The European Union, often celebrated as a bastion of democracy, harbors a troubling paradox at its core. Decisions that shape the lives of 447 million Europeans are routinely made in secrecy, far removed from public scrutiny. At the center of this opaque machinery is the General Secretariat of the Council (GSC), a sprawling administrative body that drafts compromises, organizes meetings, and provides legal advice to the Council of the EU. It may appear as a mere support structure, but its influence over EU policymaking is profound—and deeply problematic.

The GSC’s operations are shrouded in secrecy. Its working groups and committees negotiate laws behind closed doors, labeling critical documents as "limité"—a designation that restricts public access and delays publication until dissent has been neutralized. This practice violates rulings by the European Court of Justice (CJEU), which explicitly stated that legislative documents cannot be withheld under vague claims of sensitivity. Yet, secrecy persists.

Consider the 2017 EU budget negotiations, which allocated €157 billion in public funds. Not a single document detailing member state disagreements was made available to national parliaments or citizens. As one Council official bluntly put it:

"If everything had to be public, we’d just discuss matters over breakfast. Efficiency demands confidentiality."

This defense of secrecy misses the point entirely. Efficiency cannot trump accountability in a democracy. Without access to draft legislation, mechanisms like the "yellow card" procedure—which allows national parliaments to challenge EU proposals—are rendered meaningless. When 11 member states raised objections to revisions in the 2016 Posted Workers Directive, their concerns were dismissed outright despite evidence that the law would depress wages for migrant workers by up to 23% and enable "social dumping" through loopholes in labor protections. For instance, Article 3(3) of the Posted Workers Directive (2016/1234/EU): Exempted transport sector workers from minimum wage guarantees, affecting 2.3 million truck drivers across Europe, while article 9: Allowed host countries to bypass collective bargaining agreements, slashing overtime pay by up to 32% in Germany and France.

The Human Cost of Secretive Decision-Making

The consequences of this opacity are not abstract—they are devastatingly real for millions across Europe, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Take the austerity measures implemented after the 2008 financial crisis. Negotiated in secretive Council meetings, these policies slashed public health spending across Europe, leaving low-income households, migrants, and the elderly with reduced access to healthcare services. In the UK alone, austerity-driven privatization of care homes led to widespread service cuts that disproportionately harmed disabled residents—a crisis affecting over 100,000 people.

More recently, fiscal rules agreed upon by the Council under Regulation 2024/567 require countries with debt exceeding 60% of GDP to reduce social spending by 0.5% annually. These rules make it nearly impossible for most member states to fund critical social investments like healthcare or poverty alleviation programs—policies citizens overwhelmingly prioritize according to Eurobarometer polls.

Similarly troubling are reforms to the Common European Asylum System (CEAS), negotiated in unrecorded working groups:

• The Accelerated Procedures Regulation mandates vulnerability assessments for LGBTQ+ asylum seekers within just 72 hours—a timeline experts warn is insufficient for identifying trauma victims.

• "Safe third country" lists now permit returns to countries like Turkey and Tunisia despite documented violence against refugees there, overriding UNHCR objections without public consultation.

These laws were crafted in darkness but felt painfully by those most vulnerable—workers exploited under weakened protections, refugees denied safety, and citizens deprived of essential services under austerity measures.

Regulatory Capture and Conflicts of Interest

The GSC’s opacity also creates fertile ground for conflicts of interest and regulatory capture—where industry insiders shape policy outcomes to benefit corporate interests at the expense of ordinary citizens.

A glaring example lies within DG FISMA, the Directorate-General responsible for financial regulation. One-third of departing heads from this department joined banks or lobbying firms they previously regulated, while two recent Finance Commissioners moved into high-profile roles at Goldman Sachs and BlackRock within months of leaving office. This revolving door culture has tangible consequences:

Take the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR/2024/89), which was quietly watered down during negotiations. Nearly 80% of fossil fuel investments were exempted from mandatory climate risk reporting requirements, while penalties for ESG violations were slashed by 40% compared to initial drafts—a clear victory for corporate interests over environmental accountability.

Corporate Europe Observatory’s Margarida Silva captured this dynamic succinctly:

"Regulatory capture isn’t corruption—it’s career planning."

Accountability Theater: Reforms That Fail

Despite attempts at transparency reform, key mechanisms remain toothless or intentionally sabotaged:

• The Transparency Register excludes Council negotiations entirely and features glaring gaps in corporate lobbying disclosures; compliance rates remain abysmally low across member states like Germany and Cyprus.

• The Whistleblower Directive (EU/2023/205), intended to protect those who report misconduct, has seen implementation stalled in most member states—leaving whistleblowers vulnerable to retaliation.

Even European Ombudsman Emily O’Reilly has warned that negotiating behind closed doors risks alienating citizens and feeding negative sentiment toward the EU itself.

Who Bears Responsibility?

Accountability rests on several key actors who have failed to act decisively:

• Thérèse Blanchet, Secretary-General of the Council since 2022, has resisted implementing CJEU rulings requiring document disclosure despite mounting criticism from transparency advocates.

• National parliaments remain unable to effectively challenge decisions due to restricted access to legislative drafts—a systemic failure that undermines subsidiarity principles enshrined in EU treaties.

Democracy Demands Daylight

The EU’s legitimacy rests on its ability to uphold democratic principles—but as long as its legislative process remains cloaked in secrecy, those principles will continue eroding. From gutted worker protections under the Posted Workers Directive to lethal asylum reforms under CEAS revisions, decisions made behind closed doors have tangible consequences for ordinary Europeans.

As Ombudsman O’Reilly remarked: "Negotiating behind closed doors risks alienating citizens." But alienation is not inevitable—it can be reversed if institutions like the GSC embrace transparency as non-negotiable rather than optional.

Until figures like Blanchet face accountability for defying transparency rulings—and until systemic reforms dismantle this opaque machinery—the EU will remain captive to what critics call "breakfast-table governance," serving elites while leaving everyone else hungry for justice.

Democracy demands daylight—and it is up to European citizens and their representatives to demand it before it is too late.

In our rapidly evolving world, citizens are demanding more transparency and accountability from their governments than ever before. Public sector institutions are keenly aware of this shift and are striving to improve how they communicate and engage with the public. However, the path to achieving these goals is fraught with challenges. As the founder of Accountable Democracy, I’m here to help institutions navigate these complexities and become more effective in their mission to serve the public.

Understanding the Challenges

Navigating Complex Communication

One of the biggest hurdles for public sector organizations is managing communication effectively. With numerous departments and a wide array of stakeholders, ensuring consistent and clear messaging can be daunting. Miscommunications can lead to public distrust and inefficiencies within the organization.

Bridging the Transparency Gap

Despite best intentions, many governments struggle to provide complete and accurate information about their operations. This lack of transparency can erode public trust and make it difficult for citizens to hold their governments accountable.

Strengthening Accountability Mechanisms

Without strong accountability frameworks, it's challenging for governments to demonstrate that their decisions are in the public's best interest. Institutions need robust systems to track performance and ensure responsible financial management.

Overcoming Resistance to Change

Change is never easy, especially in large organizations. New transparency and accountability measures can be met with resistance, as they often require shifts in culture and practice.

Embracing Technology

In an age where technology can significantly enhance transparency, many public sector institutions still lag behind in adopting digital tools that could improve citizen engagement and operational efficiency.

How Accountable Democracy Can Make a Difference

At Accountable Democracy, we believe that every challenge presents an opportunity for growth and improvement. Here’s how we can help:

Crafting Effective Communication Strategies

We work closely with institutions to develop communication strategies that resonate with both internal teams and the public. By leveraging various channels—from traditional media to social platforms—we ensure that messages are clear, consistent, and engaging.

Promoting Transparency Initiatives

Our team assists in implementing systems like accrual-based accounting, which provides a clearer financial picture. We also support the creation of open data platforms that make government information accessible and understandable for everyone.

Building Robust Accountability Frameworks

We help design comprehensive accountability mechanisms that include performance metrics and regular reporting processes. These frameworks not only enhance transparency but also foster a culture of continuous improvement.

Facilitating Change Management

Change doesn’t have to be intimidating. We guide institutions through the process, offering training programs that build internal support for new initiatives. Our goal is to create a culture where transparency is embraced rather than feared.

Leveraging Technology for Greater Engagement

From blockchain solutions for financial transparency to digital platforms for civic engagement, we help institutions harness technology to connect more effectively with citizens. These tools not only improve transparency but also empower citizens to participate actively in governance.

Enhancing Integrity and Anti-Corruption Efforts

We assist in crafting anti-corruption strategies that include risk assessments and policy reforms. By establishing clear reporting mechanisms, we help build a government environment where integrity is paramount.

By addressing these areas, Accountable Democracy empowers public sector institutions to overcome their challenges in transparency and accountability. Our tailored solutions are designed not just to meet current demands but also to anticipate future needs, ensuring that governments remain responsive and trustworthy partners in serving their communities.

The journey towards greater accountability is ongoing, but with the right support and strategies, public institutions can make significant strides toward becoming more open, effective, and trusted by their citizens. 

Join Accountable Democracy's "The Way I Wish to See It" Writing Competition

Accountable Democracy is thrilled to announce an exciting opportunity for young writers with a passion for politics and social change. Our new monthly competition, "The Way I Wish to See It," invites aspiring writers aged 16 to 27 to express their visions for a better world through poetry, prose, and flash fiction.

About the Competition

This initiative seeks to harness the creativity and insights of the younger generation, encouraging them to articulate their perspectives on politics, international development, and their relationship with governmental and development institutions. It's an opportunity not just to be heard, but to influence and inspire.

Prizes and Opportunities

Each month, participants have the chance to win €150, with their works prominently featured on the Accountable Democracy website and in our Substack newsletter BarnacleGooseChicks. This platform not only highlights their talents but also amplifies their voices in the corridors of power and influence.

As the competition progresses throughout the year, the top submissions from each month will be compiled into an anthology. This collection will be distributed to major development organizations and relevant governmental bodies worldwide, serving as a testament to the thoughts and aspirations of today’s youth.

Themes and Inspiration

The competition encourages submissions that reflect on how young individuals wish to interact with public institutions and envision a future marked by peace, justice, and positivity. Whether it's a poem that captures the essence of democratic engagement or a short story that explores the complexities of international development, we want to hear how you, the youth, wish to reshape the world.

How to Participate

Ready to make your voice heard? Submit your entries through the following Google Forms link: [Submit Your Entry]. Remember, creativity and originality are key—don't be afraid to bring a fresh perspective to the topics at hand.

Spread the Word

Know someone who might be interested? Share this opportunity with them! It’s a chance for young voices to contribute meaningfully to discussions that will shape the future of our global society.

"The Way I Wish to See It" isn't just a competition; it's a movement towards a more inclusive and responsive democratic process. By giving young people a platform to express their views, Accountable Democracy hopes to foster a generation that is not only well-informed and engaged but also empowered to make a difference. Join us in reimagining the future—your words have the power to inspire change.

Link to join

https://forms.gle/kfjFQ349rMg1Nziy8 

A Call for Transparency, Accountability, and Empowerment

In recent times, the essence of democracy has been tested through various events around the globe, notably during university campus protests in the United States. These protests, often sparked by genuine concerns over policies, administration decisions, or broader social issues, highlight a critical aspect of democratic societies—the right to dissent and express freely. However, the suppression of these voices through either overt means or subtle bureaucratic barriers is a disconcerting trend that threatens the very foundations of democratic values such as justice, transparency, and accountability.

The Importance of Transparency and Accountability

Transparency in democratic processes ensures that actions and decisions taken by those in power are open to scrutiny. It is crucial in building trust between the government and the public. When authorities handle protests transparently, they demonstrate a commitment to fairness and justice, thereby fostering a sense of security and legitimacy among the populace.

Accountability goes hand in hand with transparency. It ensures that officials are answerable to the public for their actions. This is particularly important in the context of handling protests, where there is a fine line between maintaining order and suppressing free expression. Officials who overstep their bounds must be held accountable to prevent a culture of impunity that can erode democratic norms.

Empowerment Through Deliberative Processes

Empowerment in a democratic context involves equipping citizens with the means to effectively participate in the governance process. This can be achieved through deliberative processes that encourage dialogue and debate. Such processes allow for a diverse range of voices to be heard and considered, which is essential in a healthy democracy.

Universities, as microcosms of broader society, have the unique opportunity to lead by example. They can implement deliberative forums where students, faculty, and administration engage in open, structured dialogues to address contentious issues. This not only helps in resolving specific disputes but also teaches students the skills necessary for democratic participation, such as negotiation, empathy, and critical thinking.

Prioritizing Peace and Diplomatic Solutions

In the face of conflict, the immediate reaction may often lean towards aggressive measures; however, history and wisdom alike show us that peace and diplomatic solutions yield the most sustainable results. Prioritizing peaceful methods does not mean passivity or acceptance of injustice. Rather, it involves actively seeking out non-violent means of conflict resolution, which respects the rights and voices of all parties involved.

Encouraging peace requires a commitment to understanding and addressing the underlying issues that lead to protests. It involves listening to the aggrieved parties and responding in ways that acknowledge their concerns without diminishing their rights. This approach not only resolves the immediate conflict but also heals and strengthens the community by building a foundation of trust and mutual respect.

Fostering a Culture of Open Communication

The suppression of dissent in any form within democratic processes is a warning sign that requires immediate attention and correction. By fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, and empowerment, and by consistently prioritizing diplomatic and peaceful solutions, societies can ensure that their democratic foundations remain strong and vibrant.

As we reflect on the events at university campuses across the United States and elsewhere, it becomes clear that the path forward must be paved with open channels for communication, where dialogue is not just encouraged but is seen as essential to the health of the democracy. Let us commit to these principles, ensuring that every voice has the power to speak out and the assurance that it will be heard and respected.

In our modern age of discontent, it is easy to perceive democracy as an ever-shrinking space, where critical thinking, public deliberation, and dialogue - factors historically associated with good governance - are coming under attack. 

More frequently countries and poltical leaders are taking big and important decisions without consulting citizens and the civil society, and the vast majority of news and media outlets further prevent open policy dialogue and critical thinking by oversimplifying narratives and polarizing society by framing discussions in good vs. evil, or right vs. wrong dichotomies, making oftentimes the false claim that they are speaking on behalf of democracy and values such as freedom and equality, while in fact preventing any constructive form of criticism to occur.

It is easy in this climate to be deeply dissatisfied with how politicians can manipulate public discourse and isolate people. More people everywhere are thinking that perhaps asking questions and demanding accountability is no longer safe. In a number of recent perception surveys conducted across the US and the UK as low as 64% and as high as 80% of the population feels they are no longer safe to express themselves openly for fear of retaliation, judgement, and negative repercussions.

Such kind of staggering statistics highlight that media and political leaders have created a civic space which is unsafe for people to express themselves and where the cost of doing so can be extremely high i.e. being ostricized by friends and family, losing your job etc.

I belive we live in a world were we can no longer hide away from the damage that has been caused in our democracies and this means we need to make our voices louder, while holding fast to noble values and causes like justice, human rights, and the protection and safeguard for the sancticty of all life, while demanding that the social contract be updated to include more accountability, transparency, and participation, while also breaking up media monopolies that offer no plurality of thought and more than one or two perspectives.

The decline of democracy in the West has been a topic of concern for political scientists and policymakers in recent years. While the West has long been considered a bastion of democracy and freedom, there are indications that this reputation may be in jeopardy. In this post, we will explore some of the latest reports and research on the decline of democracy in the West.

One of the most comprehensive sources of data on the state of democracy in the world is the V-Dem Institute. In their latest report, V-Dem found that the quality of democracy has declined in more than half of the 179 countries that they monitor. The report notes that this decline has been most pronounced in established democracies, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and France.

In the United States, the decline of democracy has been a topic of concern for several years. The Economist Intelligence Unit downgraded the U.S. from a "full democracy" to a "flawed democracy" in their 2016 Democracy Index, citing concerns about declining trust in institutions, low voter turnout, and the influence of money in politics. The 2021 Democracy Index report saw the US slip even further down the rankings, citing the "deepening of polarization and political conflict" in the wake of the 2020 presidential election and the Capitol insurrection.

Similarly, in the United Kingdom, concerns have been raised about the decline of democracy in the wake of the Brexit referendum. The British Election Study found that trust in politicians and political parties had declined significantly since the referendum, and that many people felt that their voices were not being heard.

France, too, has seen a decline in the quality of democracy in recent years. The French government's response to the Yellow Vest protests in 2018 and 2019 was criticized for its heavy-handedness, and there have been concerns about the erosion of civil liberties in the name of national security.

The decline of democracy in the West is a complex and multifaceted issue, with many factors contributing to the problem. Some of the factors that have been identified include the rise of populism and nationalism, declining trust in institutions, and the erosion of civil liberties. It is clear, however, that this is a problem that requires urgent attention from policymakers and citizens alike.

In conclusion, while the West has long been considered a beacon of democracy and freedom, there are indications that this reputation may be in jeopardy. Reports from organizations such as V-Dem and the Economist Intelligence Unit suggest that the quality of democracy has declined in many Western countries in recent years. It is important for policymakers and citizens to address this issue and work to strengthen democratic institutions and values.

References:

1. V-Dem Institute. (2021). Democracy Report 2021: Autocratization Surges, Resistance Grows. Retrieved from https://www.v-dem.net/en/publications/democracy-report-2021/

2. The Economist Intelligence Unit. (2021). Democracy Index 2020: In sickness and in health? Retrieved from https://www.eiu.com/n/campaigns/democracy-index-2020/

3. British Election Study. (2019). Report of the British Election Study. Retrieved from https://www.britishelectionstudy.com/bes-findings/trust-in-politicians-and-political-parties-has-fallen-sharply-since-the-brexit-referendum/