Journalists push back against the EU Commission's lack of transparency
A coalition of journalists from Brussels and across Europe has launched an open letter accusing the European Commission of undermining transparency. They criticise severe delays in responding to requests for access to documents and new internal rules restricting access to legal and regulatory files - measures introduced early in Ursula von der Leyen's second term and now facing legal challenged.
The letter, addressed to Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič, criticises the Commission's opaque legislative process, despite the fact that transparency is a legal obligation under EU treaties. This lack of openness hampers journalists' ability to investigate lobbying and follow policy-making.
The signatories share the European Ombudsman's concerns about chronic delays - often lasting more than a year - despite a legal deadline of 30 days. They call for full and timely access to legislative documents and respect for EU transparency rules.
The letter urges the Commission to reform access procedures and invites dialogue with journalists. It is still open for signatures and will be submitted by the end of the month.
Ursula von der Leyen, Commission President (CDU), and Maroš Šefčovič, EU Commissioner for Trade and Transparency © Philipp von Ditfurth/dpa
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