The biggest, most shameful corruption scandal in Brussels

The accusation, in short, is illegal lobbying of Qatar's interests in the European Parliament.

The "star" of the investigation is the ex-presenter of Greek TV, the most glamorous member of the European Parliament Eva Kaili.

I will prove an example to understand the level and nature of lobbying. During the scandal over the Qatari government's slave treatment of workers during the construction of World Cup facilities, she publicly defended herself, claiming that significant changes had taken place in Qatar.

Another example: the European delegation was supposed to go to Qatar to assess the government's efforts to introduce changes in ​​workers' rights. In the end, Qatar invited only one representative - Eva Kaili - who spoke to the local media with favorable assessments of the reforms carried out.

"During the scandal surrounding the slave treatment by the Qatari government of the workers during the construction of the World Cup facilities, she came out with a public defense, claiming that significant changes had taken place in Qatar."

The case involves 2 NGOs that actually acted as lobbyists without being properly registered.

Metsola had already stripped Eva Kaili of her authority, as far as Metsola's status allowed.  Further decisions on removal of untouchability, exclusion from parties, committees, etc. will be made in the near future, mostly at the EP meeting.

The Greek party, of which Kaili was a member, has already expelled her.

"The EU is planning hearings on changing the rules. Among other things, the issue of creating an independent body on ethics and stricter rules for regulating lobbying and responsibility for violations is being considered."

MPs, parliamentary assistants and other officials/politicians, related to these NGOs, are cutting ties witht hem. Those who held positions in supervisory boards, etc. have resigned.

In the coming days, the visa-free issue for Qatar was supposed to be considered. It is expected to be withdrawn with no further date of consideration set.

A delegation of MEPs was also supposed to visit the Persian Gulf. The visit will take place, but Doha will be bypassed. As a result, Qatar's fiercest competitor in the Middle East — Saudi Arabia — will receive all the attention

The EU is planning hearings on changing the rules. Among other things, the issue of creating an independent body on ethics and stricter rules for regulating lobbying and responsibility for violations is being considered.

About the author: Ahia Zahrebelska, Ukrainian lawyer, state commissioner of the Antimonopoly Committee of Ukraine (2015-2019).

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