November 12, 2019

In Egypt there are mass detentions of protesters. European spy software is probably involved. Yet there is no ban on exports. In Iraq, demonstrators are being shot at with live ammunition. Looking ahead to further protests in Lebanon and Algeria, it is evident that we are facing an Arab Spring 2.0. And the next few months will be decisive as to whether the protests will lead to more freedom and democracy this time. So far, EU member states and the international community have been alarmingly quiet about the demonstrations. In Parliament, however, we have fought for clear resolutions - sometimes with success. This also applies to a resolution which strongly denounces the Turkish invasion of Syria and calls for clear sanctions.