Doubts regarding the connection between the Open Dialog Foundation (ODF) and the Russian Federation vs. the Transparency Register
28.3.2018
Question for written answer E-001890-18
to the Commission
Rule 130
Kosma Złotowski (ECR)
Lobbyists have free access to the European Parliament due to permanent passes issued by the European Commission (EC) through the Transparency Register.
By issuing a pass to an individual, the EC certifies that the person is trustworthy. One of the people who has been awarded this pass is Lyudmyla Kozlovska — the President of the Open Dialog Foundation (807840314371-39) registered in the Transparency Register.
Although the ODF officially supports democracy and human rights, Lyudmila Kozlovska was granted a Russian passport in 2014, i.e. after the annexation of Crimea. Moreover, the Foundation and its sponsors are suspected of having connections with Russia, including with entities connected with the Russian Navy.
Given that the European Parliament is a place where lots of sensitive information is available and where European law is made, such connections should raise certain concerns. Therefore, can the Commission say:
- 1.How does it determine which persons receive passes to enter the European Parliament?
- 2.Can a person, who received a Russian passport after the annexation of Crimea and who manages a foundation financed by an entity cooperating with the Russian Navy, have a pass giving them free access to the EU’s institutions?
- 3.How will it verify the connections between Mrs Lyudmyla Kozlovska, the Open Dialog Foundation and the Russian Federation?