Overview

• The EU-Rechnungshof criticized the lack of transparency in distributing over €7 billion to NGOs between 2021 and 2023, with no centralized tracking system or clear NGO definitions.
• Around 40% of the EU Commission's direct funding was concentrated among just 30 NGOs, raising concerns about accountability and undue influence.
• The EU Commission has issued new guidelines prohibiting NGOs from directly lobbying EU Parliament members to address concerns over improper influence.
• Auditors highlighted reliance on self-declarations by NGOs to confirm adherence to EU values, such as the rule of law and human rights, as a significant oversight gap.
• The report has reignited debates over the governance of public funds, with calls for stricter monitoring and clearer criteria for NGO funding eligibility.