Special Report 10/2024 – The recognition of professional qualifications in the EU – An essential mechanism, but used sparsely and inconsistently
While member states may set rules for access to professions, the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) guarantees the free movement of labour and services and freedom of establishment within the EU single market. In 2005, the European Parliament and the Council adopted a Directive on recognition of professional qualifications with the aim of preventing member states from imposing excessive conditions on citizens wishing to exercise these rights. The Court of Auditors examined how effectively the Commission ensured uniform application of the Directive. It was concluded that the recognition of professional qualifications in the EU is an essential mechanism but used sparsely and inconsistently for exercising the right to pursue a profession in another member state. The application of the Directive still has shortcomings and the information provided to citizens is not always reliable.
The Court of Auditors started work on the Special report on May 2023, with the draft report being submitted on early 2024. The final report was officially published on July 2024. The Special report provides a clear picture of the various provisions and use of tools available under the Directive by all the Member States.
Full version of the report can be access on the following Link – https://www.eca.europa.eu/en/publications/sr-2024-10