Research into the essence and properties of corruption as an object of state policy

The article examines the phenomenon of corruption as a complex multifaceted socio-legal phenomenon that threatens the effective functioning of state institutions, undermines citizens' trust in the authorities and hinders the sustainable development of the state. Historical, legal and political approaches to defining «corruption» are analysed, in particular through the prism of domestic and foreign scientific thought, international regulatory and legal acts, as well as national legislation. Particular attention is paid to the consideration of corruption as an object of state criminal law policy, which requires a systematic, interdisciplinary and strategic approach to the formation of anti-corruption mechanisms. The typology of definitions of corruption is generalised and the author's interpretation of this phenomenon is presented. It is established that effective counteraction to corruption is impossible without a comprehensive anti-corruption policy based on legal, administrative, ethical and informational principles.