5/26/25, 2:55 PM

Budapest
The following paper examines the landmark ruling of May 14, 2025, by the General Court (EU), which significantly expands the EU’s legal framework on transparency and the right of access to documents. By recognizing digital communications—such as SMS exchanges—as official documents when linked to institutional activity, the decision obliges EU institutions to improve documentation and archiving practices. The case, involving President Ursula von der Leyen’s informal negotiations with Pfizer, also carries major political weight, marking a turning point in the “Pfizergate” affair and potentially shaping the future of transparency and governance in the European Union.