Candidates for the EU Ombudsman position are expressing concerns about the lack of transparency in the recruitment process. Claudia Mahler, a candidate, highlighted difficulties in gaining MEP support and navigating the bureaucratic system. Six candidates have secured the necessary endorsements for a committee hearing. Mahler, currently a UN expert, noted the irony of her situation, as her potential role would involve addressing similar transparency issues. Other candidates, including Emilio De Capitani, share similar concerns about the recruitment process and advocate for reforms to improve transparency.