MEPs call for release of pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong
- MEPs condemn the repression of pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong, urging the release of those sentenced under the National Security Law.
- In Iran, the arbitrary detention of women’s rights defenders is condemned, calling for immediate reforms and international oversight.
- The EU emphasizes that human rights respect must precede economic relations, showcasing their global advocacy efforts.
In recent actions, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have condemned various human rights violations in Hong Kong, Iran, and Cambodia. Specifically, they have spotlighted the ongoing repression in Hong Kong, particularly concerning pro-democracy advocates such as Jimmy Lai and 45 activists recently convicted under the controversial National Security Law. MEPs emphasized the need for the Hong Kong government to immediately and unconditionally release these individuals, alongside dismissing all charges leveled against them. They concluded that such laws in Hong Kong constitute severe breaches of international law and fundamental rights. Simultaneously, the MEPs addressed the systematic repression against women in Iran, urging the authorities to repeal discriminatory laws and release women’s rights defenders unjustly detained. Highlighting recent events, they mentioned the case of Ahoo Daryaei, who was arbitrarily detained after protesting against oppressive legislation. MEPs insist that Iranian authorities ensure unrestricted access for international human rights observers and called for the formal designation of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization, highlighting the urgent need for accountability and international oversight. In Cambodia, MEPs expressed deep concern regarding the shrinking civil society space, particularly focusing on the labor rights organization CENTRAL. They called for an immediate end to the harassment and repression of civil society and political prisoners, insisting that respect for human rights must be a precondition for any economic cooperation from the EU. Amid these geopolitical tensions, the MEPs adopted resolutions with substantial majorities condemning the actions in all three regions, showing a concerted effort to confront global human rights violations and hold violators accountable. The resolutions reflect the EU's commitment to international human rights principles and signal an intention to reevaluate its engagement strategies with non-compliant nations. MEPs further urged for sanctions against officials in Hong Kong and China responsible for these violations, reinforcing the need for immediate corrective actions and support for civil society movements worldwide.