The goal of this highly-practical course/workshop extending over two full days is to present:

• The most important changes regarding the audit of the ESF introduced in the current programming period compared to that of the 2007–2013 period;
• The main differences between audits of the ESF and the ERDF;
• The main elements of the ESF audit and how to plan an efficient one;
• The main errors and irregularities in projects co-funded by the ESF;
• ESF audit findings in different Member States, including real case studies;
• Fraud in ESF co-financed projects, with real examples presented by an OLAF expert

After the presentations, you will work in small groups with experts on practical case studies.

The unique feature of the course is the combination of the experience of audit experts from Member States, the European Commission and the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF).

How will it help you?
The course is very practical and interactive. All presentations given by audit experts from the public sector, the European Commissionand the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) include concrete examples and real case studies.
Each presentation will be followed by a workshop in small working groups, during which, with the direct involvement of the EU experts, you will learn about the main errors and irregularities in ESF-financed projects, and the way ESF audits should be performed.

Who will benefit most?

• Beneficiaries of ESF and IPA II
• Managing authorities, certifying authorities, audit authorities and intermediate bodies
• Independent auditors dealing with or interested in ESF-funded projects and programmes.

What will you be able to do with what you learn?
You will learn in practical ways about the main errors and irregularities in ESF co-financed projects and about the way ESF audits should be performed.