MEPs Demand Resignation of Hungarian Commissioner Várhelyi Amid Spying Allegations

Thirty-five Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have called on European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to seek the resignation of Hungarian Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi in light of serious allegations concerning espionage. The request, conveyed in a letter dated March 2024, involves MEPs from four political groups: the Socialists and Democrats (S&D), Renew Europe, Greens/EFA, and The Left.

The controversy surrounding Várhelyi stems from a joint investigation conducted by several European media outlets. This investigation reported that between 2012 and 2018, Hungary’s foreign intelligence service allegedly utilized the country’s permanent representation in Brussels as a base for spying on EU institutions and recruiting officials. Notably, these operations occurred while Várhelyi served as Hungary’s ambassador to the EU from 2015 to 2019.

Following these revelations, the European Commission’s chief spokesperson confirmed that von der Leyen had discussed the allegations with Várhelyi, who asserted he had no knowledge of any recruitment efforts during his tenure. The MEPs who signed the letter expressed that if the allegations are validated, Várhelyi’s credibility and trustworthiness would be significantly compromised.

Legal Framework and Political Implications

The MEPs urged von der Leyen to act in accordance with Article 17 of the Treaty on the European Union, which grants the Commission president the authority to demand a commissioner’s resignation. This appeal aligns with a broader call from over 60 academics across the EU, associated with the Good Lobby professors’ network. They argued that the alleged actions of Várhelyi conflict with the independence required of all European Commissioners, who are expected to serve in the general interest of the EU rather than the interests of their home countries.

While the European Parliament does not possess the power to mandate the resignation of individual commissioners, it can initiate a no-confidence vote against the entire Commission. This avenue has been attempted three times in recent months, but without success. Nevertheless, sources from the European Parliament indicated that MEPs could potentially endorse a resolution demanding Várhelyi’s resignation.

The unfolding situation highlights the complex dynamics within EU governance, particularly concerning issues of trust and integrity among its officials. As scrutiny intensifies, the implications of these allegations may extend beyond Várhelyi, potentially affecting the broader perception of the European Commission’s commitment to transparency and accountability.