Labour faces calls to address local service issues in upcoming budget as councils declare they've trimmed all possible excess

Several local governments claim they are on the verge of collapse, with one out of every four in England indicating a potential need for urgent government financial aid.

Business and economics reporter @gurpreetnarwan

Thursday, October 24, 2024, at 2

In recent years, Folkestone has attracted many visitors due to revitalization efforts and private investments that have revamped sections of this coastal port town in Kent.

Numerous locals believe that the very essence of their community is unraveling. Community services have been declining for quite a while.

Recreational facilities have closed, and the majority of the 50 youth clubs operated by Kent County Council have also been shut down recently.

The neighborhood library has been shut down for the past two years due to deterioration, with the local government citing insufficient funds for its refurbishment. In response, a temporary library has been established on the opposite side of the street, utilizing a building that previously served as a youth center.

This narrative is all too common. Throughout the nation, municipal budgets have been significantly reduced in the last ten years.

Since 2010, the central government has reduced its funding to local authorities, compelling them to increase council tax. Despite this, they have not been able to compensate for the deficit, resulting in a 26% decrease in total spending capacity over the last ten years.

While the need for fundamental services, particularly adult social care, has surged, local authorities are faced with the challenge of providing more services with fewer resources.

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The UK has pledged a £2.26 billion loan to assist Ukraine in its defense against Russia's invasion, with the provision that Ukraine will not be required to repay the funds.

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As expected, services deemed non-essential have been the initial ones to be discontinued.

People living in Folkestone are expressing their frustration and are looking to the recently elected Labour government to fulfill its commitments to improve community services.

Matthew Jones, an active community advocate, expressed: "Libraries serve a purpose beyond just book lending. They are the heart of the community… a gathering place for everyone, including the unemployed and students, offering a warm, secure environment conducive to studying and surrounded by supportive individuals."

Last year, Kent County Council implemented cuts totaling £90 million, and it is currently seeking to reduce an additional £85 million in expenditures.

In addition to discontinuing services, the council is putting its historic headquarters on the market, a landmark property that has served as its base for over a century, due to financial constraints preventing its upkeep.

Peter Oakford, the vice-chair of the council, stated that there was no additional excess to trim.

"Our sympathies lie with the community members as we find ourselves in a challenging situation where we must request higher payments for reduced services. The dilemma will persist until social care receives adequate funding from the government, allowing the council to allocate resources to other essential services we provide to residents."

Since 2010, local governments, as well as other areas with variable budgets like the judiciary and correctional facilities, have experienced significant reductions in funding as the central government has focused financial resources primarily on the National Health Service and educational institutions.

A recent survey conducted by the Local Government Association (LGA) reveals that multiple local councils are nearing a crisis, with one out of every four councils in England anticipating the need to request emergency financial support from the government to avoid insolvency within the upcoming two fiscal years.

Explore further with Sky News: Budget 2024: What might the chancellor declare? Health secretary cautions of 'tough decisions' looming. Government debt sustains peak levels since the pandemic.

A different study conducted by the union Unison revealed that local councils are facing a shortfall of £4.3 billion in their budgets for the upcoming year, a figure that is expected to increase to £8.5 billion the year after.

The finance minister faces mounting calls to allocate additional funds for municipal governments in the upcoming budget, amidst competing financial needs from various public sector areas.

Stay informed on the most recent updates from the UK and globally by tuning into Sky News.

Rachel Reeves insists that routine expenses must be funded by taxes, yet the government has pledged not to increase income tax, national insurance, or VAT.

This implies that the chancellor faces a challenging equilibrium to maintain.

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IMF cautions that significant public investment is essential to curb the UK's national debt from escalating to dangerous heights. As the chancellor gears up for her inaugural appearance at the IMF annual meeting, the global financial institution expressed to Sky News the urgency of bolstering public investment, given the current climate of high interest rates coupled with sluggish growth.

Business and economics reporter @pkelso

Wednesday, October 23, 2024, 7:

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has issued a warning that significant public investment in emerging technologies and the energy transition is essential for stimulating growth in the UK and avoiding the escalation of national debt to dangerous proportions.

As Rachel Reeves headed to Washington for her inaugural IMF annual meeting in the role of chancellor, the organization pointed out that the UK is among the developed nations where borrowing could significantly exceed the levels seen before the pandemic.

The annual fiscal monitor report from the International Monetary Fund, which evaluates tax policies and expenditure across worldwide economies, forecasts that the UK's net debt will rise from 91.6% of GDP this year to 96.4% in 2029.

Vitor Gaspar, who oversees fiscal affairs at the IMF, expressed concerns to Sky News about the UK's national debt, describing it as "high, increasing, and dangerous." He emphasized that the mix of comparatively high interest rates and sluggish growth highlights the need for prioritizing public investment.

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"If I were to express my worries regarding the UK, I would frame it like this: The UK is grappling with interest rates that are nearly on par with those in the US, yet its economic growth rates lag significantly behind those of the US.

"This segues into a topic that has seen extensive discussion across the UK. The proportion of public investment relative to GDP is on a decline. Considering the hurdles posed by the shift towards sustainable energy, emerging technologies, and significant innovations, there is a pressing need for increased public investment."

He cautioned that the financial difficulties facing the UK were a common issue globally, with worldwide debt exceeding $100 trillion and continuing to climb.

"In numerous nations, the financial strategies established by governments are inadequate for ensuring stable or decreasing levels of public debt with substantial certainty. Further action is required. Postponing reforms is expensive and dangerous. Simply deferring decisions is not an option. The moment to take action is immediate."

Catch up on more political updates: Starmer dismisses demands for reparations. Health Secretary opposes assisted dying bill. Starmer's dispute with Team Trump creates tension.

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Mr. Gaspar's remarks, which are poised to receive a positive response from Ms. Reeves as she plans to modify the government's borrowing guidelines to permit increased debt in her initial budget next week, suggested that she should consider the option of borrowing for investment purposes.

"Public funds should be safeguarded within a system of regulations and fiscal processes that support strong economic health. It is highly beneficial that this topic is currently a major focus of discussion in the UK."

Ms. Reeves is anticipated to prioritize public investment in her budget plan, aiming to generate approximately £40 billion through a combination of tax hikes and reductions in spending, in an effort to stimulate economic growth.

According to the think tank IPPR, the United Kingdom has had the lowest combined public and private investment rates among the G7 nations for 24 out of the past 30 years.

On Thursday in Washington, she is set to meet with finance ministers from over 190 nations, an event that will also see participation from Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey.

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The football governing body will no longer need to match its ownership approval choices with the country's international relations strategies. This change comes after UEFA hinted at possibly excluding English clubs from European tournaments, worried about what it saw as likely improper governmental meddling in the sport.

Sports reporter @RobHarris

Thursday, October 24, 2024, 13:

The planned governing body for English men's soccer will not be required to match its decisions regarding club acquisitions with the government's international and trade policies.

The elimination of the provision comes after UEFA subtly warned that it might exclude English clubs from European tournaments due to worries about possible unauthorized government meddling in soccer.

Labour amended the Football Governance Bill, originally crafted by the Conservative government but not passed into law due to time constraints before the July general election was announced.

Despite resistance from the influential and affluent Premier League, the independent football regulator was established in response to the outrage sparked by top clubs' attempts to form a separate Super League in 2021, and worries regarding the economic viability of smaller clubs within the league hierarchy.

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) asserted that the proposed legislation presented in the House of Lords has been "enhanced," though the complete text has not yet been released and currently applies only to the men's sport.

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Clubs are now obligated to release action plans focusing on equality, diversity, and inclusion, as well as to enhance their dialogue with supporters, according to what the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) describes as "effective engagement," especially regarding alterations in ticket pricing and club locations.

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy stated, "Loyal supporters and entire communities have too often faced the threat of losing their beloved clubs due to fiscal irresponsibility and imprudent expenditure for far too long."

"This legislation aims to restore equilibrium, positioning supporters at the core of the sport, addressing unscrupulous owners, and importantly, assisting in establishing a stable financial base for teams throughout the nation."

Speaking to Sky News in April, Sir Keir Starmer expressed his intention, before taking on the role of prime minister, to safeguard the Premier League's status in order to maintain its reputation for delivering top-tier football globally.

However, the Premier League expressed continued "concerns" regarding the regulator's control over the distribution of its resources to teams in lower leagues.

Negotiations have hit a standstill regarding a financial arrangement, termed the "New Deal," valued at approximately £900 million to support the English Football League. Should the parties involved fail to reach a consensus, the overseeing authority may enforce a resolution.

Stay informed with the most recent updates from the UK and globally by tuning into Sky News.

"Drop payments"

The regulatory body will now have the authority to evaluate the effects of "parachute payments," which are provided to teams to mitigate the financial impact of being demoted from the premier league.

The Premier League maintains that they are essential for clubs to invest in new players upon being promoted. However, the English Football League (EFL) argues that they skew the competitive balance in the Championship division by giving certain teams a substantial financial boost.

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The Premier League stated, "We are concerned that strict regulations similar to those in banking, along with the regulator’s new and unproven authority to meddle in how we allocate our revenues, might harm the league’s ongoing competitiveness, the clubs’ ability to invest in top-tier talent, and ultimately, the ambitions that fuel our international popularity and expansion."

Discover further details on Sky News: Geoff Capes, ex-champion of the World's Strongest Man, passes away. Youngsters share their opinions on the controversial sexual behavior known as 'stealthing.'

EFL Chairman Rick Parry stated, "It has been our consistent stance during this process that we do not aim to weaken or obstruct the Premier League's potency, nor the value it creates for the broader pyramid, encompassing the EFL and our competitions."

"Instead, the focus is on establishing a structure that supports a sustainable and competitive hierarchy, promoting athletic risk without economic disaster, all while being supported by improved regulation and more equitable distribution."

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Ban on sale of disposable vapes announced

The government will introduce a law to prohibit the sale of disposable vapes starting June 1 of the following year, as confirmed by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) during a recent parliamentary session.

Thursday, October 24, 2024, at 12

The administration plans to prohibit the sale and distribution of disposable vapes by the upcoming summer.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has confirmed that a bill to enact the ban starting June 1 of the following year has been presented in parliament.

Companies are given until the specified deadline "to clear out their existing inventory and get ready for the implementation of the prohibition," according to the announcement.

The UK central government and the devolved administrations collaborated on the implementation of the ban, planning to synchronize the dates when it would take effect, according to the department.

Latest in Politics: Senior Labour Figure Critiques Trump's 'Gimmick'

Circular economy minister Mary Creagh described single-use vapes as "highly disposable and a scourge on our urban landscapes."

"She emphasized the prohibition of disposable vapes, marking an end to the country's culture of disposability," she stated.

"This marks the beginning of our journey towards a circular economy, which aims to extend the lifespan of resources, minimize waste, hasten our progress toward net zero emissions, and generate thousands of jobs nationwide."

Discover additional insights from Sky News: Prime Minister dismisses demands for reparations. Police involved in fatal shooting to stay unnamed in court proceedings. In-depth: The complications of Starmer's dispute with Team Trump.

Stay informed about the most recent developments in the UK and globally by tuning into Sky News.

Billions discarded weekly throughout the previous year

In the previous year, it was calculated that nearly five million disposable e-cigarettes were discarded into general trash or left as litter each week in the UK, marking an almost fourfold increase from the year before.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) reported that the use of vapes in England has increased by over 400% from 2012 to 2023. Currently, 9.1% of people in Britain purchase and use

Growing worry over children using vapes

Speaking to Sky News, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy expressed the government's growing worries about vaping, particularly highlighting the troubling rise in usage among children, which has tripled over the past three years. She clarified that the government isn't banning vaping, but they are alarmed by these trends.

"She expressed hope that this would interrupt the pattern of increasingly younger children becoming accustomed to vaping."

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Health Minister Andrew Gwynne expressed concern, stating, "It's quite alarming that last year, one in four individuals aged 11 to 15 had used a vape, with disposable ones being the preferred option for most young vapers today."

"Prohibiting single-use vapes will safeguard the environment and crucially diminish their allure to kids, ensuring these devices are kept away from impressionable youth."

Libby Peake, who leads the resources division at Green Alliance, commented: "Our children and the environment certainly do not need disposable vapes, yet the market for these products has expanded without sufficient regulation for far too long."

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The clash at the peaks?

Thursday, October 24, 2024, 7:30 AM, UK

Sky News’ assistant political editor, Sam Coates, along with Politico's Jack Blanchard, deliver a daily rundown of the day's political events in less than 20 minutes.

This week features two significant conferences: one attended by the prime minister and one without him. While Sir Keir Starmer participates in the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa, Russian President Vladimir Putin is hosting over 20 national leaders at the BRICS summit for developing nations, some of whom were expected to join Sir Keir.

The Prime Minister's visit is overshadowed by a controversy regarding compensation for the UK's historical involvement in the trans-Atlantic slave trade. Sir Keir has maintained that the Commonwealth must look towards the future rather than dwelling on the past, but what will be the reception to this stance?

As Rachel Reeves gets ready to discuss alterations to fiscal regulations with the IMF, is there a risk of presenting conflicting signals in the upcoming budget? Jack and Sam explore her trip to Washington.

👆 Click here to subscribe to the Politics At Jack And Sam's podcast on your preferred platform! 👇

You can reach Jack and Sam via WhatsApp at 07511 867 633 or through their email: jackandsam@sky.uk

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Harriet Harman claims Starmer has misinterpreted Commonwealth leaders' request for reparations for the slave trade. Before the Commonwealth summit in Samoa, the Prime Minister dismissed the idea of reparations, suggesting that nations are more interested in UK support for contemporary problems.

Political correspondent @alixculbertson

Thursday, October 24, 2024, 4:

A senior Labour figure has told Sky News that Sir Keir Starmer has failed to grasp the reasons behind Commonwealth leaders' calls for reparations for the slave trade, and he should show more cultural sensitivity.

During a discussion on Sky News' Electoral Dysfunction podcast with Beth Rigby, Baroness Harriet Harman expressed her view that the prime minister has erred by avoiding the topic of reparations at the recent Commonwealth summit.

Before the summit in Samoa, Sir Keir described the transatlantic slave trade as "abhorrent" and dismissed the idea of reparations, stating that impacted nations prefer UK assistance with contemporary challenges like climate change effects.

However, leaders from the Commonwealth, including representatives from the Caribbean, Africa, and the Pacific, have ignored his stance and are creating a pact to delve deeper into the matter and initiate a significant dialogue.

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The UK might end up liable for billions of pounds, however, a spokesperson for Sir Keir stated that the UK does "not pay reparations", typically understood as compensation given by one country to another for harm or losses inflicted on its citizens or territory.

Ex-Labour Minister Baroness Harriet Harman stated, "It concerns the ties between the UK and other nations in the Commonwealth."

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Sir Keir Starmer characterizes individuals with assets as 'non-working people,' potentially setting the stage for future tax increases.

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"I believe that Keir Starmer should embrace a commitment to cultural respect and equality."

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She emphasized that his statement about moving beyond past issues carries significant importance.

"She believes that reparative justice focuses on more than just historical issues," she stated.

"Indeed, it concerns historical events, yet it also focuses on future connections and the foundations upon which they are built."

"Thus, I believe stating 'that's all in the past, let's focus on the future' seems to misinterpret their real message."

Further reading: Tensions with Team Trump present challenges for Starmer. 'Props to Keir Starmer': Inmate grateful to PM for early release.

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Baroness Harman mentioned that Commonwealth leaders are currently describing it as "an ongoing issue," noting that the impacts of slavery continue to be felt in modern times.

"Thus, claiming that 'we just need to box it up and put a line through it' won't be effective," she continued.

"Hence, he should be part of this discussion instead of dismissing it."

She further mentioned that Sir Keir should consider focusing on maintaining "good relations" with nations in sub-Saharan Africa, given the ongoing "competition" with China in that region.

Beijing is actively pursuing relationships with numerous African nations, pouring substantial investments into these countries as it seeks to expand its sway.

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Delegation from Employment and Social Affairs Committee Heads to Poland

Spread the word: A group from the European Parliament's Employment and Social Affairs committee is scheduled to travel to Poland on the 28th and 29th of October.

The purpose of the mission is to examine the social and employment landscape in Poland, assess how EU employment and social legislation is being applied, and evaluate the utilization of EU funding tools in the nation.

Participants will share perspectives with labor unions, the Senate, and the relevant ministers.

A media briefing is set to take place on Monday, October 28th, at 4:45 PM at the Liaison Office of the Parliament in Warsaw.

Ms. Li Andersson, who heads the Employment and Social Affairs Committee and represents The Left from Finland, emphasized the importance of exchanging experiences and identifying strategies to create a more inclusive and equitable European labor market and society. She expressed her eagerness to engage in discussions on these topics with fellow members in Poland.

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Thursday, October 24

Declaration of the 2024 Recipient of the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought

At approximately noon, President Metsola is set to reveal the recipient of the Sakharov Prize for this year, following the selection made by the European Parliament's Conference of Presidents. The contenders for the award, listed alphabetically, include Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu from Azerbaijan, María Corina Machado along with President-elect Edmundo González Urrutia from Venezuela, and the groups Women Wage Peace & Women of the Sun representing Israel and Palestine.

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The Impact of Emerging Technologies on Youth Radicalization

Starting at approximately 10:30, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) will engage in discussions on strategies to address the misuse of emerging technologies that aim to manipulate and radicalize the youth via hate speech and anti-democratic narratives.

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Summary

Addressing the Skills Shortage in the EU. At 9:00 AM, Members of the European Parliament will engage in a discussion on strategies to assist individuals in navigating the digital and environmental shifts. The aim is to promote growth that includes everyone and to maintain economic competitiveness, as outlined in the proposals of the Draghi report.

Defending our seas. During the afternoon session, the plenary will evaluate the dangers facing marine protected regions within the European Union and discuss strategies to protect coastal populations.

Ballots

At midday, the full assembly will cast their votes on a pair of proposed resolutions addressing:

The live broadcast of the plenary session is available on Parliament's web streaming service and on EbS+.

For comprehensive details about the session, please refer to our newsletter.

You can access all details about the plenary session at this location.

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María Corina Machado und Edmundo González Urrutia wurden mit dem Sacharow-Preis 2024 ausgezeichnet

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Die führenden Persönlichkeiten der demokratischen Bewegung in Venezuela sowie die Oppositionskandidaten bei den Präsidentschaftswahlen im Juli wurden mit dem Sacharow-Preis 2024 für ihre Beiträge zur geistigen Freiheit geehrt.

Die Präsidentin des Europäischen Parlaments, Roberta Metsola, verkündete am Donnerstag während der Plenarsitzung die Preisträger des Sacharow-Preises 2024 für geistige Freiheit. Diese Bekanntgabe erfolgte direkt nach der Entscheidung der Konferenz der Präsidenten.

Präsidentin Metsola erklärte, dass der Sacharow-Preis 2024 für Meinungsfreiheit an María Corina Machado und den designierten Präsidenten Edmundo González Urrutia verliehen wird, um ihren mutigen Einsatz für die Wiederherstellung von Freiheit und Demokratie in Venezuela zu würdigen. Sie haben sich unerschrocken für einen gerechten, freien und friedlichen Machtwechsel eingesetzt und dabei Werte vertreten, die sowohl den Venezolanern als auch dem Europäischen Parlament wichtig sind: Gerechtigkeit, Demokratie und Rechtsstaatlichkeit. Das Europäische Parlament unterstützt das venezolanische Volk sowie María Corina Machado und den designierten Präsidenten Edmundo González Urrutia in ihrem Streben nach einer demokratischen Zukunft für ihr Land. Dieser Preis wird ihnen verdientermaßen verliehen.

Im Jahr 2023 wurde María Corina Machado als Präsidentschaftskandidatin der venezolanischen Opposition für die „Demokratische Plattform der Einheit“ ausgewählt. Allerdings wurde sie später durch den Nationalen Wahlrat, der dem Regime nahe steht, von der Wahl ausgeschlossen.

Edmundo González Urrutia, ein Diplomat und Politiker, der als Kandidat der „Demokratischen Plattform der Einheit“ antrat, kritisierte die venezolanische Regierung dafür, dass sie die offiziellen Ergebnisse der Präsidentschaftswahlen nicht veröffentlicht hatte, und stellte den Wahlsieg von Nicolás Maduro infrage. Herr González Urrutia verließ das Land im September, nachdem ein Haftbefehl gegen ihn ausgestellt worden war.

In einer Resolution, die am 19. September 2024 verabschiedet wurde, hoben die Parlamentarier hervor, dass internationale Wahlbeobachter klargestellt hatten, dass die Präsidentschaftswahlen in Venezuela nicht den internationalen Normen für faire Wahlen entsprochen hatten.

They acknowledged Edmundo González Urrutia as the rightful and democratically elected president of the nation and María Corina Machado as the leader of the democratic forces.

The legislative body condemned "the electoral fraud" alongside the severe and systematic human rights abuses targeting the democratic opposition, the citizens of Venezuela, and civic organizations.

Laut der Regierung Venezuelas wurden nach der Wahl bei Protesten 2.400 Personen festgenommen, während Nichtregierungsorganisationen den Tod von 24 Menschen berichteten. María Corina Machado bleibt weiterhin unauffindbar, während Edmundo González Urrutia nach Spanien geflohen ist, wo ihm am 7. September politisches Asyl gewährt wurde.

In einer Resolution aus dem September 2024 appellierte das Parlament an die Europäische Union, die Sanktionen gegenüber dem venezolanischen Regime zu verschärfen. Es empfahl, im Rahmen des globalen Sanktionsmechanismus der EU für Menschenrechte, gezielte Strafmaßnahmen gegen Nicolás Maduro und seine engen Vertrauten zu ergreifen. Vor den anstehenden Wahlen drängte das Europäische Parlament die Mitgliedstaaten der EU, die bestehenden Sanktionen gegen das Maduro-Regime beizubehalten. Zudem wurde die verfassungswidrige Entscheidung kritisiert, prominente Oppositionspolitiker wie María Corina Machado von der Kandidatur bei den Wahlen 2024 auszuschließen.

Award ceremony scheduled for December 18

The Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought will be awarded during the parliamentary plenary session in Strasbourg on December 18th.

Background

The Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought, named after the Soviet physicist and political dissident Andrei Sakharov, is the European Union's most prestigious award for human rights. Established in 1988, this prize is awarded annually by the Parliament to individuals or organizations. The recognition is given for their efforts in various areas, such as advocating for human rights and fundamental freedoms, especially freedom of expression, protecting minority rights, upholding international law, fostering democracy, and defending the rule of law.

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MEPs Alert: China Attempts to Misrepresent Historical and Legal Context in Taiwan Situation

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The European Parliament has denounced China's ongoing military actions targeting Taiwan and strongly opposes any solo efforts to alter the current situation in the Taiwan Strait.

Members of the European Parliament have issued a warning, stating that any attempts involving force or coercion will be met with a strong and definitive response. This statement follows the adoption of a resolution by a vote of 432 in favor, 60 against, and 71 abstentions on Thursday. The resolution criticizes China for its unjustified military drills on October 14 and ongoing military provocations toward Taiwan. The MEPs emphasize that this military escalation is altering the power dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region.

Misunderstanding the United Nations' stance

The legislative body firmly opposes China's efforts to misrepresent historical facts and international norms, emphasizing that UN resolution 2758 does not address the issue of Taiwan. It disapproves of China's ongoing attempts to prevent Taiwan from joining various multilateral organizations. Additionally, the parliament calls on the European Union and its member countries to advocate for Taiwan's active participation in global organizations such as the World Health Organization, the International Civil Aviation Organization, Interpol, and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. Members of the European Parliament also call on the United Nations to allow Taiwanese citizens and journalists entry to its facilities.

Adherence to the 'One China' principle

The European Union reaffirms its dedication to the 'One China' policy, which underpins its relationship with China, and emphasizes its support for initiatives that promote dialogue and build trust. Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) firmly denounce the Chinese President's declarations that China reserves the right to use force against Taiwan, arguing that such coercion for unification goes against international law. They assert that only the democratically elected government of Taiwan has the authority to represent its people on the global stage and express their concerns about China's use of hostile misinformation campaigns to erode confidence in Taiwan's democratic system and governance.

Worries regarding China's growing military spending and strength

Members of the European Parliament have raised alarms over China's growing assertiveness, especially in areas close to home like the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea, which they believe threatens both regional and global safety. They urge the EU and its member countries to enhance their naval capabilities in these waters. Additionally, the Parliament expresses worries over the deepening military cooperation between China and Russia, criticizing China's provision of military equipment to Russia.

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MEPs Alert: China Attempts to Misrepresent History and International Law Regarding Taiwan

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The European Parliament denounces China's ongoing military threats toward Taiwan, and strongly opposes any single-handed attempts to alter the current situation in the Taiwan Strait.

Members of the European Parliament have issued a stern warning that any efforts, especially those involving force or coercion, will face a strong and resolute response. This message comes following the adoption of a resolution on Thursday, which passed with 432 votes supporting it, 60 opposing, and 71 abstaining. The resolution strongly criticizes China's unjustified military drills conducted on October 14, along with its ongoing military provocations directed at Taiwan. The MEPs emphasized that such military activities are altering the power dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region.

Misunderstanding of the United Nations' stance

The legislative body has firmly dismissed China's efforts to misrepresent historical facts and manipulate international regulations, emphasizing that UN Resolution 2758 does not address the status of Taiwan. It criticizes China's ongoing attempts to prevent Taiwan from joining multilateral organizations and urges the European Union and its member countries to back Taiwan’s significant involvement in global organizations, including the World Health Organization, the International Civil Aviation Organization, the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol), and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. Furthermore, members of the European Parliament are calling for the United Nations to allow entry for Taiwanese citizens and journalists into its facilities.

Adherence to the 'One China' principle

The European Union continues to uphold its 'One China' policy as the cornerstone of its relationship with China, advocating for efforts that encourage dialogue and build trust, according to the document. Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) strongly criticize the Chinese President's remarks affirming that China will not rule out the use of force regarding Taiwan. They argue that any use of force to achieve unification goes against international law. Furthermore, they emphasize that only Taiwan's democratically elected leadership has the authority to represent its people on the global stage. The MEPs also express concern about China's dissemination of harmful disinformation aimed at eroding confidence in Taiwan's democracy and governance.

Growing worries regarding China's expanding military spending and advancements

Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have expressed concerns over China's growing assertiveness, especially in areas close to its borders like the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea, which they believe threatens both regional and global security. They urge the European Union and its member countries to enhance their naval capabilities in these areas. Additionally, the Parliament has raised alarms about the deepening military relationship between China and Russia, criticizing China for providing military equipment to Russia.

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EU Parliament Condemns Azerbaijan's Human Rights Abuses and Legal Violations

On Thursday, members of the European Parliament criticized Azerbaijan for its inadequate human rights practices and urged the European Union to reduce its reliance on gas imports from the country.

In a resolution passed today, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have harshly criticized the Azerbaijani government's prolonged repression both within its borders and beyond, targeting activists, journalists, opposition figures, and others, including citizens of EU nations. This crackdown has notably increased in the lead-up to the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29), scheduled to take place in Baku from November 11 to 22. MEPs argue that Azerbaijan's persistent violations of human rights are at odds with its role as host of the climate summit. They urge EU leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, to seize this event as a chance to confront Azerbaijan on its dismal human rights record.

The legislative body urges the Baku administration to end all types of oppression within Azerbaijan and abroad, free those held without just cause, and dismiss any charges driven by political agendas.

Europe needs to stop relying on Azerbaijan for gas supplies.

Members of the European Parliament have raised concerns over Azerbaijan's ongoing violations of human rights and the possibility that increased gas imports from Azerbaijan to the European Union could lead to Azerbaijan importing gas from Russia. They urge the EU to reduce its reliance on gas supplied by Azerbaijan. Additionally, they request that the European Commission halt the 2022 Memorandum of Understanding, which established a Strategic Partnership in energy between the EU and Azerbaijan.

Moreover, the resolution specifies that any upcoming partnership deal between the European Union and Azerbaijan should be dependent on Baku freeing political detainees, enacting legal reforms, enhancing the human rights conditions in the nation, and showing a true commitment to sincerely participating in peace talks with Armenia after the Azerbaijani military action in Nagorno-Karabakh in 2023.

Azerbaijan needs to remove its military forces from the recognized territory of Armenia.

Members of the European Parliament have reiterated their backing for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan and Armenia, urging the normalization of their relations and the conclusion of a long-delayed peace deal. They also demand the complete withdrawal of Azerbaijani forces from Armenia's sovereign lands, adherence to the International Court of Justice's rulings, and the freedom of 23 Armenian prisoners of war captured after Azerbaijan regained control of the Nagorno-Karabakh area last year. The Parliament appeals to member states to halt the export of military and security equipment to Azerbaijan, cautioning that any additional Azerbaijani military actions against Armenia would have serious repercussions.

The resolution passed with 453 votes supporting it, 31 opposing it, and 89 abstentions. Additional details can be found in the complete document here. (October 24, 2024)

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Viktor ALMQVIST

Snježana KOBEŠĆAK SMODIŠ

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