European Parliament voices concern over attacks on democracy

BRUSSELS, Jan 15 (KUNA) -- The European Parliament Wednesday expressed its "deep concern" over the unremitting attacks on democracy and shrinking space for civil society worldwide.
In a resolution adopted by 496 votes in favour, 113 against with 103 abstentions taking stock of the situation for human rights in the world, the European Parliament denounced the ongoing pushback against democracy, multilateralism and the rules-based international order that continues to pose a serious challenge to human rights.
With a particular focus on developments last year, the resolution highlighted the rise of authoritarianism as a political project around the world and stress the link between the increase in human rights violations, widespread impunity and the lack of accountability.
It called on the international community to support actions aimed at combating impunity and on the EU's Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell to appoint an EU Special Representative to promote represent the EU's commitment in the field.
The resolution also expressed deep concern that seats on various human rights-related bodies, including the UN Human Rights Council, are occupied by countries with a proven record of grave human rights violations. (end) nk.sam