Openness in the legislative process in the European Union

Abstract:

The text explores the extent to which the European Union's (EU) legislative process is open and transparent, beginning with a discussion of the concept of legislation in the EU, noting the lack of clarity over the precise meaning of "legislative act" in the Council's Rules of Procedure Art.7. It examines, in relation to the Council and the European Parliament: public meetings; publication of votes, explanations of votes, and minutes; and rules requiring public access to documents. It also highlights the secrecy of the Conciliation Committee stage of the co-decision procedure. Suggests that more could be done to improve openness, particularly by the Council.