Belgian law enforcement officials have detained three individuals and executed a series of raids at the European External Action Service (EEAS) and the College of Europe as part of an investigation into alleged fraudulent activities linked to EU-sponsored training programs for junior diplomats.
Details of the investigation
The coordinated searches, initiated at the request of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) and sanctioned by an investigating judge, unfolded in various locations including the EEAS headquarters in Brussels, premises of the College of Europe in Bruges, and several private residences. This operation aims to scrutinize activities connected to the European Union Diplomatic Academy, which provides training for junior diplomats from member states.
Allegations of misconduct
According to a statement issued by the EPPO, there are “strong suspicions” that violations of “fair competition” regulations occurred, particularly concerning the sharing of sensitive information related to procurement processes with candidates competing for the tender. This revelation has raised serious concerns about the integrity of the procurement methods employed in the training program.
“Confidential information related to the ongoing procurement was shared with one of the candidates participating in the tender,”
the EPPO stated, highlighting the gravity of the situation and the potential implications for the involved parties. Further updates are expected as the investigation unfolds.