Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1544268
MALTA has achieved much with European funds with var- ious projects of national scale carried out successfully. The absorption rate of EU funds has been second to none and the operations of Malta's manag- ing authorities have been given due credit on several occasions. The facts starkly contrast with the media statement made by the chairman of the Euro- pean Parliament's Budgetary Committee at the end of a re- cent visit. The statement was made without supporting facts and was not in line with the discussions that were held with government officials. As CEO of Servizzi Ewropej f'Malta, I was present at the meeting held at the premis- es of the managing authority alongside EU Funds Minister Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi and Permanent Secretary Jonathan Vassallo along other senior of- ficials. I feel compelled to pub- licly state that the claims at- tributed to that meeting were, quite simply, never expressed. At no point during the engage- ment did members of the com- mittee raise the level of concern suggested in the reports of the press conference; nor did they present Malta as a jurisdiction failing in its stewardship of Eu- ropean funds. On the contrary, the tone and substance of the discussion reflected a markedly different reality. The chairman of the committee explicitly acknowl- edged that Malta is perform- ing well in its management of EU-funded programmes. In fact, it was clearly stated that approximately 99% of projects are being implemented effec- tively and in line with estab- lished regulatory frameworks. This is not a marginal point; it is a fundamental one that speaks directly to Malta's cred- ibility and competence in this critical area. While scrutiny and accountability are essen- tial pillars of any democratic system particularly in the man- agement of public funds, it is equally important that such scrutiny is grounded in factu- al accuracy and faithful rep- resentation of discussions held at official fora. It is therefore deeply concern- ing that, despite having had the opportunity to engage directly, transparently, and construc- tively with national authorities, certain narratives are now be- ing advanced publicly that do not align with what was actual- ly discussed. Constructive crit- icism is always welcome and necessary. However, it must be delivered in a manner that is consistent, evidence-based, and raised through the appro- priate channels when dialogue is taking place. Malta's EU funds adminis- tration is subject to one of the most rigorous oversight frame- works in the EU. This includes multiple layers of auditing, compliance checks, and perfor- mance reviews, both at nation- al and European levels. The systems in place are designed precisely to detect, prevent, and address any irregularities. The fact that the overwhelming majority of projects meet and exceed expectations is not inci- dental. It is the result of years of institutional strengthening, professionalisation, and a cul- ture of accountability. This does not mean that the existing robust governance cannot be improved further. No system is perfect, and con- tinuous improvement remains a priority. Where issues arise, they are addressed with seri- ousness and urgency. However, it is important to distinguish between isolated concerns and systemic failure. The latter is simply not reflective of Malta's reality. From a broader perspective, we must also consider the im- plications of how such narra- tives are communicated. State- ments suggesting widespread misuse of EU funds, when not substantiated by the discus- sions they purport to reference, risk undermining public trust, not only in national institu- tions but also in the European funding framework itself. This is neither fair nor constructive, particularly for the many pub- lic officers, beneficiaries, and stakeholders who work dili- gently to ensure that EU funds deliver tangible results for our country. As Malta continues to posi- tion itself at the forefront of effective EU funds absorption and implementation, it is cru- cial that our discourse remains balanced, factual, and respon- sible. We must encourage open dialogue, but also insist on accuracy and integrity in how that dialogue is represented. Looking ahead, the focus remains clear—to continue strengthening governance, enhancing transparency, and maximising the impact of every euro invested in Malta's devel- opment. This is a responsibility we take seriously. Not only as administrators, but as custodi- ans of public trust. In this context, it is essential that all stakeholders whether institutional, political, or me- dia play their part responsibly. When opportunities for direct engagement arise, concerns should be voiced clearly and constructively. This ensures that issues can be addressed effectively, rather than being amplified after the fact in ways that risk misrepresentation. Malta's track record speaks for itself. It is one built on re- sults, accountability, and a commitment to excellence. It deserves to be evaluated fairly, and discussed honestly. 10 maltatoday | WEDNESDAY • 8 APRIL 2026 OPINION Setting the record straight: Accountability and Malta's strong EU funds track record Rodrick Zerafa CEO Servizzi Ewropej f'Malta It is one built on results, accountability, and a commitment to excellence. It deserves to be evaluated fairly, and discussed honestly.