Transparency International EU (TI EU) welcomes the European Commission’s decision to dismiss its former senior transport official Henrik Hololei, following revelations he had accepted flights paid for by Qatar while negotiating an aviation deal with the country. It would further transpire that he had allegedly exchanged information on the deal in exchange for gifts.
News of such blatant unethical conduct first broke almost three years ago. Although the process appears to have been particularly lengthy, it has culminated in the unprecedented dismissal of a top EU official. Though belated, the Commission’s decision is the correct one.
Shari Hinds, Senior Policy Officer for EU Political Integrity at TI EU said:
“It is encouraging that the European Commission finally appears to be dealing out consequences proportionate to the gravity of these ethics violations. This is an example of proper accountability that should be followed by all EU institutions.”
TI EU has followed this case since its revelation. The Commission has proven on this occasion that disciplinary measures are possible. It should not be deterred from using them swiftly, should future similar allegations emerge.
