MEP Mikuláš Peksa (Greens/EFA) has submitted a parliamentary question to the European Commission, raising concerns about a potential conflict of interest involving Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš and his ownership of the biotechnology company SynBiol. The question, dated 22 April 2026, seeks clarification on whether Babiš's dual role as head of government and beneficiary of SynBiol violates EU rules on conflicts of interest, particularly in light of the company's involvement in EU-funded research projects.
The question asks the Commission to assess whether Babiš's ownership of SynBiol, which has received EU grants, creates a conflict of interest under Article 61 of the EU's Financial Regulation. Peksa specifically requests details on the total amount of EU funds received by SynBiol, the nature of the projects funded, and whether any oversight mechanisms were in place to prevent undue influence. The MEP also presses the Commission on whether it has taken or plans to take any corrective measures.
Peksa's question reflects a broader push for transparency and accountability in the use of EU funds, targeting what he sees as a potential misuse of public resources for private gain. By focusing on the Financial Regulation's conflict-of-interest provisions, the MEP aims to trigger a formal review by the Commission, which could lead to a recovery of funds or other sanctions if irregularities are found.
The Commission is expected to respond within six weeks. Its answer will signal whether it views the case as a serious breach or a matter for national authorities, and could set a precedent for how EU institutions handle conflicts of interest involving high-level politicians.
Stakeholders impacted include Czech taxpayers, who may see EU funds diverted from intended purposes; EU institutions, which face pressure to enforce financial rules consistently; and biotechnology firms, which could face stricter scrutiny of their funding arrangements. The case also highlights tensions between national sovereignty and EU oversight, as the Commission must balance respect for member state governance with its duty to protect the EU budget.