FAQs
How does EPSO ensure equal treatment, equal opportunities, and Selection Board impartiality?
Each selection procedure has its own Selection Board, responsible for selecting the best candidates based on the qualifications and competencies defined in the Notice of Competition. Selection Boards are composed of officials from EU institutions, and EPSO ensures balance in terms of gender, language capacity, staff and administration representation, and institution size. A Chairperson, supported by one or more Vice-Chairs, leads the Board. All assessment activities are subject to strict confidentiality rules.
The principle of impartiality guides the entire selection process. No direct hierarchical or family relationship may exist between a Selection Board member and a candidate they assess. Any potential conflict of interest must be declared by both Board members and candidates so that appropriate measures can be taken.
The Selection Board applies the pre-established eligibility, selection, and assessment criteria set out in the Notice of Competition in a consistent and transparent manner. Board members receive training, coaching, and supervision, and their work is regularly reviewed to ensure a harmonised assessment approach.
EPSO also carries out systematic quality controls and statistical analyses to detect and prevent potential bias.
In addition, EPSO ensures equal opportunities by analysing tests and scoring methods to ensure fairness for all candidates and alignment with international standards, including the ISO standard for assessment procedures and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. EPSO also strives to ensure gender balance among candidates and successful applicants.