Multiple framework contract for studies in the field of the EU budget. The purpose of this framework contract is to set up a network of external experts that will provide the CoR with a rapid response capability, allowing broader consultation of local and regional players, offering CoR commissions the possibility of drawing up specific opinions on topics of current interest and enabling the CoR to draw on databases and knowledge built up by research centres or universities in the evaluation of policies.

The following are the indicative spheres of activity covered by this call for tenders (from the perspective of the local and regional authorities):

— multi-annual financial framework:

* EU own-resources,

* performance-based budgeting,

— annual EU budget:

* implementation of the EU budget,

* fiscal capacity of the EU,

* discharge procedure including protection of financial interest of the EU,

— local and regional finances (sub-national finances),

— Financial Regulation of the EU:

* audits and control requirements,

* accountability,

— financial instruments:

* synergies between different EU funding instruments.