According to the 2022 annual reports on EU spending, published by the European Court of Auditors on Tuesday 7 May, the total amount of European funds declared as irregular was €14 billion, across all policy areas.
While the Commission records irregular expenditure accurately and quickly, the almost non-existent rate of recovery is highlighted as a major shortcoming by the Court of Auditors.
“Once the money has been paid in, it is very difficult, if not impossible, to get it back. The...