Revealing a YouTube Prankster’s Earnings in the EU Parliament

The independent MEP for the European Parliament, Fidias Panayiotou, who is based in Cyprus, has disclosed his monthly earnings as a YouTuber.

In June 2024, Panayiotou, a controversial prankster, was elected as an independent member of the European Parliament. According to a report by the BBC, he received 40% of the votes from individuals aged 18-24 and 28% of the votes from those aged 25-34.

Despite having no prior voting experience and limited understanding of the political system, the 24-year-old influencer is currently taking viewers on a “journey of learning.”

Through his TikTok profile, Panayiotou has provided a glimpse into the inner workings of the European Parliament and even disclosed his monthly salary.

@fidiasmep
How Much Politicians Get Paid

♬ original sound – fidias – fidias

According to Panayiotou, he receives a monthly salary of €8,000, along with an extra €350 for each day he works at parliament, which he finds peculiar.

Panayiotou receives a monthly allowance of €30,000 for covering his team’s salaries, an additional €5,000 if he maintains an office in his home country, and €4,000 for promoting his work.

“A notable expense is the provision of €10,000 per month for the Youtuber to bring individuals to parliament for a few days in order to meet and gain an understanding of the work being done.”

In addition to the job itself, there are certain perks that come with it, such as having a personal driver in Brussels and being provided with business class tickets for Panayiotou’s return flights home.

“The YouTuber concluded by asking, “Do you believe we are overpaid or underpaid?”Panayiotou stated that their monthly expenses amounted to approximately €60,000, which is equivalent to $65,000 USD per month and nearly $780,000 USD per year.”

The top comment on Panayiotou’s video asked, “What is the process for becoming a member of the European parliament?”Other commenters praised the creator as “the most genuine politician”they had ever come across.

Despite any criticism of his presence, I greatly appreciate the openness and honesty that this person brings.