Libya after Gaddafi
We must not turn blind eye on Europe's own mistakes
The European Parliament today adopted a resolution on the situation in Libya in the aftermath of the fall of its former ruler Gaddafi. The Greens welcome the fact that the resolution reflects numerous of their demands, including their call for a comprehensive EU strategy for Libya.
However, the Greens criticise the majority's opposition to their calls for investigations into the co-operation of European intelligence services with Gaddafi and for more transparency in the activities of European companies investing in Libya's energy sector. The majority also refused to address the issue of European arms supplies to the old regime.
Commenting thereon, Franziska Brantner, spokesperson for foreign affairs of the Greens/EFA group, said:
"Europe urgently needs a comprehensive strategy on Libya, one that involves all member states. Unilateral actions by individuals EU states must be a thing of the past. To this end, Catherine Ashton must now put her ideas on the table.
The main priority is now to support the rule of law and the respect for international human rights standards. The European Union should demand that all crimes – regardless of which party committed them – are investigated and prosecuted in a court of law, including in cooperation with the International Criminal Court. In addition, the EU should now rapidly offer its support in the field of reconciliation and mediation. Finally, the European Union should offer assistance in reforming the country's security sector and in disarming and demobilising former combatants. I am pleased that we found a majority in Parliament for these demands.
However, it is deplorable that a majority in this house rejected our call for far-reaching transparency rules for the Libyan energy sector. In particular European companies involved in Libya should reveal their financial dealings. As long as the necessary legal framework is not in place in Libya and the EU, the European Commission should negotiate a code of conduct with the European companies concerned.
It is likewise regrettable that the majority in Parliament has turned a blind eye to the supply of weapons to Gaddafi by European companies. Past activities and practices must be investigated and EU regulations on arms exports must finally be applied effectively. An enquiry is also badly needed when it comes to the practices of European intelligence services. Their co-operation with the old regime should be subject to an independent investigation."
