Qatargate: Belgian Prosecutor Seeks to Lift Immunity of Two More MEPs

Qatargate Scandal Expands as Belgian Authorities Seek to Investigate Two More MEPs

The Qatargate scandal first emerged in late 2022, when a series of high-profile arrests exposed allegations of foreign interference and corruption within the European Parliament. Former Socialist MEP Pier Antonio Panzeri, Parliamentary Assistant Francesco Giorgi, and Parliament Vice President Eva Kaili were among those detained in dramatic raids that uncovered bags of cash and raised serious concerns about EU democracy.

Now, Belgian authorities are seeking to investigate two additional Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), but the process will take time. Before any legal actions can proceed, the European Parliament must first go through a formal procedure to lift their parliamentary immunity. This step is expected to commence as soon as Monday, when Parliament President Roberta Metsola announces the judiciary’s request during a plenary session.

Following this, the European Parliament’s legal affairs committee will give the two MEPs an opportunity to present their defense before approving the measure. The final decision will then be put to a vote by the full assembly of lawmakers.

If the motion is passed later this month, Belgian authorities will gain the legal clearance to formally press charges against the Socialist lawmakers.

When approached for comments, a spokesperson for Metsola declined to provide a statement on the ongoing procedure. Similarly, a representative of the Socialists & Democrats group did not respond to inquiries.

Max Griera contributed to this report.