A/HRC/32/22 84. The Government underlined the importance of an independent anti-corruption agency, with the power to investigate and receive complaints. It was important for the president and members of the agency to enjoy immunity in the exercise of their functions. Turkey 85. The Government of Turkey drew attention to the principle of transparency as a main element in the fight against corruption. It shared information on the reform of its procurement system to ensure that bidding procedures guaranteed competition, transparency and equal treatment, increased savings and efficiency and prevented irregularities. A public procurement institution considered complaints regarding the bidding procedures and played a crucial role in safeguarding the constitutional principles of the right to a remedy and equality before the law. Another measure concerned the regulation of asset declarations and the prohibition on receiving gifts. 86. In Turkey, the right to information was recognized as a constitutional right. A communications centre had been established as a further step to ensure transparency and integrity. The Government also shared information on the protection of whistle-blowers. 87. The Government highlighted the role of the ombudsman institution in the promotion and protection of human rights as well as in the fight against corruption, in particular the complaints procedure. Another important institution was the ethics board of public servants, which conducted investigations into misconduct and reviewed asset declarations. Turkmenistan 88. The Government of Turkmenistan emphasized that corruption was a major obstacle to the realization of human rights and disregarded basic human rights principles, namely transparency, accountability, non-discrimination and participation. Compliance with those principles was the most effective means to combat corruption. 89. The main principles underpinning the efforts to combat corruption in Turkmenistan were recognition and enforcement of the rights and freedoms of citizens, in particular to be protected from corruption; protection of the rights and interests of legal entities and individuals; equality before the law; the protection of persons assisting in the fight against corruption, transparency and openness of public authorities; control by the society and the State; and the use of integrated political, legal, advocacy and socioeconomic measures. 90. The Government drew attention to the importance of fostering a climate of intolerance of corruption. It also drew attention to the qualification requirements for citizens applying for public service positions and to the grounds for dismissal and promotion. 91. It highlighted the importance of victim and witness protection as well as the importance of freedom of the media and the special role of the prosecutor. Ukraine 92. The Government of Ukraine highlighted the transnational character of corruption and the consequent need for international cooperation. It also highlighted the importance of restoring the rights of citizens who were victims of corruption. 93. The Government drew particular attention to open and transparent competitive recruitment to the national anti-corruption bodies, their independent status and the necessary safeguards. 12