Belgium Urged to Prioritize Human Rights as It Assumes EU Presidency
As Belgium takes on the Presidency of the Council of the European Union (EU), Amnesty International has called on the country to make human rights a top priority. The organization emphasized the critical moment in which Belgium assumes this role, with a multitude of challenges facing Europe and beyond.
Among these challenges are Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine, attacks by Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups on Israel, and Israel’s bombardment of the Gaza strip. At the same time, geopolitical tensions are escalating, and the international human rights system and those defending human rights face increasing challenges. Amnesty International is particularly concerned about the backsliding on the rule of law and the rise of an anti-gender movement within the EU.
As negotiations on asylum reforms reach their final stage, there is a risk that EU institutions will compromise on the rights of asylum seekers, refugees, and other migrants. This could result in less coherent, sustainable, humane, and effective responses to those seeking safety at EU borders.
Another area of concern for Amnesty International is the legislative efforts by the EU to protect individuals from potential harms caused by Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems. However, there are gaps and loopholes in the draft Regulation that need to be addressed for stronger fundamental rights protections.
Amnesty International has provided the Belgian Presidency with an annex containing detailed analysis and recommendations. The organization looks forward to collaborating closely during the Presidency and beyond, offering any necessary information and support.
Eve Geddie, Head of Office and Advocacy Director at Amnesty International’s European Institutions Office, along with other directors from Amnesty Belgium, have signed the letter urging Belgium to uphold the EU’s human rights commitments during this crucial time.
This call to action by Amnesty International is not without support from other entities. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, the European Data Protection Supervisor, and a network of European anti-discrimination bodies and national human rights institutions have echoed the concerns raised by civil society.
Amnesty International’s recent report, The Predator Files: Caught in the Net, highlights the urgency of addressing the potential implications of AI on human rights. By bridging the gaps in the draft Regulation, the EU can ensure that the use of AI is in line with fundamental rights.
As Belgium assumes the EU Presidency, the world will be watching closely to see its commitment to prioritizing human rights. Amnesty International’s call to action serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of upholding human rights principles in addressing the numerous challenges faced by Europe and the international community.
References:
[1] Amnesty International, Defending Defenders? An Assessment of EU Action on Human Rights Defenders, 25 September 2019, [link]
[2] Civil society calls have been echoed by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, the European Data Protection Supervisor, and the network of European anti-discrimination bodies and national human rights institutions.
[3] A civil society statement on fundamental rights in the EU Artificial Intelligence Act, EU Trilogues: The AI Act must protect people’s rights, 12th July 2023, [link]
[4] Amnesty International, The Predator Files: Caught in the Net, 9 October 2023, [link]
