Press Release: Setting the highest standards: The Commission proposes an Advisory Group on Standards in Public Life, an improved disciplinary system and a Whistleblowers’ Charter

On 29.11.00, the Commission proposed a set of three measures aimed at maintaining the highest standards of integrity and public service in the Commission and the other European Institutions. First, the establishment of an Advisory Group on Standards in Public Life will provide independent guidance for the EU institutions on appropriate standards of behaviour at all levels of the organisations. Second, new proposals for 'Whistleblowing' will clarify the duty of all members of staff to responsibly report concerns about wrongdoing, will provide a choice of channels inside and outside the Commission through which they can discharge that duty with the assurance of thorough attention, and will ensure career security when those channels are used. Third, a modernised disciplinary system in the Commission will ensure greater professionalism, promptness, consistency and effectiveness whilst sustaining standards of fairness to officials and to the Institution.

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