The EU Council on 2 June 2026 adopted a recommendation to the European Parliament to grant discharge to the European Commission for implementing the 2024 budget, despite an adverse opinion from the European Court of Auditors (ECA) on high-risk spending. The recommendation, based on Article 319 TFEU and the EU's Financial Regulation (Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509), acknowledges material and pervasive errors in areas such as cohesion and rural development but argues that corrective measures and stable error rates justify discharge.
The Council's position reflects a trade-off between strict financial accountability and program continuity. While granting discharge signals confidence in the Commission's corrective actions, it may draw criticism from those demanding tighter oversight. The recommendation is non-binding; Parliament will make the final decision.
The European Commission benefits from reduced reputational risk and operational continuity, though it faces increased scrutiny. EU taxpayers may question fund effectiveness, but corrective measures are noted. Member States managing shared funds face pressure to improve controls. Beneficiaries of EU funds avoid payment delays.
The European Parliament's Budgetary Control Committee will hold hearings with Commissioners before a plenary vote, expected in autumn 2026.