Former EU diplomat Mogherini resigns following fraud accusation

Federica Mogherini, who served as the European Union's top diplomat until 2019, has stepped down from her leadership position in Belgium following her detention for questioning in an anti-corruption inquiry. The probe, initiated by the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO), centers on alleged fraud linked to the awarding of an EU-funded training program for junior diplomats at the College of Europe.

Mogherini, 52, led the prestigious Bruges-based institute. She, along with another college staff member and a senior European Commission official, was questioned over the investigation this week. After approximately 10 hours of questioning, she was released and issued a statement affirming her "full confidence in the justice system."

While not directly addressing the allegations, Mogherini emphasized that the College of Europe has consistently upheld "the highest standards of integrity and fairness" and will continue to do so. She added, "I will obviously continue to offer my full collaboration to the authorities."

In a statement announcing her resignation on Thursday, Mogherini expressed pride in the accomplishments achieved during her tenure and said she decided to step down as rector "in line with the utmost rigour and fairness with which I always carried out my duties."

The news of her detention, a prominent figure in EU circles, came at a sensitive time for the European Union, which recently urged Ukraine to address a high-level corruption case. As rector of the College of Europe, Mogherini played a key role in launching the EU Diplomatic Academy in 2022, aimed at cultivating a European diplomatic corps.

EU prosecutors indicated that their investigation is examining whether the selection process for a nine-month training program awarded to the College by the EU's European External Action Service was conducted fairly. The Diplomatic Academy was confirmed last year as a collaboration between the College of Europe and the EU, with Mogherini appointed as its director.

Analysis: Mogherini Resignation Amid EU Corruption Probe

Federica Mogherini's decision to step down as rector of the College of Europe follows her recent questioning by the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) in a probe concerning alleged irregularities in the awarding of an EU-funded training program. Her resignation signals a cautious approach amid ongoing investigations, emphasizing procedural integrity over personal defense.

The EPPO investigation is focused on the fairness of the selection process for the EU Diplomatic Academy program, a high-profile initiative launched in 2022 under Mogherini's leadership. Authorities are examining whether EU funds were allocated according to established rules, with questions raised about the transparency and governance of the College of Europe.

Mogherini, while maintaining her confidence in the justice system, did not directly address the allegations but reaffirmed her commitment to collaboration with investigators. Her statement underscores the College’s longstanding emphasis on integrity and fair practice, reflecting the institution's sensitivity to reputational risk within EU institutions.

This development occurs at a politically sensitive time for the EU, which has been pressing Ukraine to address high-level corruption. The case illustrates the EU's broader effort to ensure accountability and transparency, not only externally but also within its own funded programs and initiatives.

Sources:

• EU's former top diplomat Mogherini resigns from post after fraud accusation

Author: Lucas Grant
Lucas Grant is a sports journalist with extensive experience covering football and basketball championships. Known for factual accuracy and an engaging, dynamic writing style.