Brussels is reeling from a significant fraud investigation that led to the detention of Federica Mogherini, the former High Representative of the European Union. Mogherini, who oversaw the bloc’s foreign policy from 2014 to 2019, was taken in for questioning Tuesday morning alongside two other individuals. The probe, conducted by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO), centers on potential irregularities in an EU-funded project and has sparked scrutiny of the European External Action Service (EEAS).
Belgian authorities carried out searches at the offices of the EEAS, the College of Europe in Bruges, and several private residences. Stefano Sannino, a former EEAS Secretary General who recently became director of the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Middle East, North Africa and the Gulf (DG MENA), is also among those being questioned. A manager at the College of Europe is the third individual involved, according to reports.
Investigation Focuses on EU Funding and Tendering Process
The EPPO’s investigation specifically concerns the European Union Diplomatic Academy, a training program for young diplomats. This academy was awarded to the College of Europe through a public tender process between 2021 and 2022. The core of the inquiry is whether the EEAS improperly shared confidential information with the College of Europe before the official project award.
Allegations of Irregularities
According to the EPPO statement, there are “strong suspicions” that EU rules regarding fair competition were violated. Specifically, the EPPO believes confidential details about the tender were disclosed to a candidate – the College of Europe – before a formal decision was made.
The alleged actions could constitute several offenses, including procurement fraud, corruption, conflict of interest, and breaches of professional secrecy. The EPPO emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and aims to clarify the facts and determine if any criminal activity occurred. The lifting of immunity for those involved suggests the individuals hold or recently held high-ranking positions within the EU system.
The College of Europe has stated its full cooperation with the authorities, emphasizing its commitment to integrity and compliance in all its activities. A spokesperson for the EEAS confirmed the raids, noting they relate to activities from the “previous mandate,” referring to the period before the current High Representative, Kaja Kallas, took office in December 2023.
This isn’t the first time the EEAS has faced scrutiny over its procedures. Past reports have highlighted challenges in ensuring transparency and accountability in the allocation of EU funds. However, the involvement of such prominent former officials as Mogherini and Sannino elevates the seriousness of these current allegations.
The timing of the investigation is also noteworthy, coming as the EU seeks to strengthen its foreign policy coordination and engagement with neighboring regions. The DG MENA, recently headed by Sannino, is a key component of this effort, aiming to bolster relations with the Middle East, North Africa, and the Gulf. Any findings of wrongdoing could potentially undermine these initiatives and damage the EU’s reputation.
The investigation into this potential EU fraud is expected to continue for several weeks, if not months. Authorities will likely examine documents, interview witnesses, and analyze financial transactions to build a comprehensive case. The outcome of the investigation could have significant implications for the individuals involved and for the broader functioning of the EU’s foreign policy apparatus.
As the EPPO delves deeper into the matter, observers will be watching closely for further developments and any potential impact on the EU’s diplomatic efforts. Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds and learn more about the European Public Prosecutor’s Office and its role in safeguarding EU funds.