Investigation tools and methods

Topic description

Scope:

The purchase and maintenance of investigation tools and methods used by beneficiaries in the fight against irregularities, fraud and corruption detrimental to the Union’s financial interests, in particular the fight against tobacco smuggling and/or counterfeiting. The Union's financial interests cover Union revenues (traditional own resources (ToR) and VAT) and expenditure, in particular under shared management (structural funds, agriculture) and research and technological development activities. The purchase of adapted transport equipment may be included, provided that an applicant clearly demonstrates that this contributes to the achievement of the Programme's objectives. The purchase of equipment for updating existing tools with the latest telecommunication protocols also falls under this action. Specialised training to enable staff to operate these tools is included and is encouraged. Cross-border cooperation enabling the exchange of information and best practices, in particular at operational level is also encouraged.

The Commission will not provide support for the purchase of equipment only. The purchase of equipment must be part of a project that contributes to the achievement of the Programme's objectives and could, for example, include training actions for the beneficiary's staff to operate the purchased equipment.