Europe

Four EU Lawmakers Face Immunity Loss in Huawei Probe

MAY 22 2025·Updated MAY 24 2025

Story

Above: The Chinese telecom giant Huawei's emblem is shown on a smartphone in front of an EU flag in this March 13, 2025, illustration photo shot in Brussels. Image credit: Nicolas Tucat/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images

The Facts

Belgian authorities have formally requested the European Parliament to lift the immunity of four Members of European Parliament (MEPs) in connection with an investigation into alleged corruption linked to Chinese tech giant Huawei. The request involved three MEPs from the European People's Party (EPP), one Maltese Socialist, and one Renew Europe member — though one name was removed from the list on Thursday.
Politico
EuroNews
Eunews
The investigation centers on allegations of corruption and illicit lobbying practices with prosecutors examining whether MEPs received improper benefits including football match tickets and other incentives in exchange for promoting Huawei's interests.
MaltaToday.mt
EuroNews
Maltese Socialist MEP Daniel Attard and Bulgarian Renew Europe MEP Nikola Minchev have publicly acknowledged being under investigation, with both cases involving attendance at football matches in Huawei's corporate box at the Anderlecht stadium in Brussels.
MaltaToday.mt
Politico
Italian EPP member Salvatore De Meo confirmed his involvement relates to attending an informal meeting where Huawei representatives were present, though he maintains he never promoted the company's interests through legislative actions.
Brusselstimes
European Conservative
Belgian authorities are investigating whether lawmakers received compensation for signing a 2021 letter to European Commissioners arguing against letting geopolitical tensions hinder 5G development — a position favorable to Huawei.
EuroNews
European Conservative
The Legal Affairs Committee of the European Parliament will assess each request for immunity waivers to allow for investigations to proceed. Each of the MEPs concerned will have the opportunity to present their case in the investigation. Ultimately, the decision on whether to maintain their immunities will be made through a vote, which requires a simple majority.
EuroNews
Euractiv

Sources Split

LEFT

CENTER

RIGHT

ESTAB
CRIT

CENTER

PRO
ESTAB

The Spin

Narrative A

This case highlights how foreign companies seek to influence EU policymaking through a complex system of gifts, paid trips, and indirect financial incentives. The strategy of targeting specific Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) and utilizing corporate hospitality to discuss business interests demonstrates a calculated effort to improperly sway European policy, especially concerning sensitive Chinese 5G infrastructure.

Corporate Europe Observatory

Transparency International EU

Brusselstimes

Narrative B

The investigation represents dangerous overreach that trivializes legitimate parliamentary work and weakens democratic institutions. The MEPs involved were simply conducting routine diplomatic and legislative duties, with no evidence of improper influence. Many of the questioned interactions, such as attending sporting events, were innocent social gatherings with no corrupt intent.