The European Parliament recently adopted its 2024 annual report on human rights and democracy, delivering a stark warning against rising authoritarianism and populism. MEPs express grave concern over the increasing frequency of violations against democratic values and international humanitarian law. They decry the ongoing censorship, threats to independent media, and diminishing civic space globally, recognising that these trends are undermining democratic institutions and procedures.
In this report, the Parliament reiterates its unwavering support for the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice, viewing them as crucial to ensuring international justice especially during these tumultuous times. MEPs also lament the sanctions targeting the ICC, deeming them a severe threat to the integrity of the international judicial system, and urge the Commission to implement the blocking statute urgently.
The document also highlights the potential risks that artificial intelligence poses to democracy and human rights if left unchecked. Concerns arise about the misuse of the internet to curtail political freedoms and sabotage electoral integrity. Moreover, the report strongly underscores the pressing need to defend women’s rights, spotlighting the alarming decline in respect for these rights amid rising discrimination and violence.
Emphasising the EU’s pivotal role, the report asserts its duty to safeguard universal democratic values. It proposes practical measures such as halting European Neighbourhood policy projects implicated in human rights abuses and incorporating human rights clauses in trade agreements with non-EU countries. The MEPs stress that it is essential to leverage existing tools to champion these values effectively.
Recommendations within the report call for bolstering resources for the EU’s Special Representative for Human Rights and fostering closer collaboration among European institutions and member states in the promotion of human rights. The resounding vote recorded 390 in favour, illustrating a strong commitment towards defending these pivotal ideals.
The EU Parliament’s 2024 report decries the rise of authoritarianism and supports human rights and democracy. MEPs highlight threats from censorship, AI misuse, and diminishing women’s rights. The report calls for enhanced EU action in defending democratic values and suggests strategic measures to promote and protect human rights globally, receiving strong backing in a recent vote.
In conclusion, the European Parliament’s report serves as a clarion call to uphold democratic values in the face of rising authoritarianism. By reinforcing its support for international justice mechanisms and addressing the threats posed by AI and other emerging challenges, the EU can more effectively champion human rights. Through strategic collaboration and practical measures, the fundamental tenets of democracy can be preserved, preventing further erosion of civil liberties and dignity.
Original Source: www.europarl.europa.eu
