On Thursday, the European Parliament adopted three resolutions addressing serious human rights abuses in Georgia, Iran, and Mali. The resolutions highlight attacks on
democracy, civil society, and individual freedoms, and call for immediate international action.
Georgia: Crackdown on Democracy and Media Freedom
MEPs strongly denounced the Georgian Dream government for its ongoing assault on democratic institutions, the political opposition, independent media, civil society, and judicial independence. The resolution specifically demands the immediate and unconditional release of journalist Mzia Amaglobeli, whose arrest was described as politically motivated.
Parliament expressed deep concern over arbitrary detentions and increased violence against journalists. It called for independent investigations and immediate steps to ensure press freedom and journalist safety.
MEPs also urged the release of all political prisoners, including activists, opposition leaders, and former President Mikheil Saakashvili. They called for the repeal of repressive laws and the restoration of democracy and civil liberties.
The EU is urged to increase support for Georgian civil society and impose sanctions on those responsible for democratic backsliding. The resolution also condemned the recent wave of attacks on NGOs, which threaten their ability to operate freely.
Adopted with: 324 votes in favor, 25 against, 87 abstentions.
Iran: Call to Free Dr. Ahmadreza Djalali and End the Death Penalty
Parliament condemned the Iranian regime for its treatment of Dr. Ahmadreza Djalali, an EU national who has been subjected to torture, denied medical care, and denied a fair trial. MEPs demanded his immediate release and access to legal and family contact.
The resolution calls on Iran to abolish the death penalty and immediately halt executions. MEPs also urged EU countries and the European External Action Service to implement targeted measures in response to Iran's continued detention of EU nationals, including Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris.
Parliament reiterated its call to designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organization and expand sanctions against those responsible for hostage-taking, executions, and systemic human rights abuses.
MEPs also demanded stronger UN human rights engagement in Iran and called on EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas to publicly address Dr. Djalali’s case in all diplomatic contacts with Iran.
Adopted with: 486 votes in favor, 8 against, 29 abstentions.
Mali: Political Repression and Threats to Democracy
Parliament condemned the dissolution of political parties in Mali and the government's ongoing repression of opposition voices. MEPs criticized actions undermining democracy and fundamental rights, including freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association.
The resolution called for the immediate release of political detainees, an end to repression and intimidation, and guarantees for the safety of civil society and opposition members. It noted Mali’s 2024 promise to hold transparent elections and demanded the government uphold its international human rights commitments.
Parliament also condemned the rise in violence and Islamist terrorism, as well as war crimes committed by the Wagner Group/Africa Corps. It reaffirmed the EU’s support for democracy and human rights in Mali.
MEPs expressed concern about increasing illegal migration flows from Mali, driven by insecurity, political instability, and economic hardship, and urged the Malian authorities to take responsibility for preventing uncontrolled departures.
Adopted with: 511 votes in favor, 14 against, 25 abstentions.