, moderated the event, emphasizing the importance of a competitive selection process and open discussion about the future of the ESBU.

Ruslan Pakhomov shared insights from his law enforcement experience — particularly in combating cybercrime — as well as his work in the corporate sector, crisis management, and digital transformation of government agencies. He stressed that reforming the ESBU must come from within, with a focus on transparency, technological advancement, and effective oversight of economic crimes.

Attila Kovchi, representing the Office of the Prosecutor General with over 25 years of legal experience, highlighted the need for a complete overhaul of state-business relations to foster economic growth and eliminate corruption in taxation and public procurement.

Throughout the discussion, candidates outlined their views on the strategic role of the ESBU, the importance of an analytical approach in investigations, digitalization, and tackling the shadow economy, while also addressing public oversight, business cooperation, and risk management reforms.

You can view the event recording below:

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