Integrity of officials

25.9.2017

Question for written answer E-005923-17
to the Commission
Rule 130
Auke Zijlstra (ENF)

Incorruptibility and integrity are characteristics on which Dutch civil servants pride themselves. This is underlined by their swearing an oath or making an affirmation upon appointment. In addition, in many cases it is necessary to obtain a certificate of good behaviour before entering the public service. In the Netherlands, the Law on Sworn Interpreters and Translators imposes specific integrity requirements which are applicable to translators working on judicial matters.

1. Does the Commission consider that such stringent integrity requirements should also apply to officials who work at the European institutions?

2. Are there any differences among the European institutions and agencies as regards integrity requirements?

3. Are there any differences between professional groups at the European institutions and agencies as regards integrity requirements (e.g. specific requirements for interpreters)?