Financial Crime World

Romania Adopts New National Anti-Fraud Strategy to Protect EU Funds

The Romanian Government has taken a significant step towards strengthening financial crime prevention by approving the national anti-fraud strategy for the protection of the financial interests of the European Union in Romania, 2023-2027.

Background

The new strategy was adopted through Government Decision nr. 1.259/2023 on Tuesday, December 19, 2023. The initiative was led by the Fight Against Fraud Department - DLAF and the General Secretariat of the Government, in collaboration with national institutions gathered within the SNLAF network.

Objectives

The overall objectives of the strategy align with the European vision on anti-fraud measures, focusing on:

  • Fraud Prevention: Preventing fraudulent activities that could harm Romania’s financial interests and undermine the efficient absorption of EU funds.
  • Detection and Investigation: Detecting and investigating fraudulent acts to ensure accountability and transparency in the management of EU funds.
  • Prosecution and Sanctions: Prosecuting fraudsters and imposing sanctions to deter others from engaging in similar activities.
  • Recovery of Funds: Recovering misused or lost funds to ensure that they are used effectively and efficiently for the benefit of Romanian citizens.

Key Features

The new anti-fraud strategy aims to:

  • Enhance transparency and accountability in the management of EU funds, ensuring their efficient absorption and effective use.
  • Coordinate efforts among national partners to prevent fraud and detect fraudulent activities.
  • Ensure full budgetary contribution to the EU budget, promoting Romania’s financial stability and credibility.

Availability

The National Anti-Fraud Strategy for the Protection of the Financial interests of the European Union in Romania, 2023-2027 can be accessed in its entirety in Romanian through Government Decision nr. 1.259/2023.

Conclusion

The adoption of this new anti-fraud strategy represents a major milestone in Romania’s efforts to safeguard its financial interests and ensure the efficient absorption of EU funds. The strategy is expected to enhance transparency, accountability, and cooperation among national partners, ultimately benefiting Romanian citizens.