Calls for Accountability for Far-Right Group

According to an internal investigation, at least €4.3 million in public funds were misused by the now-dissolved far-right “Identity and Democracy” (ID) group in the European Parliament during the last legislative term. Investigations by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office are ongoing, but so far, no consequences have been imposed. In response, Transparency International’s Brussels office has filed a complaint with the EU Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF).

In this week’s plenary session in the European Parliament, the Greens/EFA will put their demands for a full investigation and the withholding of funds to a vote against PfE.

MEP Daniel Freund, Greens/EFA Coordinator in the Committee on Budgetary Control, comments:

"The ID group has simply rebranded itself as the 'Patriots.' The same structures, the same people, and the same potential for corruption remain in place. It is time for real consequences and for full accountability.

"The millions allegedly stolen or misused by the ID group must be recovered. The far right treats the EU like a cash cow. The very people who denounce the EU as corrupt are enriching themselves at its expense. This systematic fraud against Europe’s citizens must end."

More:

Watch today’s and tomorrow’s plenary debates live, featuring speeches by Daniel Freund: https://www.europarl.europa.eu/plenary/en/home.html 
Vote on Wednesday (29 April), from around 12 noon
Press conference with Daniel Freund: Wednesday (29 April) at 10 am in the European Parliament’s press room