In a recent proclamation, the European Parliament stressed the necessity of upholding universal democratic values amidst the rising tide of authoritarianism, totalitarianism, and populism globally. Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) condemned acts of censorship, threats to independent media, and the shrinking sphere for civil society. They voiced concern over the potential threats posed by inadequately regulated artificial intelligence to democracy and human rights.
Furthermore, the Parliament reiterated its unwavering support for the International Criminal Court (ICC) and other international justice entities. They lamented the ongoing attacks on these institutions, urging the European Commission to urgently activate the blocking statute against sanctions imposed on the ICC, viewing such actions as serious affronts to global judicial integrity.
The report placed particular emphasis on the alarming decline in the protection of women’s rights, highlighting that discrimination and violence against females, especially during conflicts, remains prevalent. MEPs insisted on the necessity for the EU to defend human rights, international justice, and peace, utilising tools such as suspending European Neighbourhood policy projects linked to human rights violations.
They proposed incorporating human rights clauses into trade agreements and enforcing the EU’s global human rights sanctions regime. Emphasising the importance of collaboration, MEPs called on EU institutions and member states to unite efforts to promote and safeguard these rights, and to bolster resources for the EU’s Special Representative for Human Rights, ensuring proactive defence of universal values.
The report was adopted with a resounding vote: 390 in favour, 116 against, and 126 abstentions, signalling strong parliamentary support for human rights advocacy. Isabel Wiseler-Lima, the rapporteur, encapsulated the urgency of the situation, affirming the EU’s role in upholding democracy and justice in a world increasingly questioning these ideals.
The European Parliament’s report calls for the EU to uphold democratic values amid rising authoritarianism. MEPs condemned censorship and threats to media, highlighting the dangers of unregulated AI. Support for international justice through the ICC was reaffirmed, alongside urgent action to protect women’s rights. The report suggests leveraging tools, such as trade agreements with human rights clauses, to defend universal values, culminating in a significant vote supporting its proposals.
The European Parliament’s recent report underscores the urgent need to bolster democracy and human rights amid escalating global authoritarianism. By reinforcing its commitment to international justice and enhancing collaboration among EU entities, the EU can effectively defend universal values. Furthermore, addressing the challenges posed by artificial intelligence and advocating for women’s rights will ensure a comprehensive approach to upholding these ideals. As the report firmly states, the responsibility lies with the EU to utilise its available tools to promote and protect democracy, solidifying its role as a beacon of hope on the global stage.
Original Source: www.europarl.europa.eu
