Experts Convened to Protect Future EU Budget
Officials from 36 countries met in Brussels to address new anti-fraud strategies for European funding.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Financial Crime
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The European Anti-Fraud Office gathered over 120 experts from 36 countries to discuss protecting the upcoming Multi-Annual Financial Framework budget. The conference focused on shifting fraud prevention responsibilities to the national level.
Why it matters
As the next Multi-Annual Financial Framework moves toward a more performance-based funding model, the EU is prioritizing stronger cooperation between national authorities to safeguard financial resources. This shift aims to improve flexibility while maintaining oversight of European funds.
There are currently 37 active national anti-fraud coordination services, including 27 within EU Member States and nine in enlargement countries. The conference aimed to address discrepancies in size and capacity among these various services.
The players
European Anti-Fraud Office
This agency is responsible for investigating fraud against the EU budget and preventing corruption within European institutions.
European Commission
The executive branch of the European Union, it proposes legislation and manages the day-to-day operations of the union.
European Court of Auditors
This institution acts as the independent auditor for European Union finances to ensure taxpayers' funds are spent properly.
The details
Participants analyzed performance-based financial instruments and enhanced cooperation protocols with Financial Intelligence Units. The discussions centered on how national authorities will manage the increased burden of information exchange as funding structures become more flexible.
Timeline
The anti-fraud conference occurred in Brussels on October 6-7, 2026.
Legal Context
The transition to performance-based funding under the next Multi-Annual Financial Framework reflects a broader trend toward decentralizing EU budget oversight. This shift requires stronger coordination between national entities to prevent financial irregularities in a more flexible fiscal environment.
Effective fraud prevention ensures that European funds are directed toward intended projects rather than diverted by criminal activity. Citizens benefit from this increased oversight as it safeguards the integrity and efficiency of public financial resources.
The takeaway
Strengthening national coordination is essential for maintaining integrity as the European Union adopts more flexible funding structures. Authorities must continue to synchronize their capacities to ensure robust protection of common financial interests.
Further reading
Learn more about international efforts to combat financial wrongdoing in our Financial Crime section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by European Anti-Fraud Office.
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Should national governments take a greater role in managing and preventing fraud in EU funding?
