The European Parliament has determined that the far-right political group “Patriots for Europe” must return 276,967 euros to the European Union. This sum pertains to funds allegedly misused by the group during the latter half of 2024. An audit conducted by the European Parliament’s financial department revealed several irregularities.
Specifically, the investigation found instances of irregular donations and violations of established public procurement rules. Furthermore, the audit noted that contracts were awarded through improper procedures. A significant concern highlighted by the review was that a portion of the service contracts awarded were given to companies with close affiliations to the French far-right party, Rassemblement National.
The “Patriots for Europe” group is noted to include several established European political parties, such as Fidesz, Vox, FPÖ, Vlaams Belang, and ANO 2011, according to reports. This scrutiny followed the revelation that the group had already dissolved the entity known as Identity and Democra. The decision mandates that the group must return the specified funds to the European Union.
The findings underscore concerns regarding financial governance and adherence to EU regulations within the political sphere. The Parliament’s action emphasizes the need for accountability regarding the handling of European resources by affiliated political entities.
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