In an unusual step, the European Public Prosecutor’s Office confirmed it has opened an investigation into the Covid-19 contracts signed by the European Union, a move that comes shortly after numerous members of the European Parliament harshly criticized a lack of transparency surrounding an agreement with Pfizer.
The EPPO is an independent public prosecution office that is responsible for investigating, prosecuting, and bringing to judgment crimes such as fraud, money laundering and corruption against the financial interests of the EU. The EPPO did not, however, specify what it is investigating in its brief announcement about its probe into Covid-19 contracts. “This exceptional confirmation comes after the extremely high public interest,” the EPPO stated. “No further details will be made public at this stage.”
Nonetheless, the confirmation is likely to maintain controversy around European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and her role in securing a vaccine contract with Pfizer. Last year, reports disclosed a series of text messages that were exchanged between von der Leyen and Pfizer chief executive officer Albert Bourla prior to closing a deal for 1.8 billion vaccine doses, which has proven to be the biggest EU Covid-19 vaccine contract.
This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers
Unlock this article — plus in-depth analysis, newsletters, premium events, and networking platform access.
Already have an account? Log in
Already have an account? Log in
About the Author Reprints
To submit a correction request, please visit our Contact Us page.
STAT encourages you to share your voice. We welcome your commentary, criticism, and expertise on our subscriber-only platform, STAT+ Connect