The change is now. Finally in 2023. The President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola announced Thursday a “package of far-reaching reforms” for next year. They aim to prevent corruption scandals, such as the one involving Qatar, from once again shaking the institution. Among the measures already mentioned, the strengthening of the protection of whistleblowers and the prohibition of unofficial friendship groups with third countries. “There are gaps that need to be filled, for example with regard to the activities of former members of the European Parliament, entries in the transparency register, people authorized to enter the European Parliament”, she said. recognized at a press conference.
Meeting in plenary session in Strasbourg, the MEPs for their part voted almost unanimously for a text in which they “urge the suspension of the access permits of the representatives of Qatari interests” during the judicial inquiries. This decision must then be taken by the President of the European Parliament. In Brussels, Roberta Metsola has already specified that the NGO “No Peace Without Justice”, which is “presumed to be linked to the ongoing investigation”, had seen its access suspended.
“Concerns” about Qatar
The European Parliament on Tuesday stripped of its vice-presidency the Greek MEP Eva Kaili, suspected of being involved in this scandal and currently detained. His companion, Francesco Giorgi, is also in pre-trial detention, as is former MEP Pier-Antonio Panzeri. A third man, Niccolo Figa-Talamanca, head of the NGO “No Peace Without Justice”, was to be released by wearing an electronic bracelet.
In response to a question, Roberta Metsola said at a press conference that she had declined an invitation from Qatar to attend the FIFA World Cup. “I declined because I have concerns about this country,” she said. She specified that she had “two meetings with representatives of the Qatari government in Brussels”, and that she had “refused” a request from this country to address the European Parliament. Doha has denied being involved in any bribery attempts.