The Consolidated Annual Activity Report also known as the ‘CAAR’ is a comprehensive overview document prepared annually by all EU institutions. It provides a detailed account of their activities, performance, and resource management over the past year. CAARs are usually prepared and published by June of the next year.

The primary purpose of the CAAR is to ensure transparency and accountability of EU institutions towards the general public. It serves as a key tool for internal and external stakeholders to assess the effectiveness and efficiency of the institution’s operations.

Standard contents of a CAAR report:

• Overview of the institution’s strategic objectives and achievements.
• Detailed performance indicators and results.
• Financial statements, including budget execution and resource allocation.
• Risk management and internal control systems.
• Audits and evaluations conducted during the year.
• Key operational challenges and future outlook.

The CAAR is crucial for maintaining the integrity and accountability of EU institutions. It enables stakeholders, including the European Parliament, the Council, and the public, to scrutinise the institution’s performance and financial management. By providing a transparent and detailed account of activities, the CAAR helps build trust and ensures that EU institutions remain accountable to their mandates and the citizens they serve.

A CAAR is prepared by the institution itself and is not validated by external parties such as the European Court of Auditors.