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The ECA is poised to offer 'landscape reviews' on the risks to EU public financial management on EU accountability and audit arrangements, says Lazaros S. Lazarou, member of the ECA, in an essay included in a new report from ACCA.
Explaining developments in the ECA's role, Mr Lazarou refers to the ECA’s 2013-2017 strategy which states that: "The ECA will use its unique powers and perspective and the knowledge, expertise and partnerships it has built up over 35 years to contribute. It will help other parties in the EU accountability process to identify risks to EU accountability and facilitate their use of audit results; enhance its professionalism by contributing to and applying new audit standards and good practices; further streamline its processes for producing its reports and opinions; and improve its performance and accountability framework."
Mr Lazarou joins other public audit experts in this report, who all offer an upbeat reflection of the auditor’s role in accountability and improving public service from Australia to Jamaica, Scotland to Bhutan. The writers speak about improving public engagement and strengthening scrutiny and public service effectiveness.
Mr Lazarou concludes: "External audit is an important element in the governance structure of the EU. The ECA is addressing the challenges from developments in the EU public sector environment and will continue to contribute effectively in strengthening EU democratic accountability, building EU citizen’s trust."