The Budgetary Control Committee of the European Parliament has created a new position during this legislative term: the Standing Rapporteur for Ukraine. (Full title: “Standing Rapporteur for the Monitoring of Financial Assistsance to Ukraine and Relations with the Budget Committee of the Verkhovna Rada.”) The purpose of this role is to oversee EU financial aid to Ukraine and ensure that the country’s control mechanisms function properly. A particular focus is placed on combating corruption. This role will now be taken on by Daniel Freund, Member of the European Parliament for the Greens.

Daniel Freund, Standing Rapporteur for Ukraine in the European Parliament’s Budgetary Control Committee, comments:

“Ukraine is already one of the largest recipients of EU funds. However, much remains to be done in the fight against corruption. We want to ensure that EU funds reach where they are needed – the Ukrainian people, schools, hospitals, and the country’s defense.”

“During a mission to Kyiv in April this year, I had the opportunity to assess the progress being made in combating corruption and visited oversight institutions. Significant steps have already been taken, especially in procurement and the digitization of administration. However, as part of the accession process, further improvements will be required.”

“The funds of European taxpayers are used most efficiently when they do not disappear into corrupt channels and thereby hinder Ukraine’s accession process. I look forward to contributing my experience to ensure the successful deployment of these funds.”