What is the role of the European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO)?

The European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO) plays a crucial role in the functioning of the European Union by selecting and recruiting staff for various EU institutions and agencies. This process is vital for ensuring that the EU employs the best-qualified individuals who can effectively fulfill the diverse roles required within its framework, such as in administrative, technical, and policy-making positions.

EPSO's work encompasses organizing selection procedures, conducting tests and assessments, and managing the recruitment process to enhance the efficiency and coherence of staffing across EU bodies. This is particularly important given the complexity and scale of the EU, which relies on a competent workforce to implement policies and manage operations. Having a dedicated agency like EPSO allows the EU to maintain high standards in personnel selection and ensure a merit-based recruitment process that supports the overall functionality of the institutions.

Other options do not align with EPSO’s direct responsibilities. Managing the EU budget relates more to other entities within the EU framework, while promoting member states and overseeing economic development are broader tasks that involve various organizations and government bodies. Therefore, the selection of staff is the distinct and primary function of EPSO.