More standards, fewer laws

Standardization means self-regulation. As such, it is also a means to fight overregulation by the state.
 
Standards are drafted by all interested parties rather than the legislator, a government agency or a state regulator. The issues governed by means of standards reflect the concerns of companies, associations as well as public and private institutions.
 
Against the background of the single European market, European standards have become particularly significant in recent years. In 1985, the European Community introduced a new scheme, the New Approach. This meant that its directives were to include only the most fundamental requirements for products and services. Specifically, these requirements relate to safety, health and environmental matters. Details of the regulations are laid down in harmonized European standards. These are the basis of CE labelling as specified in European directives (e.g. on machinery safety, toys or personal protective equipment). In turn, CE labelling is the gate-opener for free movement of goods.