Speaking at a conference on counter-terrorism and human rights at the European Parliament in Brussels, S&D MEPs have called for greater respect to be given to human rights in the fight against terrorism. The call comes amid concerns that counter-terrorism and national security are being used as means to legitimise internal repression in several EU-partner countries.
S&D MEP Elena Valenciano, Chair of the European Parliament's Subcommittee for Human Rights said:
"Over the last 15 years we have seen a very real regression in human rights and individual values around the world. We have seen democratic countries enact laws that allow for indefinite internment of people without any specific charge, based merely on the suspicion of involvement in terrorist activities. Even more worryingly authoritarian states have adopted increasingly repressive laws in the name counter-terrorism. These have been used to repress opponents, human rights activists and criminalise any form of social protest.
"We have to be coherent - countering terrorism is vital but it cannot be used as an excuse for weakening human rights or the rule of law in Europe or across the world."
Antonio Panzeri MEP, S&D Spokesperson for Human Rights, said:
"Terrorism constitutes a serious threat to human rights and democracy. While action by states is necessary to prevent terrorist acts and to ensure the security of our citizens, this cannot mean a carte blanche for law enforcement agencies. Actions taken by government as part of the fight against terrorism must remain legitimate and proportionate to their aim. Intelligence services must act to restore faith in how they work, by meeting the highest levels in ethics and democratic accountability. In the long term measures will only be effective if they comply with international obligations on human rights standards and international law. To ensure this we need to have clear democratic scrutiny of security measures."
"Terrorists feed on fear. They attempt to put us in the dilemma of choosing between security and freedom. It is a false dilemma: Democratic states must oppose terrorism while refusing to weaken the rule of law. Any other balance means a victory for the terrorists."
