Greek Lawmakers' Immunity Lifted Amid EU Farm Subsidy Scandal

The Greek parliament moved decisively on Wednesday to address a burgeoning corruption scandal by voting to lift the immunity of 13 lawmakers. The scandal, which has embroiled the ruling New Democracy party, revolves around alleged fraud concerning European Union farm subsidies.

European prosecutors have accused Greek stockbreeders of falsifying pastureland ownership to fraudulently obtain EU subsidies, reportedly with help from state workers and politicians. This issue has already led to ministerial resignations and a significant financial penalty imposed by the EU due to mismanagement by Greece's OPEKEPE agency.

The recent parliamentary decision allows for a thorough investigation into the involvement of key lawmakers without hindrance. Despite denying any wrongdoing, implicated individuals agreed to relinquish their immunity to facilitate the European Public Prosecutor's Office's independent investigation into crimes against the EU's financial interests.