At its plenary session on 25 April, the EESC approved the agreement establishing an interinstitutional body for ethical standards. The new agreement was formally signed by the representatives of the participating EU institutions and bodies on 15 May. It should enter into force on 6 June, the first day of voting for the European elections.

The agreement is a significant step towards bolstering a common culture of integrity and ethics.

The new EU body will develop, update and interpret common minimum standards for ethical conduct, and publish reports on how these standards have been reflected in the internal rules of each participating EU institution and body.

In addition to the EESC, the following seven EU institutions and bodies will be part of the new ethics body: the European Parliament, the Council of the EU, the European Commission, the Court of Justice of the European Union, the European Central Bank, the European Court of Auditors and the European Committee of the Regions.

Each participating institution will be represented by one senior member and the position of chair of the body will rotate between the institutions on an annual basis.

Five independent experts will support the work of the body by delivering opinions upon request. Any party to the agreement will be able to consult them on individual standardised written declarations, including declarations of interest. (mp)