The complainant, an environmental non-governmental organisation, raised concerns about a workshop on pesticides, organised by the European Commission. In particular, the complainant was concerned about a lack of transparency around the workshop’s organisation and that only representatives of the pesticides industry had been invited to participate.

After a meeting with Commission representatives, the Ombudsman found that the Commission could have ensured greater transparency around the workshop.

She suggested that, for future events, the Commission ensure that all relevant stakeholders in the area of pesticides have the opportunity to provide their views on topics that are discussed with industry. She also suggested the Commission develop a dedicated webpage on which it publishes information and documents about all upcoming events it organises in the area of pesticides.