The speech
Does the EU need an independent Ethics body?
Yes of course it does.
In fact, we should ask ourselves why don’t we already have one?
Especially given the scandals we have seen, also before Qatar and Marocco Gate.
And given the size and regulatory power of the EU.
I think it is clear that we DO need an entity that can Advice, Monitor, and Act on the many potential misuse, fraud or corruption facing us now, and in the future.
But, what does such an entity need for it to make an actual difference?
It needs three clear things:
- It needs to be truly independent – it cannot bow to pressure from for instance the European Commission or EU countries.
- It needs to have real powers of investigation, and sufficient resources to carry them out. It should not have to ask permission to use them.
- It needs to ensure that Implementation actually happens and that sanctions are applied. Rules that are not enforced are no good.
From the Left we have long called for this, as has many others.
Sadly, the Right and their friends have always managed ways around real reform.
The time for bad excuses has run out.
More about transparency reform
You can also read Nikolaj Villumsen’s commentary from January: Transparency reform in the EU-Parliament – too little, too late?
If you read Danish you can access his piece Qatargate viser, at Bruxelles har behov for reformer on the Altinget website.
