Former EU Foreign Policy Chief Federica Mogherini Implicated in Probe into Alleged Misuse of EU Funds
Federica Mogherini, the former EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, has been detained for questioning in Belgium as part of a major fraud investigation led by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO), according to Belgian media reports. The investigation centers on alleged irregularities related to an EU-funded training program for junior diplomats, known as the European Union Diplomatic Academy, which took place between 2021 and 2022.
The probe has led to searches at the European External Action Service (EEAS) offices in Brussels and the College of Europe in Bruges, where Mogherini currently serves as rector and director of the academy, as well as at private homes. The project in question involves a nine-month training program for junior diplomats, which was awarded to the College of Europe following a tender procedure. Mogherini, 52, was one of three individuals detained for questioning, alongside Italian Stefano Sannino, a senior European Commission official and former secretary-general of the EEAS during the period when the academy was created.
Allegations of Irregularities and Potential Breaches of EU Rules
Prosecutors suspect that rules around fair competition and public procurement may have been breached, including the possible sharing of confidential information with the College of Europe before the tender was officially published by the EEAS. This has raised concerns about the transparency and integrity of the EU’s funding processes. Mogherini, a member of the center-left Partito Democratico (PD), previously served as Italy’s foreign minister from February to October 2014 in the Renzi government.
The investigation is ongoing, and the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) is working to determine the extent of any potential wrongdoing. The EPPO is an independent body responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes against the EU’s financial interests. As the probe continues, it is likely that more information will come to light regarding the alleged irregularities and potential breaches of EU rules.
Context and Implications
The allegations against Mogherini and others highlight the importance of ensuring transparency and accountability in the use of EU funds. The EU has implemented various measures to prevent fraud and corruption, including the establishment of the EPPO. However, the current investigation suggests that more needs to be done to prevent the misuse of EU funds and to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
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