EU Establishes “Ethics Institution”
The European Union (EU) has established an “ethics institution” to prevent corruption involving officials working in EU institutions, in response to a corruption investigation link to the European Parliament (EP). Vera Jourova, Vice President of the European Commission, announced at a press conference that the institution will set common standards for gifts, additional payments, meetings and travel expenses for EU officials. The new structure aims to “shed a clear light” on the actions of politicians and to develop high standards and encourage best practices. Negotiations with nine EU institutions will begin on 3 July, and these institutions include the EU Commission, the European Parliament, the European Court of Justice, the Court of Accounts, the European Central Bank and others. Last year, a corruption investigation led by the Belgian authorities resulted in the detention of several individuals, including Greek deputy Eva Kaili and Italian MP Andrea Cozzolino, among others. Approximately 1.5 million euros were seized during searches of the homes and workplaces of some suspects. All those detained in the investigation in Belgium were released on probation over time. The establishment of the ethics institution reflects the EU’s commitment to preventing corruption and maintaining citizens’ trust in EU institutions.
