Mapping Best Practices On Transparency Integrity Accountability And Anti Corruption

This analysis explores examples of best practices from selected parliaments in the areas of transparency, integrity, accountability and anti-corruption, and reflects on the effectiveness of the analysed approaches and their possible applicability for the European Parliament (EP). Findings confirm the need for the establishment of an independent European Union (EU) ethics body, granted investigative and enforcement powers with full transparency of enquiries, decisions and/or proposals as a pre-condition for its effectiveness and regaining citizens' trust in the work of EU institutions. Stricter rules should be applied for Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) and EP staff regarding post-employment lobbying activities, along with more comprehensive and consistent disclosure of data on meetings with lobbyists, including foreign (third country) entities. In addition, mandatory training for all MEPs on integrity, transparency, accountability and anti-corruption standards should be introduced. Finally, more effective mechanisms of citizens and civil society engagement in the EP work should be introduced as a way of further strengthening the EP's accountability and improving its responsiveness to citizens' concerns.