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The European Union (EU) gives money to its 28 Member States. The Member States have to use the money in ways which respect human rights. Often the Member States do not do this. For example, European funds are used to keep people with disabilities in institutions. An investigation has been started in order to find solutions for these problems. |
An inquiry into the European Commission’s role in assuring respect for fundamental human rights in the earmarking and use of European Union (EU) funding has been launched by European Ombudsman Emily O’Reilly.
The investigations comes as a response to the multiple complains received by the Ombudsman alleging difficulties to access funds, instances of discriminations or of using funds in ways which do not comply with the Charter of Fundamental Rights.
The Ombudsman also criticised the use of EU structural funds to support institutionalisation of people with disabilities, contrary to the principles of community-living and social inclusion: “It is key for the credibility of the European Union that, wherever EU money is spent, fundamental rights are respected. In many cases, these funds are supposed to help the most vulnerable members of society. But if, for example, there are complaints that EU money is used to “institutionalise” persons with disabilities instead of helping to integrate them, the Commission clearly needs to ensure the matter is investigated and corrective action taken if needed“, said Ms. O’Reilly.
In an open letter to the EU Commission, the European Ombudsman is asking a series of questions revolving around the central issue of how the Commission is working towards guaranteeing the correct implementation of EU’s cohesion policy.
Further information about the European Ombudsman’s investigation can be found at the following link.
The full text of the Letter to the Commission can be found at this address.
