ATHENS – In a decisive vote on Thursday, the Hellenic Parliament lifted the parliamentary immunity of former European Commissioner Dimitris Avramopoulos, a 73‑year‑old lawmaker from the ruling New Democracy party. The move removes a key legal shield and allows Belgian prosecutors to continue their investigation into the sprawling “Qatargate” corruption scandal that has implicated several EU officials.
Background on the case
Qatargate emerged in 2022 when investigators alleged that Qatar paid bribes – both cash and through non‑profit organisations – to influence European Union policy making. The scandal has led to multiple arrests and the issuance of European arrest warrants, including one against Avramopoulos in June.
Parliamentary vote and reaction
Avramopoulos, a former mayor of Athens and a long‑time member of New Democracy, has consistently denied any wrongdoing. He told Greek media that he intends to appear voluntarily before Belgian authorities. The parliament’s decision, however, means he can no longer claim immunity from arrest or prosecution.
Legal proceedings in Belgium
A Belgian investigating judge issued the arrest warrant on accusations of participation in a criminal group, public corruption and money laundering. Belgian officials have not yet responded to requests for comment. In related raids, Belgian authorities seized roughly €1.5 million in cash, some of which was found hidden in a suitcase at a Brussels hotel.
Avramopoulos’ past ties
From 2014 to 2019, Avramopoulos served as the European Commissioner for Migration. Between 2020 and 2021, he acted as an honorary board member for Fight Impunity, an NGO that has been linked to the Qatargate investigation. In a June statement, he described his involvement with the NGO as “lawful, audited, approved” and called the Belgian authorities’ association of his name with the case “arbitrary, unacceptable, suspicious.”
International context
Qatar has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing in the affair, and the European Union continues to grapple with the political fallout. The case underscores ongoing concerns about foreign influence on EU policy and the mechanisms for holding officials accountable.
What comes next?
With immunity removed, Avramopoulos faces the possibility of arrest and formal questioning in Belgium. Greek authorities have not indicated any further domestic action at this stage, but the parliamentary decision signals a willingness to cooperate with European partners in pursuing the investigation.
The development adds another chapter to a scandal that has already shaken confidence in EU institutions and highlighted the need for robust anti‑corruption safeguards.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
