The complainant asked the European External Action Service (EEAS) to grant public access to the 2022 audit report of annual accounts of the European Peace Facility, as well as the methodology for reimbursing equipment donated to Ukraine. The EEAS identified two documents: it refused access to the first and gave access to parts of the second. In redacting certain information, it cited exceptions under the EU legislation on public access to documents, arguing that disclosure could undermine military and defence matters, international relations and the EU decision-making process.

Following an inspection of the documents and a meeting with the EEAS, the Ombudsman found that there was no manifest error in the EEAS’ decision to refuse public access. As a result, she closed the inquiry with a finding of no maladministration.