Updated ethics rules after scandals like Qatargate require stricter transparency on lobbying and gifts. But critics highlight concerns about outside jobs and enforcement. Introduced in 2012 and updated in 2023, the Code of Conduct ensures MEPs act with integrity, transparency and honesty, safeguarding public trust and the Parliament’s reputation. MEPs must declare any private interests or financial connections that might affect their public duties. MEPs can hold outside jobs, unlike some national lawmakers.
However, they must declare additional income over €5,000/year, a rule added after the Qatari lobbying scandal. They must declare gifts worth over €150.
A public registry records these gifts, while travel and accommodation paid for by third parties are also disclosed. MEPs violating the rulebook face sanctions, which are announced publicly in a plenary session. Hungary has proposed applying domestic-style rules to MEPs, including annual asset declarations covering family members in the same household. Under the draft law, MEPs would need to declare properties, vehicles, investments, and even family members’ assets. Italy introduced rules in 2016 for the Chamber of Deputies and in 2022 for the Senate. However, only the Senate’s code is binding, leading to criticism of enforcement. Deputies cannot accept gifts over €250.
Senators, however, are allowed to accept gifts under “customs of courtesy,” a vague standard that leaves room for interpretation.
Adopted in 2021, German MPs must disclose company stakes over 5%, past and current side jobs, and any other financial interests that could create conflicts. Bundestag members cannot accept payments without providing legitimate services. Penalties for bribery now range from 1 to 10 years in prison.
While MEPs follow comprehensive rules, they still allow outside jobs, leading to criticism. National rules vary significantly, creating gaps in transparency across the EU.