Since 2019, the RBE's main missions include managing the registers, checking the information submitted by companies, and making this information available to the public, professionals, and the authorities.
According to Yves Gonner, the director of the RBE, about 300,000 people are listed in the registers. When it comes to doing background checks on these individuals, Gonner explains that if possible, the RBE uses databases based in Luxembourg. If this is not an option, the respective individuals have to submit additional proof of identity, for instance a copy of their passport or ID card. The RBE then verifies the submitted data.
Those making the declaration must once again confirm their information before it is internally checked and validated by the RBE. Gonner points out that as this process is based on manual input; mistakes can always occur.
Nonetheless, Gonner stresses that the checks carried out by the Registers are effective. The law also stipulates that people who are consulting the information made available by the Registers have to flag any discrepancies they may find. When the RBE receives such an alert, they contact the company and ask them to correct their information.
According to Gonner, the RBE fulfils its checks and missions as stipulated by law. The Registers check up on data that is provided to them, basically doing material testing. It is not part of the RBE's mission to launch investigations or do extensive research on the beneficial owners, the director argues.
However, Gonner also adds that the RBE is constantly working on improving its infrastructure.
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