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.

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No 10 has stated that apologizing for the slave trade is not planned for discussion, despite some Commonwealth leaders' intentions to challenge Sir Keir Starmer. While certain leaders are pushing for a consensus on discussing reparations in the concluding statement, others are advocating for a distinct declaration that demands them, potentially causing division within the Commonwealth.

Political correspondent @alixculbertson

Thursday, October 24, 2024, 4:

Downing Street has stated that issuing an apology for the UK's involvement in the slave trade is currently not being considered, despite the controversy surrounding the Commonwealth summit.

The prime minister described the transatlantic slave trade as "repugnant" and dismissed the idea of reparations, stating that the nations impacted would prefer the UK's assistance with contemporary challenges, including climate change effects.

As the biennial Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) convenes in Samoa starting tomorrow, sources tell Sky News that leaders from the Commonwealth are set to discuss a proposal focused on reparations for the slave trade, a move that goes against the stance of Sir Keir Starmer.

Representatives from various nations are drafting a pact to initiate more studies and start significant discussions.

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This situation might result in the UK being liable for billions of pounds in reparations, typically understood as compensation a country pays for harm or losses inflicted on other nations or their citizens.

When questioned further about reparations amid increasing scrutiny, the official spokesperson for Sir Keir Starmer stated, "Our stance on reparations is explicit and consistent.

Further Discussion on Commonwealth Issues

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

The clash at the peaks?

Sir Keir Starmer dismisses demands for reparations to sidestep 'prolonged and infinite debates over history'

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"It's important that we look ahead and concentrate on collaborating with the Commonwealth to address mutual concerns right now. Also, the concept of reparatory justice as a form of resolution is not something I acknowledge."

When questioned further about the possibility of issuing an apology, the spokesperson reiterated that it was "not being considered."

Following the conclusion of the Commonwealth summit, the 55 attending leaders are set to endorse a joint statement that outlines the discussions held and encapsulates the resolutions made on particular matters.

According to the BBC, it is believed that some leaders wish to address the issue of slavery reparations in their official statement, with a preliminary text indicating that the leaders "concurred that it is now appropriate for an earnest, sincere, and respectful dialogue aimed at creating a shared future rooted in fairness."

Some officials are pushing for a distinct statement that calls for reparative justice, which the UK and several other nations are expected to resist signing.

This situation could represent a dire outcome for the UK, as it would necessitate a vote among leaders, potentially leading to divisions within the Commonwealth.

In addition to financial compensation, forms of reparative justice might include the cancellation of debts, a formal apology, the establishment of educational initiatives, economic aid, public health services, and the construction of museums.

An informant revealed to Beth Rigby of Sky News that Sir Keir's decision to exclude reparations from the agenda has frustrated several leaders, suggesting that despite his intentions, the topic will likely appear in the closing statement.

Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis has expressed his desire to include reparatory justice in the communique and plans to engage in an open discussion with Sir Keir.

"He emphasized to Politico that it involves more than just saying sorry."

"It’s not focused on financial gain, but rather on recognizing and fully grasping the trials our forebears endured, which have deeply impacted our race in cultural, mental, and physical ways."

Further reading: Why disagreement with Team Trump is challenging for Starmer'Praise for Keir Starmer': Inmate thanks PM after early release

He plans to have a conversation with Sir Keir, whom he described as "a fair-minded just individual," on Saturday during a six-hour leaders' retreat without any aides present, allowing for more open dialogue.

The pair of leaders know each other from the past, as they both served as defense attorneys in a 2003 lawsuit that resulted in the elimination of the compulsory death penalty in the Bahamas.

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King Charles and Queen Camilla have also traveled to Samoa, where the king is scheduled to speak at a summit. This follows their visit to Australia, where they encountered protests and allegations of taking Aboriginal land and perpetrating "genocide against our people."

Their entry into Samoa was seamless, with the King being honored as a "high chief" of the Pacific island and receiving a whole pig as a gift.

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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.

Sir Keir Starmer has outlined his priorities for the budget regarding who he aims to safeguard. However, questions remain about whether Rachel Reeves shares his perspective.

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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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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.

Elodie LABORIE

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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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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.

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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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Members of the European Parliament criticize Azerbaijan for human rights abuses

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

In a resolution passed today, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have vehemently criticized the Azerbaijani government's persistent persecution of activists, journalists, opposition figures, and others, including citizens of the EU. This crackdown has notably intensified as the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) approaches, scheduled to take place in Baku from November 11 to 22. MEPs believe that Azerbaijan's continuous violations of human rights are inconsistent with its role as host of the climate conference. They urge EU leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, to seize this event as a chance to confront Azerbaijan's poor human rights record.

The parliament urges the authorities in Baku to end all types of oppression both within Azerbaijan and outside its borders. It also demands the release of individuals held without just cause and the dismissal of all charges driven by political motives.

Europe needs to stop relying on Azerbaijan for its gas supply.

Members of the European Parliament are urging an end to the EU's reliance on Azerbaijani gas exports due to ongoing human rights violations in Azerbaijan and concerns that Azerbaijan might offset its gas exports to the EU by importing gas from Russia. They are also requesting that the European Commission halt the 2022 energy partnership agreement with Azerbaijan.

Furthermore, the resolution asserts that any prospective partnership deal between the European Union and Azerbaijan should depend on Baku taking specific actions. These include freeing political detainees, enacting legal changes, enhancing the country's human rights conditions, and showing a sincere commitment to peace talks with Armenia after Azerbaijan's 2023 military actions in Nagorno-Karabakh.

Azerbaijan needs to pull back its military forces from the sovereign land of Armenia.

In a recent move, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have reiterated their backing for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan and Armenia. They are pushing for normalized relations between the two nations and urging the conclusion of a long-anticipated peace deal. The MEPs are demanding the complete withdrawal of Azerbaijani forces from all areas of Armenia's sovereign land, adherence to rulings by the International Court of Justice, and the release of 23 Armenian prisoners of war who were captured after Azerbaijan regained control of the Nagorno-Karabakh region last year. Additionally, the European Parliament is urging member states to halt exports of military and security equipment to Azerbaijan, cautioning that any further military aggression by Azerbaijan towards Armenia would trigger significant repercussions.

The resolution passed with 453 votes supporting it, 31 opposing, and 89 choosing not to vote. Additional details will be accessible in full here. (24.10.2024)

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EU lawmakers criticize Azerbaijan's disregard for human rights and international norms

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In a session on Thursday, members of the European Parliament condemned Azerbaijan for its inadequate human rights practices and urged the European Union to reduce its reliance on Azerbaijani gas.

In a decision made today, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have expressed strong disapproval of Azerbaijan's prolonged suppression of activists, journalists, and opposition figures, both within its borders and beyond. This repression, which also affects EU citizens, has become more pronounced as the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) approaches, scheduled to take place in Baku from November 11 to 22. MEPs contend that Azerbaijan's persistent violations of human rights are at odds with its role as host of the climate event. They urge EU leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, to seize this occasion to confront Azerbaijan about its poor human rights record.

The legislative body urges the Azerbaijani government to halt all types of suppression both within and outside the country, free individuals who have been unjustly imprisoned, and dismiss all charges that are driven by political motives.

Europe needs to reduce its reliance on Azerbaijan for gas supplies.

Highlighting ongoing human rights violations in Azerbaijan and expressing concerns that a rise in gas imports from Azerbaijan to the EU may lead to Azerbaijan subsequently importing Russian gas, members of the European Parliament are urging the EU to reduce its reliance on gas exports from Azerbaijan. Additionally, they are requesting that the European Commission halt the 2022 Memorandum of Understanding regarding the Strategic Partnership in energy between the EU and Azerbaijan.

Furthermore, the resolution specifies that any forthcoming partnership deal between the European Union and Azerbaijan should depend on Baku's actions, including freeing political detainees, enacting legal changes, enhancing the country's general human rights conditions, and showing a sincere willingness to engage in honest peace talks with Armenia after the 2023 Azerbaijani military action in Nagorno-Karabakh.

Azerbaijan needs to pull its military forces out of Armenia's recognized land.

MEPs are reinforcing their commitment to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan and Armenia, urging both nations to normalize their relations and finalize a long-awaited peace deal. They demand the complete withdrawal of Azerbaijani forces from all areas recognized as Armenian territory, adherence to the rulings of the International Court of Justice, and the release of 23 Armenian POWs captured after Azerbaijan regained control of the Nagorno-Karabakh region last year. The Parliament appeals to member states to halt exports of military and security equipment to Azerbaijan, cautioning that any additional Azerbaijani military aggression towards Armenia would lead to significant repercussions.

The decision passed with 453 members voting in support, 31 opposing, and 89 choosing not to vote. Further details will be accessible in entirety here. (October 24, 2024)

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Mission of the Employment and Social Affairs Committee to Poland

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Members of the European Parliament's Employment and Social Affairs Committee are scheduled to travel to Poland on October 28th and 29th.

The objective of the mission is to examine Poland's social and labor market conditions, assess how EU employment and social affairs laws are being implemented, and evaluate the utilization of EU funding tools within the nation.

The members are set to share opinions with social partners, 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 Parliament located in Warsaw.

Ms. Li ANDERSSON from The Left party in Finland, who chairs the Employment and Social Affairs Committee, commented on the mission she is heading: “As we strive for a fairer and improved working environment, sharing insights and identifying the most effective strategies to enhance inclusivity and equality in European job markets and communities is crucial. I am eager to engage with our Polish counterparts on these topics.”

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Government initiates investigation into water sector to address sewage contamination and deteriorating systems

Activists caution against compromising on environmental regulations to draw investments, as authorities seek financial support to repair sewage spills and outdated systems.

Climate journalist @SeabrookClimate

Wednesday, October 23, 2024, 7:

A newly formed commission will examine the challenges facing Britain's water sector, including sewage contamination, deteriorating systems, and ineffective regulatory bodies.

The UK and Welsh governments announced that the newly formed Independent Water Commission will conduct the most comprehensive examination of the industry since it was privatized.

Activists have raised concerns about the potential compromises between drawing in investments, maintaining reasonable utility costs, and safeguarding the environment.

Amidst public outrage over watercourses contaminated with sewage, hefty bonuses for water company executives, and persistent neglect in constructing essential infrastructure such as reservoirs and sewers, the issue persists.

This year, each of the 11 sewage firms operating in England and Wales has come under scrutiny by the regulatory body Ofwat for poor management of their systems.

The commission is also set to examine ways to overhaul the regulatory bodies, following worries that these entities are under-resourced and ineffective, and have allowed private companies to profit even amid unprecedented levels of pollution.

It might even think about abolishing Ofwat and overhauling the Environment Agency.

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Unidentified tar balls appear on Sydney's shores, leading to the closure of seven beaches

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This December, water providers and their regulatory body will determine the extent of rate increases needed to address certain issues. On Tuesday, these companies proposed a larger rise in bills than originally anticipated.

Environment Secretary Steve Reed stated: "Our rivers and streams are contaminated, and there is an urgent need to repair our water infrastructure."

He further stated that the water commission will "draw in the necessary investments to purify our water bodies and repair our deteriorated water infrastructure."

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Mr. Reed has dismissed the idea of returning the water industry to public ownership as a solution to address pollution issues

The recently established committee will be headed by Sir Jon Cunliffe, who previously served as the deputy governor of the Bank of England.

His report, expected in the next year's second quarter, will be advisory and will guide future laws aimed at drawing sustained investment and improving the condition of the nation's polluted waterways and oceans.

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The Liberal Democrats, primarily supported in rural areas and focused on water-related concerns, emphasized the need for "increased urgency."

The party's environmental representative Tim Farron commented: "While it's good to have an industry review, it should not serve as an excuse to delay urgent changes."

He stated that the government ought to have already established "a new regulatory body with substantial authority and the capability to rein in these profit-seeking companies."

This comes after the new administration's previous declarations to allocate funds specifically for infrastructure improvements, and to increase both the duration of imprisonment and the penalties for executives of water companies that pollute.

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Officials are worried that insufficient infrastructure is impeding development, as inadequate sewage and water systems delay the construction of new housing in Oxfordshire and Cambridge.

River Action's CEO, James Wallace, described the measures as "promising."

He cautioned that "we must not compromise water safety and animal conservation for the sake of development and foreign capital."

Greenpeace described the action as "much delayed," emphasizing the importance of aligning investor interests with the strict enforcement of environmental laws.

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