Reality checks

What are reality checks in the European Commission?

Reality checks are a new technical consultation tool used by the European Commission to assess how EU rules function in practice. They involve direct engagement with businesses, practitioners, and individuals who implement, comply with, or are affected by EU legislation. These checks are part of the Commission’s broader simplification, implementation and enforcement agenda.

What is the purpose of reality checks?

Reality checks aim to

Test EU rules 'on the ground' by gathering practical feedback from practitioners.
Identify implementation issues, such as unclear rules, excessive costs, inconsistent national application, or disproportionate burdens.
Highlight good practices and lessons to improve efficiency and impact.
Detect unintended consequences of EU rules (e.g., indirect or cumulative impacts) and explore solutions.
Find opportunities to reduce administrative burdens (e.g., simplifying authorisations, reporting, or certifications).

Who participates in reality checks?

The Commission engages directly with individual businesses and practitioners (e.g. fishers, aquaculture producers, processors, retailers) rather than umbrella organisations or associations.

For Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries' (DG MARE) reality checks (focusing on fisheries and aquaculture)

Each workshop includes around 20 participants, with 5 seats reserved for Advisory Council representatives.

How are reality checks conducted?

Format: Half-day, in-person workshops (not online).
Language: Workshops are held in both English and participants’ native languages (except for the two aquaculture workshops and the post-landing activities workshop, which are English-only).
Organisation: An external contractor assists in facilitating the sessions.

When and how many reality checks will take place?

DG MARE plans 18 reality checks, starting from June onwards.
Each session focuses on specific EU rules and programmes in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors.