Immunity gone for former EIB staff pursued by prosecutors over corruption

The European Investment Bank (EIB) has lifted the immunity of two former employees in relation to an ongoing investigation into corruption, abuse of influence and misappropriation of EU funds.

The European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) has furthermore gained access to EIB premises, buildings and archives in Luxembourg as part of the investigation, which relates to suspicions reported to the EPPO by the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF).

The EPPO stated: "In line with their legal obligation under the Union law (Protocol 7 on the Privileges and Immunities of the EU), as specified by the Court of Justice of the European Union, the EIB has granted the lifting of the immunity of two former employees, which will allow the diligent and effective pursuit of the EPPO’s investigation."

"In strict compliance with the principles of the rule of law and the rights guaranteed in particular by the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU, this will make it possible to gather all the evidence needed, whether inculpatory or exculpatory, to shed full light on the facts under investigation. All persons concerned are presumed to be innocent until proven guilty in the competent courts of law."

"No further details will be made public about this ongoing investigation, in order not to endanger its outcome. Whenever there is something to communicate, the EPPO will do so proactively."

The EPPO is the independent public prosecution office of the European Union. It is responsible for investigating, prosecuting and bringing to judgment crimes against the financial interests of the EU.

Media reports point to former EIB president Werner Hoyer as being one of the two under investigation. He has dismissed the allegations. The former German MP and junior foreign minister headed the EIB from 2012-2023.