Jelena Drenjanin, the CoR Rapporteur on “A Simpler and Faster Europe,” has welcomed the European Commission’s Communication on simplifying and improving the implementation of EU rules but stressed that local and regional authorities must play a key role for this to work on the ground . The initiative marks a critical step towards a more responsive and effective European Union, better equipped to serve citizens and businesses alike.
“Simplifying EU law is not just timely—it’s necessary,” said Drenjanin while addressing the CIVEX Commission. “We need agile responses to modern challenges. In Sweden alone, over a third of businesses say they are holding back on hiring or investment due to red tape. This burden is real, and it echoes across Europe in SMEs that form the backbone of our local economies.”
Drenjanin emphasized the importance of reducing the administrative burden not only on businesses but also on local and regional authorities. Current regulations, such as those on public procurement and state aid, often involve high compliance costs and complex procedures—particularly for smaller players seeking EU funding. “Simplification must not come at the expense of accountability, fairness, or sustainability. We just want better rules that work on the ground,” she added.
The Commission’s focus on implementation is another highlight of the Communication. Drenjanin underscored that the effectiveness of EU legislation depends not only on its adoption but also on its practical application. “It’s one thing to pass a law, but it’s another to make it work on the ground. Local and regional governments are responsible for implementing up to 70% of EU legislation. If we are serious about delivery, then those who are closest to the citizens must be involved from the start,” she noted.
Drenjanin applauded initiatives like the Regulatory Fitness and Performance Programme (REFIT), the Fit for Future Platform, and the Better Regulation Agenda. She also expressed support for the Compact for strengthening administrative capacity, and called for increased use of digital tools and automation to cut through excessive reporting requirements. “Success will depend on a clearly defined role for the Committee of the Regions in EU policy reviews and implementation cycles,” Drenjanin stressed. “Shared responsibility is the only way forward. Local and regional governments are where ambition meets application. Their insights must be part of the legislative process—early, often, and meaningfully.”
She concluded by reaffirming that subsidiarity and proportionality must anchor every stage of lawmaking: “They cannot be afterthoughts. They must shape both the design and delivery of EU policy.”