The Commission describes these sessions as technical exchanges designed to minimize administrative burdens, arguing they are exempt from public scrutiny because they prioritize factual data over political debate. However, the Corporate Europe Observatory argues this framing masks a significant democratic deficit. Kenneth Haar of the watchdog group warned that officials are using this mechanism to coordinate sweeping deregulation alongside the industries affected, ensuring public awareness occurs only after policies are finalized.
EU Ombudsman probes secretive corporate lobbying sessions
European Ombudsman Teresa Anjinho has launched an inquiry into the European Commission’s use of closed-door “Reality Checks,” a consultation process that bypasses standard transparency rules. The probe follows a complaint from the Corporate Europe Observatory, which alleges these meetings facilitate backroom deregulation talks between officials and industry lobbyists.
An investigation by the observatory revealed that business interests frequently dominate these gatherings, accounting for up to 100 percent of participants in certain sessions. These private meetings have addressed high-stakes policy areas, including artificial intelligence, defense, steel, and trade agreements. By requesting internal documentation and a formal written response, the Ombudsman is now testing the Commission’s assertion that such industry-led consultations remain strictly non-political.
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