Global health initiatives have seen a rise in support, while EU bilateral aid to partner countries has decreased. Auditors have criticized significant management costs and highlighted issues with equipment and medicine distribution. The maintenance of donated equipment is lacking, and sustaining projects after external aid ends is a challenge.
The European Court of Auditors has published a report today noting shortcomings in the allocation of EU aid to partner countries’ health systems. Coordination and sustainability risks can impede the effectiveness of funded projects.
The EU’s health support in partner countries contributes to the goal of reducing extreme poverty. Bilateral assistance to partner countries has decreased over time, while support through global health initiatives has increased significantly, especially in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
George-Marius Hyzler, the ECA Member responsible for the audit, stated, “We have identified several issues in EU funding for health systems in selected partner countries. Urgent improvements are needed to enhance the effectiveness of EU funds, particularly in allocation criteria, reducing management costs, and ensuring project sustainability.”
The auditors analyzed projects in Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Zimbabwe. They found issues with needs analysis, coordination, availability of medicines, and high management costs. Sustainability concerns arise from the lack of clear transition and exit strategies after donor funding scaling down.
The European Commission should engage in discussions on health financing, transition strategies, and better alignment of partner countries’ needs with EU health aid. The auditors recommend rebalancing funding allocation between global initiatives, and regional and bilateral support, and improving visibility of EU aid for targeted populations.
For the full report, visit eca.europa.eu.
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