The 4liberty.eu network in cooperation with the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom Central Europe office has officially launched its new Manifesto, “Deregulation, Not Simplification: Europe’s Way Out of Bureaucracy,” at a high-level gathering in Brussels bringing together policymakers, business representatives and experts from all over Europe. The document calls for action and outlines concrete proposals to reduce Europe’s regulatory burden and revitalise the Single Market.
The Manifesto is the result of extensive work conducted by the network’s think tanks and experts from across Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). It responds to a long-standing challenge: despite repeated commitments to “better regulation,” the number and complexity of EU legislative acts has continued to grow, placing significant pressure on economic actors across the continent, especially the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and slowing down innovation and Europe´s role as a global player.
During the event, participants discussed how Europe can reverse this trend and strengthen its position in an increasingly competitive global environment and shifting US geopolicy. The Manifesto introduces four key priorities aimed at delivering measurable and impactful change:
- a net reduction of unnecessary regulation
- a universal sunset clause for legislation
- improved accountability for national reforms
- a revitalised Single Market with fewer administrative barriers
The quality of input we received today confirms how timely this Manifesto is. We are proud to present a document that combines expertise from our network and sets a clear direction for reform. Our goal is to bring these recommendations directly into the policymaking process – says Dan-Aria Sucuri, CEO of 4liberty.eu.
In his keynote address, Moritz Körner, Member of the European Parliament (FDP), highlighted the paradox at the heart of current EU reform efforts, noting that “the European Union often tries to reduce bureaucracy through bureaucratic means.” He stressed that meaningful progress requires a more decisive, results-oriented approach to regulation that genuinely supports growth and innovation.
The presentation of the Manifesto featured contributions from lead author Martin Vlachynský (INESS), who discussed the implications of regulatory inflation and the need for a strategic shift in EU governance.
For too long, we have heard promises of simplification. But simplification alone does not solve the problem. Europe needs a real, measurable commitment to deregulation if it wants to remain competitive in the 21st century – added Mr Vlachynský during his presentation.
The Manifesto has already received wide support, with numerous think tanks, business associations, and companies signing on as co-supporters. This broad coalition reflects growing recognition that regulatory reform is central to Europe’s ability to innovate, attract investment, and scale new technologies.
