The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has enhanced its Independence Policy to better manage conflicts of interest and uphold impartiality in its operations. The new policy will come into force at the end of 2024.

EFSA’s Management Board approved the updated policy in June 2024, introducing significant measures to prevent undue influence. Pamela Byrne, chair of the Board sub-group responsible for the review, stated, “This new policy reinforces our commitment to impartiality and transparency, which are the guiding principles of EFSA’s operations.”

Key updates include applying transparency and independence requirements to individuals from Member States’ partner organisations (Art.36 Organisations) involved in similar activities as EFSA’s scientific Working Groups. Additionally, EFSA’s Executive Director now has the authority to scrutinize the declarations of interest (DoIs) of Management Board members and implement preventive measures if necessary.

The policy also emphasizes the importance of suitable IT tools and technological support to enhance EFSA’s independence-related processes.

Developed by a diverse sub-group of EFSA’s Management Board, the revised policy aims to ensure a broad range of perspectives were considered. The new Independence Policy will be implemented at the end of 2024, following the adoption of the necessary implementing rules.