Anti-fraud policy

ANTI-FRAUD POLICY

The Managing Authority (MA), Joint Secretariat (JS), Latvian National Authority and Lithuanian National Authority of the Interreg V-A Latvia – Lithuania Programme 2014 – 2020 (Programme) is committed to maintain high legal, ethical and moral standards, to adhere to the principles of integrity, objectivity and honesty and supports transparent financial and operational management of the Programme and its projects. The Programme has a zero-tolerance policy to fraud. The objective of this policy is to promote a culture which deters fraudulent activity and to facilitate the prevention and detection of fraud and the development of procedures which will aid in the investigation of fraud and related offences and which will ensure that such cases are dealt with timely and appropriately.

The term “fraud” is commonly used to describe a wide range of misconducts including theft, corruption, embezzlement, bribery, forgery, misrepresentation, collusion, money laundering and concealment of material facts. It often involves the use of deception to make a personal gain for oneself, a connected person or a third party, or a loss for another – intention is the key element that distinguishes fraud from irregularity. Fraud does not just have a potential financial impact, but it can cause damage to the reputation of an organisation responsible for managing EU funds effectively and efficiently.

Corruption is the abuse of power for private gain.

Conflict of interests exists where the impartial and objective exercise of the official functions of a person are compromised for reasons involving family, emotional life, political or national affinity, economic interest or any other shared interest with e.g. an applicant for or a recipient of EU funds.

Responsibilities and anti-fraud measures

The MA/JS has procedures in place for investigating wrongdoings which might lead to irregularities, as well as for reporting suspected fraud cases, both internally and to the European Anti-Fraud Office.

In case of suspicions of fraud, it will be investigated in mutual cooperation between the MA/JS, Member States and the European Commission where necessary. All the relevant national procedures will be used to ensure that appropriate investigation and prosecution takes place.

Reporting about Fraud, corruption or wrongdoing

In order to prevent and detect acts of fraud and any other wrongdoing which might have a negative influence on the general budget of the European Union, Programme or projects implementation, the MA/JS supports whistleblowing.

If you wish to report suspicion of fraud or wrongdoing to the Programme MA/JS, please use the reporting template and send the relevant information to the following email address: latlit@varam.gov.lv or by regular post to address Peldu street 25, Riga, LV-1494, Latvia.

All reporting templates received regarding suspected fraud or wrongdoing will be taken into account by the MA/JS and investigated accordingly. The identity of the whistleblower is protected.