In an unexpected turn of events, the European Union (EU) is set to introduce a staggering 1,456 new laws by the end of 2025. This figure, although alarming, marks the highest number of legislative acts since 2010, according to a recent study by the economic association Gesamtmetall.
Increased Legislative Activity
The EU’s current commission, led by President Ursula von der Leyen, has seemingly veered away from its promise of regulatory relief. Instead of streamlining bureaucracy, the commission’s actions have led to a significant increase in regulatory measures. The exact breakdown of the new laws includes:
- 21 Directives
- 102 Regulations
- 137 Delegated Acts
- 1,196 Implementing Acts
This surge in regulation during von der Leyen’s first term from 2019 to 2024 has been more pronounced than the total from her two predecessors.
The Commission’s Claims vs. Business Feedback
Despite the EU Commission’s assertion that it aims to reduce bureaucracy and enhance competitiveness, critics argue that the results tell a different story. A Commission spokesperson emphasized ongoing efforts to cut administrative costs by 25% for businesses, and 35% specifically for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). They noted that concrete savings, rather than the sheer number of proposed laws, are the true measure of success.
In 2025 alone, the Commission proposed ten omnibus and simplification measures expected to reduce administrative costs for businesses and citizens by approximately 15 billion euros. However, the business sector is skeptical of these claims.
Concerns Raised by Industry Leaders
Oliver Zander, General Manager of Gesamtmetall, criticized the Commission’s approach, stating that the introduction of four new regulatory acts daily contradicts the goal of reducing bureaucracy. He emphasized that many businesses struggle to keep pace with these regulations.
Delegated Acts and Regulatory Control
A particularly contentious area of legislation involves delegated acts, which allow the Commission to autonomously adjust laws to include technical details. A recent initiative to conduct a stress test on these acts has led to a postponement of about 30% of legislations initially expected by 2026. This postponement may eventually lead to some laws being revoked.
Former EU Commissioner Günter Verheugen expressed concern about the democratic oversight of these delegated acts, labeling it a significant grey area where bureaucrats can make decisions that profoundly impact millions across Europe.
Conclusion
The impending implementation of 1,456 new laws by 2025 highlights the ongoing tension between regulatory authority and the needs of businesses in the EU. While the Commission asserts its commitment to reducing bureaucracy, industry leaders are voicing concerns regarding the increasing complexity of compliance.
