European Parliament and European Public Prosecutor’s Office Enhance Cooperation
Strasbourg, 28 November 2024 – The European Parliament (EP) and the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) have signed an agreement to strengthen their cooperation in the fight against fraud, corruption, and other cross-border crimes affecting the European Union’s financial interests.
The agreement, signed by EP President Roberta Metsola and EPPO Chief Prosecutor Laura Codruța Kövesi, establishes a formal framework for regular exchanges of information, mutual assistance, and joint initiatives.
Key Objectives of the Agreement
- Enhance coordination and cooperation in investigating and prosecuting cross-border crimes
- Facilitate the exchange of information, evidence, and other materials
- Provide mutual assistance in obtaining witness statements and executing search and seizure warrants
- Develop joint training programs and capacity-building activities
- Promote public awareness about the EPPO’s activities and responsibilities
Benefits of Enhanced Cooperation
The agreement will enable the EP and EPPO to:
- Improve the effectiveness of investigations and prosecutions
- Reduce duplication of efforts and streamline procedures
- Ensure a more coordinated approach to combating fraud and corruption
- Increase transparency and accountability in the use of EU funds
- Protect the financial interests of the European Union and its citizens
Quotes from Key Figures
EP President Roberta Metsola: “This agreement marks a significant step forward in our joint efforts to combat fraud and corruption and protect the financial interests of the European Union. By enhancing cooperation between the EP and EPPO, we will strengthen our ability to investigate and prosecute these crimes.”
EPPO Chief Prosecutor Laura Codruța Kövesi: “The EPPO is committed to working closely with the European Parliament to ensure the effective implementation of EU law and the protection of the financial interests of the Union. This agreement will provide us with a solid foundation for enhanced cooperation, coordination, and mutual support.”
Background
The EPPO is an independent and decentralized judicial body established in 2017 to investigate and prosecute fraud, corruption, and other serious crimes affecting the EU’s financial interests. The EP has a key role in overseeing the EPPO’s operations through its Committee on Budgetary Control and the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs.
The agreement between the EP and EPPO is the latest in a series of initiatives aimed at strengthening cooperation between EU institutions in the fight against fraud and corruption. The EP has also signed similar agreements with the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) and the European Court of Auditors (ECA).
Press release – The EP and the EPPO sign an agreement to enhance cooperation
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