Starting in 2008, the OECD and the European Commission have worked together to assess the capacities for effective regulatory management within the EU and across Member States. Since then, challenges have escalated, making trusted, evidence-based, internationally co-ordinated, and well-implemented and administered regulation all the more urgent.
Against the backdrop of a global health and economic crisis, the 2022 Better Regulation Practices across the European Union report underscores the crucial role of regulation in enabling resilience and recovery. With the right regulatory settings, governments can achieve their policy goals, strengthening people’s trust in public institutions and the capacity of governments to address a growing number of concerns, such as improving the well-being of citizens, increasing inclusion, and driving a greener recovery.
Together, the European Institutions and the Member States, are ultimately responsible for the regulations that govern nearly 500 million people. It reinforces the importance of the EU’s commitment to a clear and stable Better Regulation framework.
Using the OECD Indicators of Regulatory Policy and Governance, the report tracks progress in better regulation across EU Member States since the first edition in 2019. This latest edition shows EU Member States’ commitment to the effective use of regulatory management tools such as impact assessment, stakeholder engagement and ex post evaluation. Nevertheless, scope for improvement remains, especially in ensuring that regulations keep pace with change.
A focus on proportionality is crucial for making sure that policy makers consider the most relevant alternatives before regulating and fully understand the expected impacts of rules, including those that may be felt across borders. Engaging with those directly affected by regulations is key to improving policies, boosting trust in government action. Ultimately, better regulation helps ensure that policies deliver the promised benefits to citizens.
The EU already stands out for its uptake and commitment to better regulation. Ensuring integrated approaches to the design, delivery, and review of regulations will support the seamless functioning of the single market. By monitoring and sharing country practices, it is hoped that the report will encourage further progress towards international best practices throughout the EU. We trust that this report will serve as a timely reminder of the benefits of working together on quality regulations, whilst improving opportunities and outcomes for all EU citizens.
