Stefano Sanino, a former senior official at the European Commission, has returned to his post at the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs after being embroiled in a scandal concerning the misuse of community funds. This return follows his early departure from his duties last December when he was arrested by Belgian police as part of an investigation into the "EEAS-gate" case, which involves alleged misappropriation of EU funds linked to a diplomatic academy in Bruges. His involvement in this high-profile case has raised significant concerns about accountability within the European Union's institutions.

Sanino held a prominent position within the EU as the director-general at DG MENA, which covers the Middle East, the Gulf, and North Africa. His role placed him at the center of EU diplomatic efforts in these vital regions, making his quick return to Italian diplomacy noteworthy. However, the implications of his previous involvement in a scandal that has attracted public and media scrutiny highlight ongoing challenges within EU governance, particularly about transparency in the handling of EU budgets and administration.

The investigations have also implicated former European foreign affairs chief Federica Mogherini, who, along with Sanino, was briefly detained following raids by authorities at key locations, including the EU diplomatic service headquarters in Brussels and the College of Europe. This unfolding scandal not only raises questions about the integrity of EU officials but also stresses the need for reforms in the supervisory mechanisms overseeing the use of EU funds, as maintaining public trust in EU institutions is paramount for their credibility and efficacy.