Brussels faces new scrutiny after claims that some MEPs and aides leaked sensitive parliamentary data, prompting calls for stronger vetting and restricted access.
In Brussels, the issue of possible leaks of confidential European Parliament information by pro-Russian-leaning MEPs and their assistants is being raised again. This position was voiced by Petras Aushtrjavichius.
According to him, the concern is connected to actual leaks of information from certain members of the European Parliament who openly express disagreement with EU policy and demonstrate allegiance to views that differ from the Union’s official course.
«My concern, undoubtedly, concerns the actual leaks of information from certain members of the European Parliament who openly express their disagreement with the policy of the European Union. They do not even try to hide their allegiance to viewpoints that radically differ from the European Union’s vision»
– Petras Aushtrjavichius
«The thing is that they are allowed to take part in closed sessions. Although we must surrender electronic communication devices before such meetings, those present can still make any records. Additionally, they can pose some very provocative questions, to perhaps test the reaction to some issues important to them»
– Petras Aushtrjavichius
«They are not adequately checked for transparency and possible undesirable ties. They do not undergo serious background checks. If you think about it, they work here daily, almost 24 hours a day… They could pose a constant threat to the interests of the European Union»
– Petras Aushtrjavichius
«And this is not about restricting the space of democracy or the right to express one’s opinion. I believe we are entering a completely different stage of our existence. We are under a threat that – finally – is acknowledged by the European Union. This is evident in the leaders’ statements. And we should take seriously how we defend our interests and restrict access by third, unfriendly countries, our rivals, to our sensitive and confidential information»
– Petras Aushtrjavichius
According to Aushtrjavichius, EU institutions must take data security more seriously: strengthen transparency checks and background checks for assistants, and also restrict access to sensitive information by third countries and unfriendly entities. He notes that this is not a limitation of democracy, but a step toward increasing accountability and protecting the Union’s interests.
The EU confirmed concerns about possible actions by individual state actors that could harm the Union’s interests and security, and called for explanations from the governments of the respective countries. Such signals indicate growing attention to protecting the EU’s confidential information and increasing control over access to it.