The Council established a dedicated framework for restrictive measures in support of democracy and a peaceful and orderly transfer of power in Guatemala. This decision will allow the European Union to hold accountable those obstructing a democratic transition following the 2023 general elections, which resulted in a clear victory of President-elect Bernardo Arévalo, as attested […]
Defence of Democracy – Commission proposes to shed light on covert foreign influence
On last 12 December, the European Commission adopted a Defence of Democracy package, ahead of the 2024 European elections. The central piece of this package is a legislative proposal that will enhance transparency and democratic accountability of interest representation activities on behalf of third countries which are aimed at influencing policies, decision making and the democratic […]
EU foreign policy and its global impact
Last June, the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, visited Latin America in order to strengthen ties with key partners. During her trip, she had the opportunity to visit Brazil, Argentina, Chile and Mexico. The Latin American tour also served to prepare for the summit between the EU and the Community of […]
European Parliament condemns Maduro regime’s interference in Venezuela’s 2024 elections
The plenary on Thursday denounced the disqualification of the main Venezuelan opposition candidates and the interference of the Maduro regime in the 2024 elections. In a resolution adopted with 495 votes in favour, 25 against and 43 abstentions, MEPs condemn the 15-year political disqualification of María Corina Machado and other leading opposition figures such as […]
European Parliament regrets the deterioration of democracy and human rights in Cuba
The European Parliament on Wednesday condemned the systematic violations and abuses of human rights in Cuba and called for EU sanctions starting with President Miguel Díaz-Canel. With 359 votes in favour, 226 against and 50 abstentions, the plenary adopted a resolution – following the debate in plenary on 13 June – calling on the Cuban […]
According to the latest Eurobarometer, citizens are aware of the impact of the EU on their lives
One year ahead of the next European elections, public interest in these elections has measurably increased. A clear majority of citizens (56%) are interested in the next European elections, 6 points higher compared to 2018, one year before the last European elections. Around two thirds of respondents (67%) say they would be likely to vote […]
MEPs denounce deliberate and systematic efforts to undermine EU values
In its latest resolution, Parliament raises serious concerns over developments in Hungary, in light of the upcoming Hungarian Presidency of the Council of the EU. Following a plenary debate on Wednesday on the situation of rule of law and fundamental rights in Hungary and frozen EU funds, the text was adopted on Thursday (442 for, […]
World Forum for Democracy Call for Initiatives
The World Forum for Democracy is an annual gathering of leaders, opinion-makers, civil society activists, representatives of business, social innovators, academia, and media to debate key challenges for democracies worldwide and encourage democratic innovation. The 2023 edition, taking place in Strasbourg (France) from 6 to 8 November 2023, will focus on the topic of “Democracy= Peace?”. The […]
European Parliament warns of risks to democracy from spyware, calls for reforms
EP spyware inquiry committee has adopted its final report and recommendations, condemning spyware abuses in several EU member states and setting out a way forward. On Monday evening, the European Parliament’s Committee of Inquiry to investigate the use of Pegasus and equivalent surveillance spyware (PEGA) adopted its final report and recommendations following a year-long inquiry […]