On 8 April 2008, the EIB Board of Directors approved (i) the Anti-Fraud Policy and (ii) the Procedures for the Conduct of Investigations. The Anti-Fraud Policy replaces the earlier "EIB Guidelines on Fighting Fraud and Corruption" from May 2006 and the Investigation Procedures codify existing rules, procedures and practices.
Speaking after the Board meeting, President Maystadt noted the strong support from the Board for the Anti-Fraud Policy and said: " It is our responsibility to ensure the proceeds of EIB loans are not mis-used and this policy therefore reflects our determination to be ever vigilant in seeking to combat fraud and corruption in EIB-financed activities."
The Policy states EIB's commitment to "zero tolerance" of corruption, fraud, collusion, coercion, money laundering and the financing of terrorism in EIB activities, requires EIB members of staff and EIB's business partners to adhere to the highest standards of integrity, introduces the harmonised definitions from the IFI Anti-Corruption Task Force's Uniform Framework Agreement, and describes the measures EIB takes to combat fraud and corruption. The Investigation Procedures describe the process for the conduct of investigations by the Inspectorate General.
The Anti-Fraud Policy and Investigation Procedures were the subject of a public consultation process. A report on how this public consultation process was conducted and the extent to which stakeholder submissions were taken into account will be posted on the Bank's website for the next six months. After that period, the Report will be available from the Communication Department (info@eib.org).
Comments and questions on the Bank's Anti-Fraud Policy and Investigation Procedures can be submitted through a dedicated mail box (infopol@eib.org).
Documentation
- Procedures for the Conduct of Investigations by the Inspectorate General of the EIB Group
- Consultation Report, Annex 1 and Annex 2