Brussels-based foreign correspondents association, API-IPA, takes note of the European Commission’s formal reply to the European Ombudsman in case 477/2023/EIS. However, correspondents regret the Commission’s decision to abolish embargoed distributions for Eurostat’s Euro Indicators rather than address legitimate concerns through sensible reform.
“This is a missed opportunity to reinforce responsible journalism in the EU capital,” said API-IPA President Dafydd ab Iago. “Embargo systems exist precisely to guarantee fair, equal access to sensitive information until official release. Dismantling these systems risks fragmenting access to essential EU data and encouraging selective leaks to favoured media.”
API-IPA emphasizes that maintaining press materials under strict embargo for EU-accredited correspondents in Brussels is not discriminatory toward outlets without a local presence. “Any journalist in Washington, Wuhan — or even Waikerie and Wasco — can access and report this information the moment an embargo lifts,” ab Iago noted. “The system ensures simultaneous, fair disclosure for all, not privilege for a few.”
The Ombudsman’s maladministration finding in this case regrettably reflects a flawed interpretation of both freedom of information and equal treatment for journalists. It overlooks the longstanding trust placed in EU-accredited correspondents, who are:
- Independently vetted by Belgian security services under Regulation 223/2009.
- Accountable through peer review and by-lined reporting.
- Physically present and sanctionable in Brussels for embargo breaches, including through restricted access to briefings, events, and informal engagement with EU officials.
Since 1975, API-IPA has consistently opposed selective leaks by EU officials and defended embargo systems as essential to guaranteeing equal conditions for all media, while preventing unfair advantages for financial actors or pay-walled services. The association urges the European Commission to reconsider its approach in the interest of preserving journalistic integrity, accountability, and equal access within the EU press corps.
Case 477/2023/EIS: https://www.ombudsman.europa.eu/en/case/en/63542
2 June 2025 – Reply by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to the Ombudsman: