EU Auditors highlight key areas for simplifying Cohesion policy after 2020

​Simplifying rules for Cohesion spending is a key challenge to be addressed for the post-2020 period. In a new Briefing Paper from the European Court of Auditors, the auditors set out a series of principles to be followed and key areas that need attention by the European Commission, the European Parliament and the Member States when deciding on new rules.

“Over the years, the delivery of Cohesion policy has become too complex, despite the efforts of the European Commission”, said Ladislav Balko, the Member of the European Court of Auditors responsible for the Briefing Paper. “There is agreement on the need for further simplification after 2020, but there also must be clarity on the objectives of simplification and how to do it.”

In general, the auditors propose that the guiding principles for simplifying the policy after 2020 should entail a well-defined strategy with an evidence-based and structured approach. In order to achieve effective simplification the Commission, the European Parliament, the Council and the Member States all need to demonstrate firm commitment; they should also keep in mind that simplification is not a goal in itself and should not jeopardise improvements already achieved in internal controls.