Rector Federica Mogherini and Stefanno Sannino resign over EU funds misuse

Rector Federica Mogherini and Stefanno Sannino Resign Over EU Funds Misuse

In a significant development within the European Union, Federica Mogherini, the Rector of the College of Europe, and Stefanno Sannino, the Director-General of the European Commission for the Middle East, North Africa, and Gulf countries, have both resigned from their positions amid serious allegations of misuse of EU funds. The resignations were announced on Thursday, December 4, 2025, and have sent shockwaves through the EU"s political landscape.

Key Details

Federica Mogherini, who previously served as the Vice-President of the Juncker Commission and the High Representative for Foreign Affairs, has been a prominent figure in EU diplomacy. Her role as Rector of the College of Europe, an institution dedicated to training future leaders in European affairs, was seen as a continuation of her commitment to EU governance. Stefanno Sannino, who worked closely with Mogherini, held a critical position overseeing relations with key regions, including the Middle East and North Africa.

The allegations against both officials include procurement fraud, corruption, conflict of interest, and violation of professional secrecy. These serious charges suggest a breach of trust and ethical standards expected from high-ranking EU officials. The specific details surrounding the allegations have not been fully disclosed, but they have raised significant concerns regarding the integrity of EU institutions.

The scandal has prompted a swift response from the highest levels of the European Commission. Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, and Kaja Kallas, the EU"s top diplomat, have distanced themselves from Mogherini and Sannino. As their supervisors, von der Leyen and Kallas are under scrutiny for their oversight responsibilities, which were intended to prevent such misconduct from occurring.

In light of the unfolding scandal, EU-focused media outlets such as POLITICO and Euractiv have entered damage control mode. They have cautioned readers against discussing the implications of the story, warning that it could validate extremist views that portray the EU as a corrupt entity incapable of self-regulation. This reaction underscores the sensitive nature of the allegations and the potential impact on public perception of the EU"s governance.

Background

Federica Mogherini"s career has been marked by her involvement in key diplomatic initiatives within the EU, particularly during her tenure as High Representative for Foreign Affairs, where she played a crucial role in shaping the EU"s foreign policy. Her appointment as Rector of the College of Europe was seen as a prestigious role, aimed at fostering a new generation of European leaders. Stefanno Sannino, similarly, has been influential in shaping EU policies in the Middle East and North Africa, regions of critical importance to European security and foreign relations.

The allegations of misuse of EU funds come at a time when the European Union is grappling with various challenges, including economic recovery post-COVID-19, geopolitical tensions, and internal divisions among member states. The integrity of EU institutions is paramount for maintaining public trust and effective governance.

What"s Next

The resignations of Mogherini and Sannino are likely to lead to further investigations into the allegations of misconduct. The European Commission may initiate formal inquiries to assess the validity of the claims and determine the extent of any wrongdoing. Additionally, the fallout from this scandal could have broader implications for the EU"s reputation and its ability to govern effectively.

As the situation develops, stakeholders within the EU will be closely monitoring the outcomes of any investigations and the potential reforms that may arise from this incident. The need for transparency and accountability in EU governance has never been more critical, especially in light of the current political climate.

For further context on recent developments in international politics, see our coverage on Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum"s upcoming meeting with U.S. President Trump.