Working paper argues that 'simplicity by design' can only reduce bureaucracy if operationalised through outcome-first lawmaking, balanced democratic participation, disciplined use of exemptions, and mandatory ex post evaluation.
Achieving 'Simplicity by design' in EU Better Regulation in times of disinformation
Achieving “Simplicity by design” in EU Better Regulation in times of disinformation
We published our working paper on EU Better Regulation on Zenodo. The paper was written with Die Bürokratiemonster and Baum e.V.. Together, we developed evidence-based recommendations for the European Commission’s Call for Evidence on adjustments to its Better Regulation framework. Baum e.V. contributed valuable expertise and perspectives to this collaborative response.
What the Paper Argues
In simple terms: Making laws simpler sounds good. But it only works if done correctly. The paper says we must: focus on what laws should achieve (outcomes), include everyone in the process (democratic participation), be careful with exceptions, and check if laws work after they’re passed.
“Simplicity by design” can only reduce bureaucracy if done right. It must focus on outcomes first. It must include balanced democratic participation. It must use exemptions carefully. It must require mandatory evaluation after laws are passed.
Key Findings
In simple terms: The EU is good at making laws based on evidence. But it’s weak at checking if those laws actually work after they’re passed. Also, recent laws have skipped proper consultation and rushed through without good reasons. Making things “simpler” often makes them more complicated because of all the exceptions.
The EU is strong in evidence-based rule-making. But ex post evaluation is the weakest element. This needs to change.
Recent lawmaking moved away from science-based processes. The Ombudsperson criticized “maladministration.” It found “insufficient justification for claimed urgency.” It also found “inadequate consultation.” Alberto Alemanno and 50+ European scholars examine these findings in detail. Our paper builds on their research and aligns with their warnings about emergency lawmaking.
Simplification often creates more bureaucracy. Exemptions fragment compliance. They increase costs. They weaken effectiveness.
The Context: Disinformation and Democracy
In simple terms: False information is spreading faster, especially with AI. This threatens democracy. Europe needs reliable laws that people can trust. When laws are clear and work as intended, people trust them more.
Disinformation is a growing concern. Research warns that “malicious AI swarms” can threaten democracy. Europe must ensure its regulation is reliable. It must ensure ambitions are met. This reduces complexity. It protects trust in regulation.
Main Recommendations
In simple terms: The paper makes four main recommendations: (1) When laws need to be made quickly, still require evidence and check if they work later. (2) Make sure everyone can participate in consultations, not just big companies. (3) Start by defining what the law should achieve, then write it simply. (4) Be transparent about who influences decisions and protect against false information.
Evidence-based policy under urgency:
- Use different levels of evidence depending on how risky and large the law is. More important laws need more evidence.
- Set a minimum standard of evidence even when laws are rushed through quickly.
- Automatically check if urgent laws work after they’re passed. This must happen, not be optional.
- Only allow “urgency” when there are clear, specific reasons. Don’t use it as an excuse to skip proper checks.
Efficient consultations without participation loss:
- Make sure civil society groups and scientists have the same voice as business groups. Don’t let industry dominate.
- Plan from the start to include groups that are usually left out, like small businesses and community organizations.
- Give people enough time to respond. Set clear minimum deadlines that everyone can count on.
- Show clearly how consultation responses were used. Explain what was included, what was left out, and why.
“Simplicity by design” as outcome-first lawmaking:
- Start by defining what the law should achieve. Then write it simply to reach that goal.
- Be very careful with exceptions. Every exception must have a good reason backed by evidence.
- Test every law to make sure it can’t be easily avoided or worked around. Close loopholes before the law is passed.
Integrity and resilience safeguards:
- Make it clear who influences decisions. Show who meets with policymakers and what they discuss.
- Protect the evidence-gathering process from false information and manipulation. Make it harder for bad actors to spread lies that influence policy.
Why This Matters
In simple terms: When laws are made properly with evidence and everyone’s input, everyone benefits. Businesses know what to expect. Markets are stable. Society is protected. Clear, reliable laws prevent confusion and build trust.
Europe needs balanced democratic processes. Evidence-based policy-making provides security. It provides predictability. This benefits businesses. It benefits financial markets. It benefits society.
Europe must ensure reliable regulation. It must ensure ambitions are reached. It must ensure laws are easily understood. It must ensure laws are simple to implement. This avoids chaos. It protects trust.
Access the Publication
The full working paper is available on Zenodo:
Authors: Christian Wörle (Climate+Tech), Philippe Diaz (Bürokratiemonster), Marion Sollback (BAUM e.V.)
Date: 04 February 2026
Related Resources
- Alberto Alemanno on EU Better Regulation and Ombudsman Findings - Research examining the Ombudsman’s findings on Better Regulation processes
- EU Better Regulation Framework Consultation 2026 - Original consultation call and working group information
- Research on Bureaucracy and Democracy - Our broader research project exploring bureaucratic processes and democratic participation
- Die Bürokratiemonster - Our partner organization in bureaucracy research
- Baum e.V. - Our partner organization in the EU Better Regulation consultation project
Looking Forward
The publication of these results on Zenodo ensures that our evidence-based recommendations are accessible to policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders. As the European Commission reviews consultation responses and prepares its updated Better Regulation framework, we hope these recommendations contribute to strengthening policy quality while maintaining the rigor and transparency that citizens and businesses expect from EU institutions.
The outcome of this consultation will shape how EU laws are developed for years to come. It is essential that the Commission listens carefully to all stakeholders—from civil society to businesses, especially SMEs—to ensure that Better Regulation truly means better, not just faster or lighter.
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