Together with nearly 60 civil society organizations and trade unions, AK EUROPA has sent an open letter to the Commission calling for a new approach to Better Regulation. The Commission recently presented its communication on a Simpler, Clearer and Better Enforced EU Rulebook, and the Better Regulation Guidelines are also due to be revised shortly. However, the approach outlined in the communication prioritises corporate interests and weakens democratic participation mechanisms. From the perspective of the signatory organizations, it is important to incorporate social and environmental policy objectives, as provided for in the EU Treaties, and to align with the EU Strategy for Civil Society. Consultations must be transparent and open, with academia, civil society and trade unions included in expert groups. Impact assessments prior to new legislation should take all implications into account. Furthermore, Member States must continue to have the option of introducing or maintaining higher standards.