The European Parliament is struggling to restore credibility as reforms proposed by its President, Roberta Metsola, face skepticism following a corruption scandal involving alleged bribes from Qatar and Morocco.
The scandal erupted in December after Belgian police raided the homes and offices of several MEPs, ex-MEPs, parliamentary aides, and NGO officials. Authorities uncovered €1.5 million in cash during the raids. Belgian prosecutors accuse those involved of corruption, money laundering, and participation in a criminal organization.
Key Figures in the Case
- Eva Kaili, Greek MEP and former vice-president of the European Parliament, was arrested alongside her partner Francesco Giorgi, former MEP Pier Antonio Panzeri, and NGO leader Niccolo Figa-Talamanca.
- Kaili denies knowledge of the cash found in her home.
- Giorgi reportedly confessed, according to Belgian daily Le Soir.
All four suspects remain in custody. Greece and Italy have launched their own investigations.
Metsola’s Proposed Reforms
Metsola has vowed swift action to strengthen integrity, transparency, and accountability. Announced measures include:
- Restricting parliamentary access for former MEPs.
- Registering lobbyists and external visitors.
- Public registry of gifts and travel received by MEPs.
- Stricter penalties for breaches.
However, many observers and lawmakers say these steps do not go far enough. Alberto Alemanno, a professor of EU law, argued that the scandal is “much more serious” than past cases and requires deeper structural reforms.
Calls for Stronger Oversight
Some MEPs are demanding bolder measures:
- Stephane Sejourne (Renew Europe) called for an EU authority to oversee transparency in public life.
- Daniel Freund (German Green MEP) urged public asset declarations for MEPs and stronger whistleblower protections.
- Manon Aubry (The Left) criticized the parliament for watering down reforms initially demanded.
Immunity Requests and Further Investigations
Belgian prosecutors have also requested lifting the immunity of two MEPs: Marc Tarabella of Belgium and Andrea Cozzolino of Italy. Tarabella admitted failing to declare a paid trip to Qatar in 2020, which his lawyer called an oversight. Another Belgian MEP, Maria Arena, acknowledged she had forgotten to declare a similar Qatar-funded trip in 2022.
The scandal, dubbed “Qatargate”, threatens to overshadow the parliament’s plenary session this week, where MEPs will vote on who replaces Kaili as vice-president. Observers warn it could also impact upcoming European Parliament elections in 18 months.
