Transparency: the first principle

Transparency: the first principle

Published January 22, 2026

Introduction

The Code of Good Administrative Behavior of the EU places transparency as a core value of democratic governance, ethical administration, and public trust.  The Ombudsman keeps a watch on the observance of this value. 

Because it is independent, accessible, and focused on fairness, the Ombudsman acts in a manner whereby transparency is not merely advocated in principle but also actively practiced.

Open decision-making is not optional but a necessary standard.  When a public office is transparent, the public is placed in a position to understand what it is there for, what it does and why.  It enables persons to understand how resources are used and how authority is exercised. 

Meaning

Transparency by public bodies includes:

• Access to information that is clear, timely and accurate.
• Rules and processes of administrative action that the public can follow.
• Reasoned decision-making.
• Willingness to review, question and even correct acts or practices.

People cannot challenge unfair decisions if they do not understand how or why those decisions were taken.

Public bodies have to apply the principles of transparency not only with the public but also where the Ombudsman is concerned.

Public authorities must justify their actions.  Without access to information, documents, and explanations from public authorities, meaningful investigations by the Ombudsman cannot move forward effectively.

The law backs the institution. Public bodies should also back the Ombudsman.

Findings

When the Ombudsman carries out an investigation, he has every right to request and obtain records, interview officials, and inspect administrative processes. 

Findings frequently highlight failures such as poor communication, unexplained delays, or inadequate record-keeping. Findings should encourage public bodies to make better decision-making process before complaints arise. Transparency does not mean perfect behavior. It means being honest to admit errors (not necessarily in public) and willing to address mistakes.

Recommendations often stress the need for: better empathy to service users, better methods of how to sustain decisions, and proactive disclosure of relevant information.

Recommendations foster a culture where openness is seen as integral to good administration rather than as an external burden.

Empathy

Transparency includes being understandable and responsive. The Ombudsman insists that persons who find themselves in difficulty in society due to poverty, disability, language barriers, or social exclusion do receive clear information and fair explanations. This human-centered approach to transparency transforms abstract openness into lived justice.

Protection

In the performance of his functions, the Ombudsman strikes a balance between his obligation of non-disclosure of information he acquires and transparency.  Secrecy of information that derives from investigations protects complainants, particularly where retaliation is a risk.  The fact that investigations are conducted in private encourages public officials to be more open and franker, leading to more accurate findings.  Systemic inquiries by the Ombudsman move beyond individual cases as they look into patterns of failure across public institutions.  Therefore, the Ombudsman acts as a catalyst for transparent governance at a structural level.

Digital

The digital transformation of public administration presents both opportunities and risks.

Opportunities include:

• Online access to information and services
• Real-time tracking of applications and decisions

Risks include:

• Algorithmic decision-making without explanation
• Uncontrolled use of personal data

Ombudsman institutions are increasingly called upon to scrutinize digital governance, ensuring that transparency principles apply equally in automated and data-driven systems.

Conclusion

In the performance of his work, the Ombudsman transforms transparency from commendable principle into a lived reality for persons and public institutions alike. Quietly, persistently, and indispensably, the Ombudsman stands as a reminder that transparency is part and parcel of good administration and is beneficial to all.