Belgian Police Search EU Diplomatic Office Over Fraud Allegations

Belgian authorities have arrested three individuals in coordinated raids on the European Union’s diplomatic service offices in Brussels and the College of Europe in Bruges. This operation, led by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO), investigates suspected fraud linked to EU-funded training programs for junior diplomats.

The arrested individuals include Federica Mogherini, the former EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and current rector of the College of Europe; Stefano Sannino, the former Secretary-General of the European External Action Service (EEAS); and a senior manager from the College of Europe. The investigation focuses on the contract awarded for the European Union Diplomatic Academy’s training program for 2021–2022. Authorities suspect the possible sharing of confidential information with one candidate during the tender process, which may have violated procurement rules and professional secrecy.

The EPPO has raised serious suions of procurement fraud, corruption, conflict of interest, and breaches of professional secrecy. The investigation is ongoing to elish the facts and determine if any criminal conduct occurred. The European Commission has acknowledged the raids but refrained from commenting further due to the investigation’s active status.

The College of Europe has committed to cooperating fully with the authorities, emphasizing its dedication to transparency and high integrity standards. The institution is taking necessary measures to ensure continuity in its activities.

This incident has prompted significant concerns within EU institutions, highlighting the urgent need for rigorous oversight and ethical adherence in managing EU-funded programs. The investigation’s outcome may have broader implications for governance and accountability within the European Union, stressing the importance of maintaining trust and integrity in its operations.