Hungary’s Anti-Fraud Watchdog: A Toothless Tiger?
Hungary has established an Integrity Authority (IA) to oversee EU funds, but the body lacks the necessary powers to effectively combat fraud. The IA’s head, Ferenc Biro, has publicly stated that the authority requires more powers to investigate and prosecute fraud cases.
EU Response
The European Commission has welcomed the creation of the IA but has warned that it must be given real powers to be effective. The Commission has also launched an infringement procedure against Hungary for failing to fully transpose EU anti-fraud regulations into national law.
Contradictions with EU Regulations
Hungary’s actions have been found to contradict several EU regulations, including the EU Anti-Fraud Regulation and the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) Regulation. Hungary has opted out of the EPPO and has not provided an equivalent national mechanism for cross-border fraud prosecution.
Key Quotes
- ‘The authority lacks investigative powers which are absolutely essential,’ - Ferenc Biro, head of the Integrity Authority.
- ‘You cannot stop an infringement procedure for political reasons or by sending letters,’ - Margaritis Schinas, Vice-President of the European Commission.