The European Union can and must become a global leader in open, transparent and ethical public administration, according to the European Ombudsman, Emily O'Reilly.

Speaking at an event to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Office, Ms O’Reilly said:

“The pandemic has forcefully reminded us of the vital need for excellent public services and for the creation of maximum public trust in their administration. Governing without that trust impedes the necessary and effective responses to the virus.

She added: “Transparency and openness are not abstract concepts. When they are lost or absent, the fabric of the social contract between those who govern and those who are governed is damaged, and the consequences are negative for both.”

She noted that while no administration is perfect, the EU administration has high standards and can use its significant soft power to