Former EU foreign policy chief detained in fraud case, media reports

Sources from Euractiv reported that on Tuesday, December 2, the Belgian police conducted searches at the European External Action Service (EEAS) in Brussels and at the College of Europe in Bruges. In addition, several private residences were searched.

The searches are part of an investigation into the alleged misuse of European funds. According to sources, the police detained three individuals for further questioning.

Among those detained is former EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini, who currently serves as rector of the College of Europe. Former Secretary-General of the European External Action Service Stefano Sannino was also detained.

The investigation concerns suspicions of favoritism and unfair competition in a training program for future European diplomats at the College of Europe.

What is known about the investigation

Sources from Le Soir reported that the investigation began following claims that the EEAS and the College of Europe misused EU funds in 2021 and 2022. The allegations include contract fraud, corruption, conflicts of interest, and disclosure of official secrets.

The College of Europe is a higher education institution that trains a significant number of European officials. The investigation will examine whether the institution or its representatives were “pre-informed about selection criteria” in the tender procedure announced by the EU diplomatic service.

Federica Mogherini served as EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy from 2014 to 2019. Since September 2020, she has been rector of the College of Europe.

European countries have accused Belgium of imposing excessive requirements to "unfreeze" Russian assets.

Politico recently reported that Belgium’s resistance may have more practical reasons than "fear of retaliation" from Russia. The EU suspects that Belgium is appropriating revenues from Russian assets.