Why timely EU decision-making matters: The case of chemical authorisations

Why timely EU decision-making matters: The case of chemical authorisations

Published August 02, 2025

The protection of public health and the environment depends heavily on effective and timely decision-making within the European Union. In a recent video message, European Ombudswoman Teresa Anjinho explained the findings of an inquiry into delays in the European Commission’s chemical authorisation process under the REACH Regulation.

The Ombudsman concluded that the Commission has failed to adequately address significant delays in deciding on applications by companies seeking to use substances of very high concern. While EU rules set a deadline of three months for the Commission to prepare draft decisions, the current average is 14.5 months. During this time, companies can continue using potentially hazardous chemicals, including those that may be carcinogenic, toxic for reproduction, or harmful to the endocrine system.

The inquiry found maladministration in the Commission’s approach and recommended concrete steps to address the issue. These included reviewing lengthy internal procedures and dismissing applications lacking sufficient information so that the substances in question could no longer be used in the EU. However, the Commission did not accept these recommendations and failed to present a comprehensive plan to prevent further delays.

The REACH Regulation was designed to ensure a high level of protection for human health and the environment while promoting innovation in the chemical industry. Delays in its implementation undermine its very purpose, leaving EU citizens unnecessarily exposed to harmful substances. The Ombudsman reiterated the urgent need for the Commission to take additional measures to meet the goals of REACH and recent case law, and to ensure that risk management procedures for dangerous chemicals are carried out without undue delay.

European Ombudswoman Teresa Anjinho will be in Malta this October to address the opening ceremony of the International Ombudsman Conference commemorating the 30th Anniversary of the Maltese Ombudsman institution. The conference, themed “Upholding Good Governance in Difficult Times: The Role of the Ombudsman”, will provide an important platform for reflecting on the critical role Ombudsman institutions play in safeguarding the rights and well-being of people across Europe.