Belgian authorities have launched an investigation into Didier Reynders, the former EU Commissioner for Justice, for alleged embezzlement and money laundering, just days after his term in the European Commission ended.
According to the spokesperson for the Brussels prosecutor’s office, the investigation concerns potential money laundering activities. Searches of Reynders’ homes were carried out as part of the probe. The investigation began shortly after Reynders’ term as EU Commissioner for Justice, which concluded over the weekend. He held the position since 2019.
While the prosecutor’s office declined to confirm reports linking the investigation to money laundering through Belgium’s national lottery, Belgian media outlets, including Suar and Le Soir, have suggested this connection. Reynders’ political group in the European Parliament, Renew Europe, declined to comment on the ongoing investigation.
As a former Belgian minister and EU Commissioner, any scandal involving Reynders would have significant implications for the European Commission, especially given his role in overseeing the enforcement of the rule of law and anti-corruption measures during his tenure.
Belgian police questioned Reynders, 66, on Tuesday, and conducted a search of his home in Brussels. His property in Wallonia was also reportedly searched. The investigation was opened in 2023 following allegations by the Belgian Financial Intelligence Unit and national lottery officials. Reynders is suspected of conducting money laundering activities through the purchase of lottery tickets while serving as a Belgian minister. The exact amount involved has not been specified.
Before becoming EU Commissioner, Reynders served in various Belgian government roles, including Minister of Finance (1999-2011) and Minister of Foreign Affairs (2011-2019). He was a candidate for reappointment as EU Commissioner, but his political party, the Reform Movement (MR), selected Hadja Lahbib for the role instead.
