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The independence of the ECB is conducive to maintaining price stability. This is supported by extensive theoretical analysis and empirical evidence on central bank independence.
The ECB's independence is laid down in the institutional framework for the single monetary policy (in the Treaty and in the Statute).
back to topNeither the ECB nor the national central banks (NCBs), nor any member of their decision-making bodies, are allowed to seek or take instructions from European Community institutions or bodies, from any government of an EU Member State or from any other body.
Community institutions and bodies and the governments of the Member States must respect this principle and not seek to influence the members of the decision-making bodies of the ECB (Article 108 of the Treaty).
back to topThe ECB's financial arrangements are kept separate from those of the European Community. The ECB has its own budget. Its capital is subscribed and paid up by the euro area NCBs.
The Statute foresees long terms of office for the members of the Governing Council.
Members of the Executive Board cannot be re-appointed.
Governors of NCBs and members of the Executive Board have security of tenure:
The Eurosystem is prohibited from granting loans to Community bodies or national public sector entities. This further shields it from any influence exercised by public authorities.
The Eurosystem is functionally independent. The ECB has at its disposal all instruments and competencies necessary for the conduct of an efficient monetary policy and is authorised to decide autonomously how and when to use them.
The ECB has the right to adopt binding regulations to the extent necessary to carry out the tasks of the ESCB and in certain other cases as laid down in specific acts of the EU Council.
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