Civil Society Europe’s Contribution to the Commission’s Call for Evidence on Better Regulation
Simplification cannot be pursued at all costs, it must stay firmly anchored to fundamental rights, sustainable development and democratic principles. The European Commission’s ‘Better Regulation’ guidelines set out the standards that should guide the preparation of new proposals and the management of existing legislation. These guidelines are not merely procedural, since they shape how EU initiatives serve people and society.
At a time of growing disinformation and foreign influence, it is crucial that the EU’s regulation system rests on robust, evidence-based policymaking, grounded in independent scientific input and meaningful participation. Such transparent and comprehensive approach ensures that our democracy withstands challenges, threats, and crises — an objective the EU is committed to achieve.
CSE has responded to the European Commission’s Call for Evidence on the revision of the Better Regulation, calling on safeguarding solid evidence-based policy making with independent scientific input and strong mechanisms of participation, as part of the democratic resilience that the EU wants to achieve.
CSE has highlighted several paramount points:
- Effective policymaking requires meaningful involvement of citizens and civil society,
- Smarter public consultations should mean better quality, not fewer voices,
- An open, regular and structured civil dialogue must be implemented,
- “Simplicity by design” must not undermine participation or rights,
- Civic space impact assessments must be integrated into Better Regulation.