Press Release: Ombudsman makes eight proposals to Commission to avoid fundamental rights violations in multi-billion euro ‘cohesion’ policy

The European Ombudsman, Emily O'Reilly, released a statement in which eight proposals to the European Commission were made to help it ensure that the 350 billion euro 2014-2020 'European Structural and Investment Funds' do not support Member State cohesion programmes that breach fundamental rights.

The cohesion policy aims to create jobs, reduce poverty and tackle social exclusion, particularly in the Union's rural and disadvantaged areas. While Member States are primarily responsible - selecting projects, making payments and handling complaints - the Ombudsman considered that the Commission cannot abdicate its human rights obligations just because it does not directly manage the funds.

ESO: Background information: EU 'cohesion' policy: Ombudsman investigates protection of fundamental rights http://www.europeansources.info/record/press-release-eu-cohesion-policy-ombudsman-investigates-protection-of-fundamental-rights/

EurActiv, 18.05.15: Ombudsman fears EU's Cohesion policy breaches fundamental rights http://www.euractiv.com/sections/eu-priorities-2020/ombudsman-fears-eus-cohesion-policy-breaches-fundamental-rights-314640

Politico, 18.05.15: Ombudsman claims discrimination in EU projects http://www.politico.eu/article/ombudsman-goes-after-discrimination-in-eu-projects/

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