Renew Europe Group Supports Stronger Security Culture and Anti-Corruption Measures
Belgium (Brussels Morning Newspaper), In a resounding display of commitment to combatting foreign interference and corruption, the European Parliament has emphasized the urgent need for a stronger security culture and clearer internal rules on transparency, integrity, accountability, and anti-corruption. The adoption of the report on recommendations for reform by the Special Committee on foreign interference in all democratic processes in the European Union, including disinformation, and the strengthening of integrity, transparency, and accountability in the European Parliament (ING2) during the plenary session has been warmly welcomed by the Renew Europe Group.
MEP Nathalie Loiseau (Horizons, France), the Renew Europe rapporteur on the report, has expressed the Parliament’s determination to fortify security measures while enhancing transparency. In her statement, Loiseau declared, “Today, the European Parliament has expressed its strong resolve to combat malign foreign interference and fight corruption. Our recommendations are both ambitious and pragmatic, going far beyond President Metsola’s 14 points and the Commission’s proposal on an ethics body.”
The report acknowledges that the vast majority of Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) adhere to the current rules. However, to prevent any potential future instances like the Qatargate scandal, the report emphasizes the necessity of reviewing internal rules and procedures to ensure they do not inadvertently enable unlawful behavior. It also underscores the importance of countering foreign interference through a more stringent and dissuasive framework.
One of the key recommendations put forth in the report is the establishment of an enhanced clearance process for certain staffers, coupled with regular training for MEPs and staff. By implementing these measures, the European Parliament aims to bolster its internal defenses and minimize vulnerabilities to external manipulation.
Moreover, the report highlights the need to safeguard Parliament’s integrity during official missions and delegations. It proposes stringent measures to ensure that MEPs and staff act with utmost transparency and accountability while representing the European citizens. Strengthening the Transparency Register is also emphasized as a means to increase scrutiny of interest representatives lobbying the European Parliament.
The Renew Europe Group firmly supports these measures, advocating for a strong European Independent Ethics Body that surpasses the Commission’s proposal. The goal is to reinforce the accountability of all EU officials and maintain the European Parliament as the bastion of democracy, unwavering in the face of threats.
With the adoption of this report, the European Parliament takes a significant step forward in strengthening its security culture and addressing corruption concerns head-on. By acknowledging the importance of transparency, integrity, and accountability, the Parliament demonstrates its commitment to serving the interests of its citizens and maintaining the highest standards of democratic governance.
As the European Union moves forward, it is imperative for all stakeholders to unite in the fight against foreign interference and corruption. The European Parliament’s resolute stance sends a powerful message that it will not turn a blind eye to those who seek to undermine European democracy.
The adoption of the report is a positive development, signaling a renewed determination to fortify the European Parliament’s internal mechanisms and ensure a more transparent and accountable future. The stage is set for the European Union to lead by example and inspire other democratic institutions to follow suit in upholding the principles of integrity, transparency, and anti-corruption.
The European Parliament’s commitment to these values is unwavering, and it is through proactive measures like these that the Parliament reaffirms its role as the defender of democracy and guardian of the European citizens’ interests.
