[toyg]

Abuse exists in pretty much any aspect of procurement, from building roads with inflated contractor prices to producing "analysis" from consultants who happen to be friends with the relevant minister. The private sector is not immune either, with plenty of shareholders money being funneled to the sales guy with the best golf routine.

Part of the solution is better law enforcement, which would include whistleblowing on your corrupt friends. Part is better oversight - and here you should bring it up with your national government, since EU authorities typically have little power to impose that once money has been disbursed to local entities.