The complainants, two non-governmental organisations, were dissatisfied with how the European Commission replied to concerns they raised about the impact assessment of new genomic techniques in relation to the application of EU rules on genetically modified organisms. The complainants were concerned that the Commission failed to follow the applicable rules on impact assessments, including with regard to the consultation of stakeholders and evidence-based decision making, and that it failed to ensure sufficient transparency.

The Ombudsman opened an inquiry and asked the Commission to provide a more detailed reply to on certain concerns raised by the complainants.