Better Regulation: Joining forces to make better EU laws and to prepare for the future

30 Apr 2021 11:36 AM

The Commission yesterday adopted a Communication on Better Regulation, proposing several improvements to the EU law-making process. To foster Europe's recovery, it is more important than ever to legislate as efficiently as possible, while making EU laws better adapted to tomorrow's needs.

Maroš Šefčovič, Vice-President for Interinstitutional Relations and Foresight, yesterday said:

“The Commission already has one of the best Better Regulation systems in the world but we still need to do more. Therefore, we are stepping up efforts to simplify EU legislation and reduce its burden, while making better use of strategic foresight and supporting sustainability and digitalisation. To succeed, however, all stakeholders must work together on high-quality EU policymaking that will translate into a stronger, more resilient Europe.''

Cooperation among the EU institutions, with Member States and stakeholders, including social partners, businesses and civil society, is key. To help face current and future challenges, the Commission has proposed the following actions:

• Removing obstacles and red tape that slow down investments and building of 21st century infrastructure, working with Member States, regions and key stakeholders.
• Simplifying public consultations by introducing a single ‘Call for Evidence', on the improved Have Your Say portal.
• Introducing a ‘one in, one out' approach, to minimise burdens for citizens and businesses by paying special attention to the implications and costs of applying legislation, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises. This principle ensures that any newly introduced burdens are offset by removing equivalent burdens in the same policy area.
• Mainstreaming the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, to ensure that all legislative proposals contribute to the 2030 sustainable development agenda.
• Improving the way in which Better Regulation addresses and supports sustainability and digital transformation.
• Integrating strategic foresight into policymaking to ensure it is fit for the future, by for instance, taking into account emerging megatrends in the green, digital, geopolitical and socio-economic contexts.

Click here for the full press release