A special committee of the European Parliament will investigate MEP Fernand Kartheiser for potential breaches of conduct rules. The probe follows his visit to Russia and circulation of a declaration supporting improved EU-Russia relations, raising concerns about an informal communication channel with the Russian State Duma.
The investigation into Fernand Kartheiser highlights ongoing tensions and scrutiny within the European Parliament regarding members' interactions with Russia, particularly in the context of the war in Ukraine and efforts to maintain diplomatic channels.
A special committee within the European Parliament is preparing to investigate Fernand Kartheiser, a Member of the European Parliament representing Luxembourg, for alleged violations of parliamentary conduct rules. The investigation stems from Kartheiser's recent visit to the economic forum in St. Petersburg and his subsequent distribution of a declaration to fellow MEPs and staff. This declaration expressed support for initiatives aimed at improving and normalizing relations between Russia and the European Union.
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola expressed serious concern in a letter to the chair of the Parliament's Advisory Committee. Metsola noted that Kartheiser's actions, including his visit to Russia and the content of the declaration, could create the impression of an informal communication channel between the European Parliament and the Russian State Duma. The letter also detailed that Kartheiser had engaged in four videoconferences and four in-person meetings with Russian politicians, two of which took place in Russia. The declaration, while purporting to speak on behalf of other MEPs, did not name any specific individuals.
Metsola has formally requested the Advisory Committee to examine the situation and determine if Kartheiser, or any other involved members, have breached the Code of Conduct. The rules in question include the obligation to disclose all meetings with representatives of public authorities of third countries on the Parliament's public platform and potentially receiving undisclosed financial compensation for such engagements. If found in breach, Kartheiser could face penalties ranging from a formal reprimand to more severe sanctions, such as being barred from external representation, losing parliamentary roles, or being denied access to confidential documents.
The European Parliament's Press Service, when contacted, declined to comment on the specifics of Kartheiser's case. They reiterated that the Parliament has maintained no cooperation with the Duma since 2014 and that any engagement by members with Russian diplomatic or governmental entities is undertaken in their sole personal capacity.