Romana Jerković faces scrutiny over EU-funded Strasbourg trip

Croatian MEP Romana Jerković Kraljić is facing scrutiny following reports by Politico regarding a study visit to Strasbourg in December 2024. The trip, funded by the Socialists and Democrats (S&D) group in the European Parliament, reportedly included family members, friends, and associates.

Investigations suggest that some participants were listed in official documentation as medical professionals or professors from Rijeka health institutions, despite their actual occupations not matching these descriptions. Specific attendees mentioned include Jerković’s sister, an actor, and an art historian. The total cost of the event was initially reported to be over 12,000 euros, including two working dinners costing 1,120 euros each.

Jerković has defended her actions, stating that the event was conducted according to European Parliament and S&D rules. She claimed the actual cost was 8,218.45 euros and characterized the discrepancies in participant job titles as “unintentional administrative errors” caused by a new staff member. She also noted that she personally covered the costs for her sister's participation. The SDP party has called for transparency and stated they expect Jerković to take responsibility if any irregularities are proven.