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Pericles 2028-2034: Exchange, assistance and training for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting
Pericles 2028 2034: Exchange, assistance and training for the protection of the euro against counterfeiting
Harriet Kennedy, Members' Research Service
Summary
The Pericles programme funds staff exchanges, seminars, training and studies to protect the euro against counterfeiting. On 3 September 2025, the Commission tabled its proposal to establish the fifth edition of the Pericles programme (Pericles V) as part of the multiannual financial framework (MFF) for the 2028‑2034 period. The programme is expected to be extended to Member States outside the euro area on the basis of a parallel Council regulation.
Statement of purpose
First‑reading report: A10‑0256/2026; Committee responsible: LIBE; Rapporteur: Michael McNamara (Renew, Ireland). For further information see our 'EU Legislation in progress' briefing.
Background
The Pericles programme has supported the protection of the euro against counterfeiting since 2002. As the Commission explains, counterfeits harm citizens and businesses, who are not reimbursed even if they accept them in good faith, and weaken trust in genuine euro cash. The current edition of the Pericles programme, Pericles IV, will run until the end of 2027. An interim evaluation concluded that it was generally 'effective, efficient, sustainable and remains relevant in adapting to evolving threats'. The European Central Bank (ECB) considers the Pericles programme to be a useful contribution in the fight against the counterfeiting of euro banknotes and coins.
European Commission proposal
The Commission's proposal for Pericles V largely maintains the objectives of Pericles IV, while adding references to potential future threats, such as those to the digital euro, as well as to the threats and investigational opportunities presented by artificial intelligence. The proposal introduces a number of new features including the possibility of associating third countries, pooling resources from outside the EU budget and using indirect as well as direct management to implement funding. It sets an indicative financial envelope of €7 million in current prices. Compared with Pericles IV, the proposal does not retain certain provisions concerning reporting to Parliament and the adoption of work programmes.
European Parliament position
The Parliament's Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE) adopted its first-reading report on Pericles V on 28 September 2026. The Committee on Budgets (BUDG) decidednot to give an opinion. The LIBE report proposes broadening the programme's objectives to cover other emerging threats and sets the programme envelope at €7.811 million in current prices. It also proposes requiring that the Commission implement the programme in cooperation with Member States and avoid duplication with the activities of the ECB, Europol and Eurojust. A new provision on monitoring and reporting would require the Commission to report annually on the results of Pericles V to Parliament, the Council and the ECB.
Classification
Policy areas: Area of Freedom, Security and Justice
Regions: European Union
Committees: Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE)
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Disclaimer
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