The European Union (EU) is called upon to persistently uphold universal democratic values and principles in light of rising authoritarianism and threats to civil liberties. Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) express grave concerns regarding erosion of independent media, increasing censorship, and rising political hostility towards democratic institutions. They warn that the current trajectory poses significant risks to global human rights and international law.
MEPs emphasize the critical importance of the International Criminal Court (ICC) and international justice in these turbulent times, viewing sanctions against the ICC as an alarming attack on judicial independence. They urge the EU Commission to promptly implement the blocking statute to counter such sanctions. Furthermore, there are apprehensions about the unchecked influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on democracy and human rights, stressing the need for effective regulation.
The plight of women’s rights is also highlighted, as MEPs lament the growing discrimination and violence faced by women and girls, particularly in conflict scenarios. The EU bears the responsibility of championing human rights, and several mechanisms are proposed to reinforce this commitment, including suspending projects linked to human rights violations and embedding human rights clauses in trade agreements.
Increasing resources for the Special Representative for Human Rights and promoting cohesive action among EU institutions are pivotal recommendations. This urgent plea, adopted with 390 votes for, underscores the necessity of using available tools to enhance the EU’s capacity in defending democracy and human rights on the global stage.
The European Parliament urges the EU to uphold democratic values facing rising authoritarianism. Key issues include media censorship, AI threats to democracy, and declining women’s rights. MEPs reaffirm support for the ICC, recommending the activation of the blocking statute against sanctions. The report advocates for stronger EU action in promoting human rights globally.
In summary, the European Parliament’s robust stance against the decline of democratic values and human rights reflects an urgent call to action. With rising authoritarian threats and the challenges posed by AI and discrimination, it is imperative that the EU employs every available measure to protect and promote democratic ideals. The adoption of this report signals a commitment to uphold justice and support for vulnerable populations worldwide.
Original Source: www.europarl.europa.eu
