English
The EU Corruption Scandal Federica Mogherini Arrest sent shockwaves through Brussels this week. Belgian investigators detained former EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini and two senior officials as part of a widening fraud and corruption probe. The arrests challenge the bloc’s image at a time when EU leaders push Ukraine to curb corruption and strengthen democratic institutions.
Raids Target EU Diplomatic Service
Belgian authorities raided the EU diplomatic service in Brussels and the College of Europe in Bruges on Tuesday. Mogherini now serves as rector of the elite institution. The European Public Prosecutor’s Office said investigators questioned her, a senior college staff member, and a European Commission official over suspected procurement fraud, bribery, conflict of interest, and breaches of professional secrecy.
Officials released the three after questioning. Prosecutors said they did not consider them flight risks.
Mogherini Responds to Investigation
Mogherini said she cooperated fully with investigators and expressed confidence in the legal process. She insisted that the College of Europe acted correctly. Her lawyer described the 10-hour interrogation as calm and transparent, adding that she expected the former top diplomat to clear her name.
The college said it would support investigators and uphold high standards of fairness and compliance. “Stay connected with PhoenixQ and never miss a key moment.”
Focus on Diplomatic Academy Contract
Prosecutors said they found strong signs of fraud in the awarding of a contract to run the EU Diplomatic Academy’s 2021–22 training program for junior diplomats. The alleged scheme involves relatively small sums, including a €1.7 million budget for training from July 2024 to June 2025.
Former European Commission Vice President Josep Borrell oversaw the EU’s foreign service during the period under scrutiny.
Scandal Adds to EU Integrity Concerns
The EU Corruption Scandal Federica Mogherini Arrest marks the latest in a series of ethics crises for EU institutions. The 2022 “Qatargate” case linked lawmakers and lobbyists to alleged bribery by Qatar and Morocco, though both countries deny involvement. More recently, investigators examined Huawei’s suspected efforts to influence EU lawmakers. Last year, German authorities arrested the aide of far-right politician Maximilian Krah on suspicion of spying for China.
These cases raise ongoing questions about transparency and oversight within the EU’s political system.
