Netherlands’ Anti-Fraud Game: Building Capacity to Combat Fraud and Corruption in ESI Funds
The Netherlands has launched an innovative anti-fraud training program, named the “Anti-Fraud Game,” to enhance the capacity of European Structural and Investment (ESI) Fund authorities to prevent, detect, and combat fraud and corruption. This training initiative was developed by the Dutch Ministry of Finance.
Trainer Background
- José Kremers: A former Senior Audit Manager at the Ministry of Finance’s Audit Authority, serves as the trainer for the Anti-Fraud Game.
- Certified financial and IT auditor, fraud investigator.
- Lecturer for the International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA) and the National Academy of Finance and Economics.
- Contact: jmwkremers@home.nl
Targeted Fraud Risks
The Anti-Fraud Game focuses on the following fraud risks:
- Conflict of interest
- Manipulation of public procurement procedures
- Double funding
- Collusion
- Manipulation of project costs
Objective of the Training
- Develop the ability to recognize potential fraud cases and apply suitable control measures
- Encourage participants to identify red flags of fraud and corruption
- Focus on observation of the environment and reliance on common sense in addition to traditional methods
Training Structure
Components
- Interactive anti-fraud practice
- Multimedia tools: videos, animations, games
- Suitable for ESI Fund stakeholders, including Managing Authorities, intermediary bodies, certifying authorities, auditing authorities, and other practitioners working with EU and national funds
Versions
- Anti-Fraud Game I: Raising awareness of the anti-fraud cycle
- Anti-Fraud Game II: Group work and discussions on potential fraud cases
- Anti-Fraud Game On the Spot!: Practicing identifying fraud cases in real situations
Unique Features
- Emphasis on developing the ability to detect fraud through observation and common sense
- Attractive and effective learning experience with awards and prizes at the end of the course
Results
Early outcomes from the implementation of the Anti-Fraud Game demonstrate its effectiveness in combating fraud at various stages of ESI Fund projects. The game is now being used in various public bodies and educational institutions across Europe, with plans for EU-level events and training sessions.