The European Court of Auditors (ECA) is preparing to commemorate its 50th anniversary with a ceremony at its Luxembourg headquarters on July 1. Established in 1975, the ECA serves as the financial watchdog for the European Union, ensuring that public funds are used appropriately.
The Treaty of Brussels, signed on July 22, 1975, can be considered the founding document of the ECA. This treaty led to the creation of a new body that began operations in October 1977 in Luxembourg. Hans Kutscher, then President of the European Court of Justice, described it as the “financial conscience” of the European Communities.
Initially, financial oversight was managed by a small audit board established when the Communities were founded in 1958. As financial responsibilities grew and the European Parliament assumed budgetary control, it became evident that this board lacked adequate powers and resources.
The Maastricht Treaty, effective from November 1, 1993, elevated the ECA to an official EU institution alongside the Parliament, Council, and Commission. This status enhanced its independence and authority. The treaty also tasked the ECA with issuing an annual statement on the reliability and legality of EU accounts and transactions.
Over time, various EU treaties have expanded and confirmed the ECA’s role to meet evolving audit needs. From its initial composition of nine members and 120 staff in 1977, it has grown to include 27 members and approximately 950 staff representing all member states.
In celebration of its milestone anniversary on July 1, high-ranking guests including the Grand Duke of Luxembourg will attend events at ECA offices located on Luxembourg’s Kirchberg plateau.