Federica Mogherini, former EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, has resigned as director of the College of Europe following formal charges in a corruption investigation. The case involves allegations of favoritism in a European Commission contract related to training future diplomats.
Investigation Details
Mogherini, who led the EU External Action Service from 2014 to 2019, was interrogated for ten hours by Belgian federal police in Bruges, where the College of Europe is based, before being released. The investigation is ongoing.
The European Public Prosecutor’s Office has charged Mogherini along with two other officials:
- Cesare Segretti, co-director of the College responsible for education and programs, and
- Stefano Sanino, a senior European Commission official, who recently resigned from his post.
The inquiry focuses on suspected fraud and corruption in public contract awards, conflicts of interest, and breaches of professional confidentiality during 2021–2022. Authorities are examining whether the College of Europe was given an unfair advantage in securing a contract to train EU diplomats.
Mogherini’s Response
Mogherini has denied any wrongdoing and stated that the College has always upheld the highest standards of integrity and fairness. Her lawyer, Mariapaola Kerki, told the press that the former EU diplomat cooperated “with full transparency” during the interrogation. No travel restrictions were imposed following her release.
Implications
The resignation of Mogherini and the ongoing investigation have drawn attention in Brussels, raising questions about governance and oversight in EU institutions. Authorities have emphasized that the three suspects were released because there was no risk of flight.
Mogherini remains confident that the legal process will recognize the College of Europe’s compliance with ethical and professional standards, while the investigation continues.
