The European Court of Auditors (ECA) is an independent institution of the European Union (EU) that is responsible for auditing the EU's budget and ensuring that EU funds are used legally and correctly. The ECA was established in 1975 and is based in Luxembourg.
The main function of the ECA is to audit the accounts of the EU's institutions and bodies, including the European Commission, the European Parliament, and the Council of the European Union. The ECA examines the legality and regularity of the EU's revenue and expenditure, as well as the effectiveness and efficiency of EU programs and activities.
In addition to its auditing role, the ECA also provides advice and recommendations to the EU institutions on how to improve financial management and prevent fraud and irregularities. The ECA's reports and opinions are published and made available to the public, ensuring transparency and accountability in the EU's financial management.
The ECA is made up of one member from each EU member state, who is appointed for a renewable term of six years. The members of the ECA work together in a collegial manner, and decisions are taken by a simple majority vote. The ECA operates independently of other EU institutions and bodies, and its budget is entirely separate from the EU budget.
You can learn more about this topic and relevant case law with our EU Law notes.
