Federica Mogherini, the High Representative of the European Union discussed the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East with the Members of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the European Parliament today. Member of the European Parliament Marietje Schaake (D66/ALDE) criticized the lack of attention for human rights by the EU, particularly in the context of the deal on migration with Turkey and the nuclear deal with Iran in this context.
Schaake condemned what she called ‘the servile approach’, remarking: “While we always hear human rights are an integral part of all EU policy, in practice it is too often overshadowed by alleged short term interests. This must change. A young generation in the Middle East looks to Europe to recognize their universal human rights.”
“They fail to understand why after the conclusion of the nuclear deal with Iran, there has not been mention of human rights. Similarly the deal the EU has struck with Turkey on migration, seems to be the reason for silence on grave violations of human rights in the country. The EU risks losing credibility. I urge the High Representative to make sure human rights are concretely and prominently featured in the EU Global Strategy we anticipate.”
