EU Parliament’s reputation at stake in access debate, new anti-fraud chief says

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🗞️ Driving the news: The head of the EU’s anti-fraud watchdog warns that a dispute over investigators’ access to the European Parliament could damage the reputation of EU institutions if not resolved soon.

🔭 The context: Petr Klement, the new director-general of European Anti‑Fraud Office (OLAF), says the agency still faces obstacles when trying to search parliamentary offices or access digital devices during investigations
• The issue gained prominence during the Qatargate scandal in 2022, when investigators alleged attempts by foreign governments to influence decisions in the European Parliament
• OLAF investigators complained they were blocked from accessing offices and laptops belonging to Members of the European Parliament

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Strong transparency and anti-corruption oversight are critical for credible climate and environmental policymaking in the EU
• If investigative bodies cannot fully examine potential misconduct, public trust in environmental legislation, from emissions standards to energy transition funding, could weaken, risking slower implementation of policies central to Europe’s climate goals
• Klement argues that EU institutions have a “moral obligation” to embrace transparency, and that the upcoming review of the EU’s anti-fraud framework offers an opportunity to clarify OLAF’s powers

💬 One quote: “EU institutions have a moral obligation to embrace transparency.” — Petr Klement, Director-General of OLAF

📈 One stat: OLAF concluded eight cases involving European Parliament staff members in 2025, according to its latest annual report

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