Deploring the lack of legislative and presidential elections in the Palestinian territories, MEPs call for new ballots as soon as possible.
On Tuesday, MEPs on the Foreign Affairs Committee adopted a set of recommendations on how the EU should continue to engage with the Palestinian Authority (PA). Stressing that it is unacceptable that no elections have been held in the Palestinian territories in more than 16 years, they strongly urge the political leadership of the PA to prepare for the holding of free and fair legislative and presidential ballots as soon as possible. In this context, they remind the Palestinian side of the importance of an independent judiciary and the respect for freedom of expression, while also calling on Israel to respect its obligations to allow elections to take place in East Jerusalem.
Consider EU targeted measures for settlement expansion
MEPs continue to state that Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories are illegal under international law and demand their immediate end. Pointing out that these settlements constitute a major obstacle to the viability of the two-state solution, including lasting peace and security, MEPs call for new efforts to end the latest cycle of settlement related violence and say the EU should considerer targeted measures specifically addressing settlement expansion in the West Bank.
They also express concern about EU policy and EU financial assistance in the Palestinian territories being undermined by illegal settlements and demand compensation for the demolition of all EU-funded infrastructure in the area. The text notes that, in 2022, 101 structures funded by the EU or EU member states (valued at €337,019) were demolished or seized by Israeli authorities.
MEPs also ask the EU to commission a legal opinion assessing the political and economic consequences of the Israeli move to transfer broad authority over civilian issues in the West Bank to the Israeli Finance Minister, which would enable the deepening of Israel’s presence on the Palestinian territories.
”The Palestinian people have lived under occupation for more than 50 years. EU must show its true commitment through a strengthening of its cooperation with the Palestinian Authority and acting to end the occupation. The Palestinian Authority has also a responsibility to advance democracy and reforms”, said rapporteur Evin Incir (S&D, Sweden) after the vote.
Launch negotiations on a full EU-Palestine Association Agreement
In line with its commitment to a two-state solution, the EU should establish a more regular political dialogue with the Palestinian authorities, with a strong focus on human rights, the rule of law and the fight against terrorism. MEPs also want the EU to launch negotiations on a full Association Agreement between the EU and Palestine as soon as possible, and to convene an Association Council.
The EU has had such an Association Agreement with Israel since 2000.
For all the details, the recommendations will be available in due time here. They were adopted by 41 votes in favour, 24 against with 9 abstentions.
The recommendation will now be submitted for approval by the European Parliament as a whole, with the plenary vote scheduled for July.
