In a major event that has surprised European politics, Belgian police have arrested Federica Mogherini, the European Union's former foreign policy chief. She is part of a large investigation into corruption. The European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) is leading the investigation. It is looking into claims of financial mismanagement involving the European Diplomatic Academy. This is an important training program for new EU diplomats. Along with Mogherini, Stefano Sannino, a former senior official in the EU's diplomatic service, and a director from the College of Europe were also detained.
The arrests happened after police raids in Belgium. Officers searched several important locations. These included the headquarters of the EU's diplomatic service in Brussels and buildings of the College of Europe in Bruges. Some private homes were also searched. Investigators are focusing on financial activities from the time the academy was created. This was under Mogherini's leadership, and later when Sannino was the top administrative official.
The effects of this scandal are serious and touch the EU's core values. Mogherini was a very high-profile politician, leading EU foreign policy from 2014 to 2019. Later, she became the head of the College of Europe, a famous university that trains many future EU leaders. Because this institution is so closely linked to the EU, its connection to the investigation is very damaging.
The case also shows how the investigation reaches the highest levels of EU administration. Sannino had a central role in running foreign policy when the academy began. The academy was meant to build a united diplomatic culture for the EU, so the corruption claims are especially troubling.
The institutions involved have been unusually quiet, which experts say shows the situation's seriousness. The investigation continues, and the three individuals are being questioned. The EPPO's role confirms the allegations are major, as this body specializes in crimes against the EU's budget.
This scandal will likely have long-lasting political consequences. It comes at a time when people are paying more attention to how the EU manages its money. The image of a former foreign policy chief being arrested has shaken diplomatic communities and raised deep concerns about accountability in the EU's most respected institutions.