Story perspectives

Former EU Chief Resigns Amid Corruption Probe

12/4/2025

Summary

Story summary

Federica Mogherini, former EU foreign policy chief and rector of the College of Europe, resigned amid a corruption probe by the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO).
She faces procurement fraud, conflict of interest, and a violation of professional secrecy related to the EU Diplomatic Academy's establishment, including a nearly €1 million budget.
Mogherini and two others were detained but released.
The EPPO investigation has raised concerns within the EU community.

History

Historical Context

The European Union established the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) in 2017 to address cross-border financial crimes, following earlier anti-corruption efforts like the 2011 EU Anti-Corruption Report. The resignation of Federica Mogherini amid a corruption probe highlights ongoing governance challenges, potentially prompting reforms to enhance transparency and restore public trust in EU institutions.

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Story summary

Federica Mogherini, former EU foreign policy chief and rector of the College of Europe, resigned amid a corruption probe by the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO).
She faces procurement fraud, conflict of interest, and a violation of professional secrecy related to the EU Diplomatic Academy's establishment, including a nearly €1 million budget.
Mogherini and two others were detained but released.
The EPPO investigation has raised concerns within the EU community.

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