Financial Crime World

European Union Fights Fraud and Irregularities: Bulgaria Takes Steps to Protect Financial Interests

Combating Fraud and Irregularities Affecting European Union’s Financial Interests

The European Union has taken significant steps to combat fraud and irregularities affecting its financial interests. The European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) plays a crucial role in coordinating the actions of Member States aimed at protecting the EU’s financial interests.

Bulgaria’s Efforts to Ensure Cooperation with EU Institutions

Bulgaria is also taking measures to ensure the necessary cooperation with OLAF and other EU institutions. In this context, the Council for Coordination of the Fight against Infringements Affecting the Financial Interests of the European Union was established in 2003.

The Council’s Functions

The Council, chaired by the Minister of Interior, brings together:

  • Ministers
  • Deputy ministers
  • Heads of administrative services responsible for managing EU funds
  • Directors of revenue agencies
  • Heads of control bodies, certifying, audit, and law enforcement authorities

The Council’s main functions include:

  • Proposing draft legislation on combating criminal offenses against the Union’s financial interests
  • Submitting annual reports on its activities
  • Adopting decisions on appropriate measures to optimize the fight against irregularities and fraud

Cooperation with Bulgarian Prosecution Service

The Bulgarian Prosecution Service is also involved in the fight against fraud and irregularities affecting the EU’s financial interests. The Council for Coordination of the Fight against Infringements Affecting the Financial Interests of the European Union has signed a cooperation agreement with the Prosecution Service, outlining:

  • Conditions
  • Procedure
  • Competent bodies
  • Form of interaction and cooperation between the two institutions

AFCOS Directorate’s Role

The AFCOS Directorate within the Ministry of Interior also plays an important role in the fight against fraud and irregularities. The Directorate performs:

  • Control activities
  • Information activities
  • Coordination activities relating to the protection of the EU financial interests
  • Acts as a Secretariat for the Council

Conclusion

In conclusion, Bulgaria is taking concrete steps to protect its financial interests and ensure cooperation with EU institutions in combating fraud and irregularities affecting the Union’s financial interests.