Ursula von der Leyen - Photo © European Union 2026

“President Von der Leyen has given a clear answer to one of business’s most urgent concerns: Europe must simplify, and Member States must stop adding multiple layers to EU rules. We particularly welcome her proposal for a pact against gold-plating. This urgently needs to translate into concrete measures.”

Today’s launch of the European Commission’s Competitiveness Compass risks becoming a victory for polluting industries at the expense of workers, the environment, and future prosperity.