“Accept everything that comes and that which escapes with the same calmness that you embrace the natural changes of harsh days and fair days” (Eça de Queirós, Os Maias, 1888). The European Ombudswoman quoted these words when taking office, not as a call for resignation, but for steadiness and principled action. However, we have seen in recent proposals how the European Commission has invoked urgency to bypass important steps of the lawmaking process, such as public consultations and impact assessments.
In this episode we welcome the Professor Teresa Anjinho, the European Ombudswoman, to discuss the recent inquiry she closed in June 2026. In this file, she concluded the Commission had incurred in some shortcomings when enacting legislation concerning corporate sustainability due diligence (Omnibus I), the Common Agricultural Policy, and countering migrant smuggling. We also take a look at the risks associated with this modus operandi, the importance of participatory democracy, and the challenges to keep a balance between competitiveness and good administration.
This podcast was recorded and produced by the Academic Assistants of the Law Department. All views and opinions expressed are those of the individual participants and do not necessarily reflect the views of the College of Europe.
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