Nikos Pappas’ immunity lifted after online defamation claim

The European Parliament decided on 26 March 2026 to waive the parliamentary immunity of Greek MEP Nikos Pappas.

• The request came from the Greek General Prosecutor’s Office on 10 September 2025, asking that Pappas be allowed to face criminal charges for alleged defamation and insult.
• The alleged offence happened on 20 March 2024 during an online interview, when Pappas supposedly made false, insulting statements about a journalist.
• Pappas was not an MEP when the offence occurred; he was elected to the Parliament in June 2024, and the complaint was filed on 10 June 2024.
• The Parliament found no evidence that the case was aimed at undermining his political activity (no “fumus persecutionis”).
• Parliamentary immunity protects actions taken in the course of parliamentary duties, not private conduct.
• Because the alleged acts are unrelated to his duties, the Parliament concluded that immunity should be waived.
• The decision orders the Parliament’s President to send the waiver and the committee report to the Greek authorities and to Pappas.

Broader Context

Parliamentary Immunity in the EU
Parliamentary immunity is a legal protection given to Members of the European Parliament (MEPs). It means that MEPs cannot be prosecuted or arrested for things they say or do as part of their official duties. This protection is important because it allows MEPs to speak freely and do their job without fear of legal consequences. However, this immunity does not cover actions taken outside their official role—like private interviews or personal statements.

Why Does It Exist?
The idea is to protect democracy. MEPs should be able to debate, criticize, and propose laws without being silenced by lawsuits or political pressure. But if an MEP breaks the law in their private life, they can still be held responsible, just like any other citizen.

How Is Immunity Waived?
If a country’s legal authorities want to prosecute an MEP for something not related to their official duties, they can ask the European Parliament to waive the MEP’s immunity. The Parliament then reviews the request to make sure it’s not politically motivated and that the case is valid.

Impact on EU Citizens

Equal Treatment Under the Law
This decision shows that no one, not even elected officials, is above the law. If an MEP is accused of breaking the law in their private life, they can be investigated and tried, just like any other person. This helps maintain trust in the legal system and ensures fairness for all citizens.

Protection of Free Speech and Responsibility
While MEPs have the right to free speech in their official role, they are still responsible for what they say and do outside of it. This balance protects both democracy and individual rights. Citizens can expect their representatives to be accountable for their private actions, which helps keep public figures honest and responsible.

Transparency in Politics
When the European Parliament makes decisions about immunity, it must explain its reasons. This transparency helps citizens understand how their institutions work and why certain decisions are made. It also prevents the misuse of immunity for personal or political gain.