Results for ‘speech, in, subcommittee, human, rights, on, recent, visit, to, turkey’

May 31, 2016

Speech in subcommittee on Human Rights on recent visit to Turkey

On May 30, Marietje Schaake gave a speech in the meeting of the subcommittee on Human Rights (DROI) on her recent visit to Turkey. Please find below the video (7 minutes) of her intervention. The complete discussion (...

November 17, 2011

Plenary speech on Iran, recent cases of human rights violations

Mr President, where to start? The nuclear dossier dominates our political agendas and campaign rhetoric, but let us never forget the ongoing human rights violations in Iran. These are always important, but especially...

February 16, 2012

Plenary speech on recent developments in Egypt

Mr President, it is clear where the Liberal Group of the European Parliament stands – with the Egyptian people, their rights, freedoms and opportunities. This has been our group’s position for decades. We supported h...

March 15, 2016

No horse trading with Turkey on human rights

Today, the proposal of Member of European Parliament (D66/ALDE) Marietje Schaake to clearly separate the EU-Turkey deal on migration from Turkey’s accession negotiations was adopted by the European Parliament's Foreign A...

April 17, 2014

Plenary Speech on recent prosecutions in Pakistan

http://youtu.be/0Y9CULE4xbU Marietje Schaake - Mr President, the use of blasphemy laws in Pakistan is disturbing and not in line with what we believe are universal human rights. Minorities and apostates specifically s...

November 17, 2011

Resolution on Iran – recent cases of human rights violations

Link to adopted resolution The European Parliament , –  having regard to its previous resolutions on Iran, notably those concerning human rights, and in particular those of 7 September 2010 and 20 January 2011,...

April 13, 2016

Plenary speech on the Report on Turkey

On April 13, Marietje Schaake delivered a speech in the plenary meeting on Turkey. Schaake underlines that we have paid the highest price with the deal on migration, and hopes the Commission and the Council will change t...

May 19, 2016

Report Turkey visit

From Monday 16 May until Wednesday 18 May, Marietje Schaake led the delegation of the European Parliament during a visit to Turkey. Please find below reports by Marietje Schaake on this mission. Media BBC World Ser...

February 6, 2014

Plenary speech and resolution on human rights in Bahrain

Marietje Schaake - Mr President, the unrest and human rights violations in Bahrain will not be overshadowed by fancy advertising campaigns or the sponsorship of the World Economic Forum on CNN. Anyone who looks more...

September 18, 2014

Plenary speech on human rights and democracy

On 18 September, Marietje Schaake spoke in the plenary meeting about human rights and democracy in the world. Marietje Schaake (ALDE). – Madam President, the number of people whose human rights are viola...

March 12, 2012

Debate on human rights violations in Bahrain

Madam President, the sponsoring of the Word Economic Forum in Davos this year by the Government of Bahrain shows its ambition to belong and to be taken seriously by the international and business communities. Bahr...

September 13, 2016

Plenary speech on situation in turkey

Marietje Schaake's speech in the European Parliament during the debate on the situation in Turkey on 13 September 2016. "Turkey needs tough love".

June 16, 2010

Plenary speech on the Annual report on human rights (2008) - EU policies in favour of human rights defenders

Marietje Schaake (ALDE) – Mr President, I would also like to pay tribute to the colleagues we work on human rights with. It is a really pleasant collaboration on such an important topic. There can hardly be a m...

June 23, 2016

Written question on three leading human rights advocates jailed in Turkey

Below, you can find the text of a written question that Marietje Schaake, along with 42 other Members of the European Parliament, submitted to the High Reperesentative.  On 20 June 2016, three leading human rights a...

January 16, 2014

Plenary speech - Recent moves to criminalise LGBTI people

Marietje Schaake − Mr President, while already facing multiple challenges in most countries in the world, LGBTI people have recently been faced with a wave of laws criminalising their identity, speech and behaviour –...

February 23, 2016

MEP Schaake: Deals with Iran and Turkey overshadow human rights

Federica Mogherini, the High Representative of the European Union discussed the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East with the Members of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the European Parliament today. Member of the Europ...

February 7, 2018

The current human rights situation in Turkey and the situation in Afrin, Syria

Plenary speech of MEP Marietje Schaake on the current human rights situation in Turkey and the situation in Afrin, Syria in Strassbourg on the 6th of February 2018.

March 24, 2015

Amendments to report on 'Human rights and technology'

In February, Marietje Schaake (ALDE/D66) called for input for her draft report on 'Human rights and technology: the impact of intrusion and surveillance systems on human rights in third countries'. Through sharing the dr...

September 19, 2018

MEPs: only concrete human rights actions can help improve Turkey relations with the EU

A delegation of subcommittee on human rights members visited Turkey (Ankara and Istanbul) on 17-19 September. The delegation was led by Marietje Schaake. Please find the final statement here below: In meetings with var...

June 8, 2016

Plenary speech on Turkey lifting the parliamentary immunity of 138 members

On June 8, Marietje Schaake delivered a speech on the decision of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey to lift the parliamentary immunity of 138 members.   Marietje Schaake calls on the Commission that the EU acts accor...

March 14, 2012

Resolution on human rights violations in Bahrain

Link to adopted resolution The European Parliament, –   having regard to its previous resolutions of 7 July 2011(1) on the situation in Syria, Yemen and Bahrain in the context of the situation in the Arab world and...

May 23, 2012

Resolution on the human rights situation in Azerbaijan

Link to adopted resolution The European Parliament, –   having regard to its previous resolutions on the situation in Azerbaijan, in particular those concerning human rights, –   having regard to the recommendat...

January 27, 2014

Media: BBC Persian discussing recent visit to Tehran (Farsi)

See the full broadcast below. The interview with Ms Schaake starts at circa 38.30 mins.

September 13, 2012

Visit: Berlin September 2012 - Conference "The Internet and Human Rights"

June 14, 2012

Plenary speech on human rights and the Sahel region

Marietje Schaake − Mr President, despite the challenges at home, the EU risks becoming too inwardly focused, even though events in the rest of the world matter for our security and prosperity. The Southern Neighbourh...

May 13, 2017

Human rights in Iran

Presidential elections in Iran are scheduled to be held in the Islamic Republic of Iran on 19 May. Please find below a letter to High Representative Mogherini initiated by Marietje Schaake, co-signed by 28 Members of the...

February 5, 2014

Plenary speech on collective rights management

Marietje Schaake (ALDE) - Mr President, this is only one hurdle towards much-needed broader, EU-wide copyright reform and the completion of our digital single market. Our goal was to give artists more influence an...

February 15, 2012

Resolution on Egypt: recent developments

Link to adopted resolution The European Parliament, –   having regard to its previous resolutions on Egypt, in particular that of 17 November 2011 on Egypt, in particular the case of blogger Alaa Abd El-Fattah(1),...

September 9, 2010

Plenary speech on human rights in Syria, in particular the case of Haythan Al-Maleh

Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Madam President, Syria is a key player in the Middle East. Last year, when I visited Damascus, I was struck by the potential of the ambitious young Syrian generation....

October 25, 2017

MEP: EU funds to Turkey on hold

The European Parliament just voted on the European budget for 2018. For the coming year, the European Commission has designated more than 200 million Euro in pre-accession support to Turkey. Member of the European Parlia...

December 15, 2010

Plenary speech on Human rights in the world 2009 and EU policy on the matter

Marietje Schaake (ALDE) - Madam President, we are celebrating a significant day with the award of the Sakharov Prize today, but we have a lot more work to do than that. I would like to highlight a few elements from t...

January 21, 2015

Video: Hearing on human rights and technologies

Human rights and technologies: The impact of digital surveillance and intrusion systems on human rights in third countries Wednesday 21 January 2015, 9.00-11.30 Please find below the video registration of the...

May 24, 2018

Intensifying crackdown in Egypt on freedom of speech and human rights defenders

On 24 May, Marietje Schaake submitted parliamentary questions on the intensifying crakcown in Egypt to HR/VP Frederica Mogherini. Please find the questions below.  On 23 May 2018, Egyptian blogger Wael Abbas was a...

May 11, 2016

Plenary speech on EU assistance to Lebanon

On May 10, Marietje Schaake delivered a speech in the plenary meeting on EU assistance to Lebanon. In her speech Marietje Schaake focused on a destabilized Lebanon in which human suffering must not be underestimated. Sch...

January 21, 2010

Plenary speech on recent attacks on religious minorities in Egypt and in Malaysia

Marietje Schaake – Mr President, in the week of Egyptian Orthodox Christmas, an attack took place killing and wounding 20 Coptic Egyptians. Although the attack can be seen as a criminal act of individuals, various ot...

February 6, 2013

Speech on the 22nd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council during February plenary

Mr President, the need to protect and promote human rights in today’s world is becoming an ever more challenging task. It is essential that the UN plays an effective and credible role, especially regarding human righ...

December 16, 2015

Plenary speech: Annual report on human rights and democracy in the world 2014 and the EU policy on the matter

On December 16, Marietje Schaake spoke in the plenary about the annual report on human rights and democracy in the world 2014 and the EU policy on the matter. Marietje Schaake (ALDE) – Mr President, the li...

April 15, 2015

Open Letter Regarding the Human Rights Situation in Azerbaijan

Marietje Schaake, amongst others, wrote an open letter regarding the deteriorating human rights situation in Azerbaijan. Please refer to the letter below.See also Schaake's Parliamentary work on Azerbaijan: 17-09-2014...

September 7, 2015

Report on ‘Human rights and technology: the impact of intrusion and surveillance systems on human rights in third countries’

View Schaake's report on ‘Human rights and technology: the impact of intrusion and surveillance systems on human rights in third countries’ On September 8th, the European Parliament will vote in the plenary mee...

June 25, 2018

Response EP-Turkey Forum to elections in Turkey

Public Statement on the outcome of the 24 June 2018 presidential and parliamentary elections in Turkey   Brussels, 25 June 2018     In a landmark election, the Turkish peo...

April 7, 2010

Parliamentary Question: Reproductive rights in Turkey and abroad

Parliamentary questions7 April 2010 E-2111/10 WRITTEN QUESTION by Marietje Schaake (ALDE) , Alexander Graf Lambsdorff (ALDE) and Sophia in ’t Veld (ALDE) to the Council Subject: Reproductive rights in Turkey and ab...

June 10, 2015

Plenary speech on sport and Human Rights, including in the context of the Baku European Games

Please read Schaake's press release: MEP: No European politicians to European Games in Baku until political prisoners are released. Marietje Schaake (ALDE) – Mr President, the Azerbaijani authorities are eage...

September 22, 2010

Plenary speech on failures in protection of human rights and justice in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Marietje Schaake (ALDE) – Mr President, it is really unspeakably sad that the gravest crimes against humanity took place under the eye of the international community and the UN. We, here in the EU, need to step up ou...

July 18, 2018

Letter to President Erdogan on fundamental rights

On July 18th, Marietje Schaake sent to following letter to President Erdogan of Turkey. The letter was co-signed by 34 MEPs from groups across the political spectrum. Background:  After two years in place, Presid...

April 12, 2016

Letter to VP/HR Mogherini on human rights in Iran, April 2016

Honourable Vice-President/High-Representative, At the Foreign Affairs Council on the 14th of March, you outlined your plans to travel to the Islamic Republic of Iran on the 16th of April with seven of your colleagues...

July 14, 2016

Respect for human rights in Iran crucial

Member of the European Parliament Marietje Schaake (ALDE/D66) only wants to strengthen relations with Iran in exchange for an improvement of the human rights situation. The International Trade Committee of the European P...

November 11, 2016

EU-Iran Human Rights Dialogue

Marietje Schaake sent the following question to High Representative Mogherini today. A second meeting between the EU and Iran, under the framework of a 'High Level political dialogue' took place in Brussels yesterday. To...

September 7, 2017

MEP: EU funds to Turkey on standby

Member of the European Parliament Marietje Schaake (ALDE/D66) wants the European Commission to put EU funds intended for Turkey on standby. For the coming year, the Commission has budgeted more than 200 million euros to...

September 6, 2010

Plenary speech on human rights in Iran, in particular the cases of Sakineh Mohammadi-Ashtiani and of Zahra Bahrami

Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Madam President, as Europeans, we are particularly moved by the human rights situation in Iran, not only because we consider the EU to be a community of values and beli...

October 21, 2010

Plenary speech on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law (Zimbabwe)

Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Mr President, at the EU-Africa Summit in Libya next November there should be talks on how Mugabe and his close supporters remain a continuing stumbling block in the pro...

May 3, 2010

Parliamentary Question: Iran's bid to join the UN Human Rights Council on 13 May

Parliamentary questions3 May 2010 E-3081/10 WRITTEN QUESTION by Marietje Schaake (ALDE) and Alexander Graf Lambsdorff (ALDE) to the Council Subject: Iran's bid to join the UN Human Rights Council on 13 May Accor...

January 12, 2015

Human rights and technologies: The impact of digital surveillance and intrusion systems on human rights in third countries

Human rights and technologies: The impact of digital surveillance and intrusion systems on human rights in third countries   Date: Wednesday 21 January 2015, 9.00-11.30 Venue: European Parliament, Altiero Spinel...

September 17, 2014

Resolution on the persecution of human rights defenders in Azerbaijan

Please see below the text of a resolution on the persecution of human rights defenders in Azerbaijan that adopted by the European Parliament on the 18th of September. European Parliament resolution of 18 September 2014 o...

May 23, 2012

Resolution on the possible withdrawal of Venezuela from the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights

Link to adopted resolution The European Parliament, –   having regard to its previous resolutions on Venezuela, namely that of 24 May 2007 on the Radio Caracas TV channel case(1), that of 23 October 2008 on politic...

December 27, 2013

Media: Voice of America on visit to Iran

On December 24th Marietje Schaake spoke on Voice of America Iran about her recent visit to Tehran with a delegation from the European Parliament. The entire program can be watched below (in Persian). The interview with M...

May 4, 2015

Resolution on the Imprisonment of human and workers' rights activists in Algeria

This Resolution was adopted by the European Parliament on 30 April 2015.European Parliament resolution of 30 April 2015 on the imprisonment of workers and human rights activists in Algeria (2015/2665(RSP)) The Europea...

September 12, 2013

Parliamentary speech and resolution on the human rights situation in Bahrain

Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Mr President, once again we must address the human rights situation in Bahrain. For those who wonder why and suggest that we look at Saudi Arabia’s human rights vi...

December 14, 2016

Speech on the EU's annual report on human rights and democracy

Marietje Schaake's plenary speech on the EU's 2015 Annual Report on human rights and democracy in the world and the European Union's policy on the matter in Strassbourg on 13 December 2016. You can...

June 8, 2015

Blog: Visit to Iran

It is never an easy decision to travel to Iran. I have heard both voices of approval and condemnations from various sides on my 3 visits so far. Weighing them carefully, I believe that engaging, even in difficult cir...

March 13, 2014

Plenary speech - Launching consultations to suspend Uganda and Nigeria from the Cotonou Agreement in view of recent legislation

Marietje Schaake, author - Mr President, Commissioner and colleagues, as the ACP meeting commences in this House, we are forced to take measures in response to the laws which have been adopted in Uganda and Nigeria c...

June 24, 2015

Human rights and religious minorities in Iraq

Human rights and religious minorities in Iraq Tuesday, 30th of June European Parliament, room PHS 7C050 Hosted by Josef Weidenholzer, Marietje Schaake, Ana Gomes, Cornelia Ernst Registration: please contact jo...

May 18, 2016

MEP: "EU leaders must demand Turkish guarantees about human rights!"

ALDE MEP Marietje Schaake wants Vice-President of the European Commission Frans Timmermans and the Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte to demand guarantees from Turkey concerning the safeguarding of the rule of law, human ri...

November 23, 2015

Oral Question & plenary speech on human rights in EU-Vietnam trade negotiations

On September 30, Marietje Schaake (ALDE) together with Bernd Lange (S&D), on behalf of the Committee on International Trade, submitted to the European Commission an Oral Question on human rights in EU-Vietnam trade n...

April 9, 2015

EU must prioritize human rights in Iran after Lausanne

A few days after the historic framework agreements between the P5+1 and Iran on the nuclear program, the contours of the challenges ahead are clear. There are different read-outs of what was and was not agreed in Lausann...

January 20, 2016

Plenary speech on the situation in the South East of Turkey

On January 20, Marietje Schaake spoke in the plenary about the situation in the South East of Turkey. Marietje Schaake (ALDE) – Madam President, the deal on migration that Mr Timmermans rushed through at...

March 1, 2019

Osman Kavala in Turkey

Please find below letters addressed to the Council and to Commissioner Hahn, which were sent on March 1st. In the letters, the MEPs ask the Member States and the Commissioner to engage their Turkish counterparts and to r...

April 14, 2013

Blog on visit to Lebanon: From Beirut to Bekaa

Along the highway running from Beirut into the Bekaa valley a lot of construction and development is going on. A brand new dealer in luxury cars and billboards for cosmetic surgery are lined up along the road; we pass by...

August 12, 2015

Letter to the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs on human rights in Angola

On August 12, Marietje Schaake together with other MEPs sent a letter to High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs / Vice President of the European Commission Mogherini on human rights in Angola. Please find t...

April 14, 2016

MEP: Mogherini must make human rights priority in Iran

To read this post in Farsi please click here.Member of the European Parliament, Marietje Schaake (ALDE/D66) wants High Representative Mogherini to put human rights at the top of the agenda during her visit to Iran next w...

December 19, 2012

Press release: European human rights court rules internet blocking in Turkey unlawful

Dutch Member of European Parliament Marietje Schaake (ALDE/D66) welcomes yesterday's ruling by the European Court of Human Rights in a case against Turkey on extensive internet blocking in the country. The European Court...

December 13, 2018

Egypt: Human rights defenders

Please see below Marietje Schaake's plenary speech. The resolution can be found here.

May 27, 2015

Written Questions on the Moroccan lawsuit against human rights defenders

On May 27, Marietje Schaake sent the following Written Questions to Vice-President / High Representative Mogherini.According to Moroccan state news agency MAP, the Moroccan Interior Ministry has filed a lawsuit on the 8t...

January 27, 2015

Amendments to 2014 Progress Report on Turkey

MOTION FOR A RESOLUTIONto wind up the debate on the statement by the Commission pursuant to Rule 123(2) of the Rules of Procedure on 2014 Commission Progress Report on Turkey (2014/2953(RSP)) Kati Piri on...

January 26, 2016

Written Question: Follow up question on the EU-Turkey deal and the Commission letter to Turkey

On January 26, Marietje Schaake submitted the following Parliamentary Written Questions to the European Commission concerning the EU-Turkey deal and the Commission letter to Turkey. Author: Marietje Schaake Su...

February 5, 2016

EU needs to condemn Russian violations of human rights

Marietje Schaake, Member of the European Parliament (ALDE/D66), urges the European Union to continue to condemn the violations of human rights by Russia. Yesterday, the European Parliament voted on a resolution about the...

April 17, 2018

Response MEP Schaake to enlargement report Turkey

The European Commission just published its yearly progress reports for EU accession countries. While countries such as Macedonia and Albania are taking positive steps, Erdogan's authoritarian policies are leading Turkey'...

July 23, 2015

Written Questions on the mass detention of lawyers and human rights activists in China

On July 23, Marietje Schaake together with 10 other MEPs submitted to Vice-President / High Representative of Foreign Affairs, Federica Mogherini, Parliamentary Written Questions on the mass detention of lawyers and huma...

June 17, 2010

Plenary speech on executions in Libya

Marietje Schaake − Mr President, Europe as a community of values is also a union where the death penalty is entirely banned and I am very proud of that. Libya not only resists abolishing the death penalty, it a...

April 6, 2011

Media: Europeans and Americans Should Freely Urge Turkey to Respect Free Speech

A polarized debate on fundamental freedoms is waging in Turkey. This debate further intensified after the recent arrests of journalists following a court order that criminalizes the possession of a yet unpublished book....

January 19, 2010

Plenary speech on the situation in Iran

Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Mr President, last summer, I got elected to the European Parliament by voicing criticism against my own government. A young woman in Iran, having done the same, would h...

October 2, 2018

Transnational corporations and human rights

December 17, 2012

Statement on planning to visit Bahrain

Brussels, December 17th 2012 Statement on planning to visit Bahrain A delegation of Members of the European Parliament has been preparing to visit Bahrain this week with a program focused on human rights. The Parli...

January 12, 2015

Human rights and technologies: The impact of digital surveillance and intrusion systems on human rights in third countries

Human rights and technologies: The impact of digital surveillance and intrusion systems on human rights in third countries Date: Wednesday 21 January 2015, 9.00-11.30 Venue: European Parliament, Altiero Spinel...

November 27, 2015

EU-Turkey cooperation on refugee crisis must be based on respect for fundamental rights

Ahead of meeting of the EU heads of state or government with Turkey, taking place on Sunday in Brussels, the ALDE Group in the European Parliament calls on Donald Tusk, the President of the European Council, to address t...

May 6, 2010

Recent statements by Catholic leaders on paedophilia

ORAL QUESTION WITH DEBATE pursuant to Rule 115 of the Rules of Procedure by Baroness Sarah Ludford, Renate Weber, Sophia in 't Veld, Leonidas Donskis, Gianni Vattimo, Cecilia Wikström, Ivo Vajgl, Jelko Kacin, Nathalie Gr...

February 15, 2012

Plenary speech on the 19th session of the UN Human Rights Council

Mr President, human rights and their universality are increasingly under pressure as a result of block politics in the United Nations and because of allowing countries into the Human Rights Council who have less than...

December 14, 2018

"EP adopts resolution condemning human rights violations in Egypt"

The European Parliament adopted a resolution on Thursday condemning “continuous restrictions on fundamental democratic rights” in Egypt and calling on the Egyptian government to end its crackdown on human rights wo...

September 27, 2011

Plenary speech on sexual orientation and gender identity at the UN Human Rights Council

Madam President, Madam High Representative, we spoke about the Middle East today as well as the turnarounds in North Africa. We touched on the urgent need for the EU to be a partner in ensuring that reforms on human...

May 4, 2017

EU-Egypt partnership priorities and human rights

This week, Marietje Schaake, supported by 41 MEP's from different political groups submitted the following questions to High-Representative Federica Mogherini. Following the horrendous bombing of two Coptic churches in E...

February 8, 2018

EU must end silence on human rights violations in Egypt

Today the European Parliament adopted a resolution on Egypt, initiated by MEP Marietje Schaake. With this resolution, the Parliament calls on EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini and the Member States to condemn th...

March 13, 2019

MEP Schaake welcomes Parliamentary call to suspend Turkey accession negotiations

The European Parliament just voted to suspend the accession negotiations with Turkey. Member of the European Parliament Marietje Schaake welcomes the broad majority that endorsed the earlier recommendation by the foreign...

September 7, 2015

Plenary debate on Human rights and technology in third countries (report)

On September 7th, during the European Parliament's plenary meeting, Marietje Schaake presented her report on ‘Human rights and technology: the impact of intrusion and surveillance systems on human rights in third countri...

September 1, 2015

Written Questions on press freedom in Turkey

On September 1st, Marietje Schaake submitted the following Parliamentary Written Questions to the European Commission concerning press freedom in Turkey. Author: Marietje Schaake Subject: Press freedo...

December 10, 2014

ALDE celebrates Human Rights Day

Today, December 10, the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe (ALDE) in the European Parliament, celebrates Human Rights Day. On this day in 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declara...

March 14, 2016

Amendments to 2015 Progress Report on Turkey

DRAFT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION to wind up the debate on the statement by the Commission pursuant to Rule 123(2) of the Rules of Procedure on the 2015 report on Turkey (2015/2898(RSP)) Kati Piri on behalf o...

September 6, 2018

European human rights sanctions regime

Last week, the HR/VP chaired the informal foreign affairs council in Austria. Amongst others, the ministers discussed the need to further strengthen multilateralism and reinforceme the rules based multilateral order. The...

October 20, 2015

Blog (Project Syndicate) - Talking Tough to Turkey

On October 20, this blog by Marietje Schaake was published on Project Syndicate. When suicide bombers killed at least 97 people at a rally of pro-Kurdish activists and civic groups advocating peace between the Turkish g...

April 22, 2015

MEPs: We must defend all those standing on the front-line for free speech in Turkey

Press Freedom in Turkey will be debated this afternoon in a joint conference by the ALDE Group and the Green Group in the European Parliament, focusing on the main issues journalists are facing in this country. G...

March 9, 2011

Plenary speech on the 16th session of the United Nation Human Rights Council (Geneva, 28/2 - 25/3)

Mr President, the UN Human Rights Council has the potential to address the ever more urgent and elaborate human rights violations across the world in different countries – Iran, Belarus, Burma, Tunisia, Libya, etc.,...

October 26, 2012

Press release: Human rights prize awarded to Iranians in recognition of their struggle for freedom

Iranian lawyer and human rights activist Nasrin Sotoudeh  and  Iranian film-maker Jafar Panahihave won the Sakharov Prize 2012 which is the annual human rights prize of the European Parliament. They were nominated for th...

April 16, 2015

Seminar "Press Freedom in Turkey"

Seminar "Press Freedom in Turkey"   Wednesday 22 April 2015, 15:30-18:00h European Parliament, Brussels Room PHS 5 B 001 The conference "Press Freedom in Turkey" will be available in live streaming from 15....

March 14, 2018

Court of Auditors report on pre-accession support to Turkey

Please find below questions I submitted in response to a critical Court of Auditors report on pre-accession support to Turkey.  A Court of Auditor’s(CoA) report released today on EU pre-accession assistance to Turk...

March 10, 2014

MEP: EU needs to address human rights Saudi Arabia

Dutch Member of the European Parliament, Marietje Schaake (ALDE/D66), wants the EU to conduct a firm dialogue with Saudi Arabia about human rights, freedoms and the role of the country in the region. Tomorrow, the Europe...

August 3, 2013

EU should start human rights dialogue with Iran

On the day before the inauguration of the new Iranian president Rohani, Dutch Member of European Parliament Marietje Schaake (ALDE/D66) calls on the EU to invite Iran for an ongoing dialogue on human rights and democracy...

July 17, 2018

Syrian asylum seekers in Turkey

On July 17th, Marietje Schaake submitted parliamentary written questions to the Commission on the reported suspension of registration of Syrian asylum seekers in Turkey. Please find the questions below. On July 16th 20...

March 7, 2016

MEP: European Parliament must address rule of law and rights violations in Turkey

D66/ALDE Member of European Parliament Marietje Schaake calls for a debate with the European Commission about the appalling human rights violations in Turkey. Last Friday Turkey's largest newspaper was taken over by the...

September 14, 2011

Resolution on Belarus: the arrest of human rights defender Ales Bialatski

Link to original adopted resolution. The European Parliament, –   having regard to its previous resolutions on Belarus, in particular those of 12 May 2011, 10 March 2011, 20 January 2011 and 17 December 2009, –...

October 3, 2017

MEP: Europe's silence on Egypt’s human rights violations is deafening

For the first time since 2015, the European Parliament today debates the state of play of EU-Egypt relations. Member of the European Parliament Marietje Schaake (ALDE/D66) has consistently called for a critical EU respon...

May 6, 2010

Parliamentary Question: Recent statements by Catholic leaders on paedophilia

Parliamentary questions6 May 2010 O-0058/10 ORAL QUESTION WITH DEBATE pursuant to Rule 115 of the Rules of Procedure by Baroness Sarah Ludford, Renate Weber, Sophia in 't Veld, Leonidas Donskis, Gianni Vattimo, Cecili...

March 16, 2016

Letter on the protection of human rights defenders

On March 16, Marietje Schaake sent a letter to Jean- Louis Ville, Directorate for Human Development and Migration of the European Commission, on the protection of human rights defenders and the state of play of a Human R...

June 14, 2012

Plenary speech on cases of impunity in the Philippines

Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Mr President, President Aquino declared that human rights, good governance and the fight against corruption will be a priority. He wants clear policies against extra-ju...

June 9, 2016

Discussion on press freedom in Turkey with Can Dundar, Brussels

 Marietje Schaake (Member in the Subcommittee on Human Rights) is hosting a panel discussion together with Kati Piri (Rapporteur on the Progress Report on Turkey), and Rebecca Harms (President of the Greens/EFA in the Eu...

June 14, 2012

Letter to Prime Minister Erdoğan on remarks about abortion in Turkey

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January 15, 2015

MEP: Egyptian government must respect human rights (Resolution)

Today the European Parliament adopted a resolution initiated by MEP Marietje Schaake (D66/ALDE) on the situation in Egypt. Schaake: “We condemn the systematic repression under the regime in Egypt. After Mubarak and Morsi...

December 14, 2015

Written Questions on Turkey detaining 3,000 refugees after EU deal

On December 14, Marietje Schaake submitted the following Parliamentary Written Questions to the European Commission concerning the detention of about 3,000 migrants and refugees in Turkey. Author: Marietje Schaak...

April 13, 2016

MEP: Reject cynical deal making with Turkey and focus on rule of law and rights

Today the European Parliament debates its annual report on Turkey’s progress towards becoming an EU Member. Member of European Parliament Marietje Schaake (ALDE/D66) responds: "This report is the most critical on the bac...

March 26, 2017

Interview on EU-Turkey relations

November 29, 2012

Invitation: 4/12 - Roundtable on Bahrain: How to step-up the EU's response to ongoing Human Rights violations?

Marietje Schaake MEP & FIDH cordially invite you to a working group roundtable on Bahrain: How to step-up the EU's response to ongoing Human Rights violations? Tuesday, December 4th 2012 / from 08.30 - 10.00...

April 16, 2017

Erdogan's Referendum Victory Puts Turkey on Collision Course With Europe

By Emre Peker and Laurence Norman16 April 2017Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's victory in Sunday's referendum could pave the way for pragmatic cooperation with the U.S. while setting him o...

February 15, 2012

Media: EU IT Companies to Get Guidance on Human Rights Issues

Just as European surveillance and mobile-message filtering companies come under increasing pressure to safeguard human rights, two Irish companies have been reported as selling tech to the Syrian regime that is being use...

June 23, 2015

Written Questions on GCC-EU human rights cooperation

On June 23, Marietje Schaake together with nine other MEPs submitted Parliamentary Written Questions to Commission Vice-President / High Representative of Foreign Affairs, Federica Mogherini, on human rights cooperation...

April 22, 2011

Inquiry into role of European companies in violation of human rights

Question for written answer E-004363/2011to the Commission, 22.04.11 Rule 117 Marietje Schaake (ALDE) Subject: Written Question E-002212/2011 - Inquiry into role of European companies in violation of human rig...

February 5, 2016

New Alliances in Cybersecurity, Human Rights & Internet Governance (Stanford University)

New Alliances in Cybersecurity, Human Rights  & Internet Governance February 17, 2016 Bechtel Conference Center, Encina Hall, Freeman Spogli Institute Stanford University Invitation only | More info...

June 30, 2011

Parliamentary Question: Recent protests in Belarus and possible IMF loan to Belarus

Parliamentary questions30 June 2011 E-006360/2011   Question for written answer to the Commission Rule 117 Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy (ALDE) and Marietje Schaake (ALDE)  Subject: Recent protests in Belarus and possi...

April 16, 2015

Seminar "Press Freedom in Turkey"

Seminar "Press Freedom in Turkey"   Wednesday 22 April 2015, 15:30-18:00h European Parliament, Brussels Room PHS 5 B 001 The conference "Press Freedom in Turkey" will be available in live streaming from 15....

October 22, 2009

Plenary speech on Iran

Marietje Schaak – Mr President, any government derives its legitimacy from providing for the well-being of its own citizens. Any regime that fails at this most basic responsibility loses its legitimacy in the interna...

July 18, 2014

Plenary speech on the situation in Iraq

Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Mr President, the events in Iraq and in fact the entire Middle East are very worrying but the situation does not come out of the blue. The Islamic State (IS) was able t...

December 13, 2012

Plenary speech on caste discrimination in India

Marietje Schaake − Mr President, as caste discrimination and modern-day slavery are still serious and systematic problems affecting hundreds of millions of Indians, more needs to be done in terms of the efforts that th...

May 20, 2010

Plenary speech on the situation in Thailand

Marietje Schaake – Madam President, Thailand is going through a violent crisis with the red-shirt demonstrators on the one hand, and the army and the yellow-shirts on the other. Around 80 people have already lost the...

October 27, 2016

Situation of journalists in Turkey

Marietje Schaake speech on the situation of journalists in Turkey in the plenary session of the European Parliament on 27 October 2016. You can find the adopted resolution here.

December 1, 2015

Schaake responds to ruling ECHR Turkey

In an important ruling today, the European Court of Human Rights ruled unanimously that Turkey violated the right to freedom of expression of three Turkish academics by blocking access to YouTube for two years between Ma...

February 8, 2016

Written Question on the Juncker letter to Renzi about the EU-Turkey deal

On February 8, Marietje Schaake sent priority Parliamentary Written Questions to the European Commission concerning the letter about the EU-Turkey deal, sent by European Commission President Juncker to Italian Prime Mini...

March 12, 2019

European human rights violations sanctions regime

August 6, 2018

European Parliament support for Canadian government on Saudi human rights

On August 5th, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia declared the Canadian ambassador in Riyadh persona non grata, recalled its own ambassador from Ottawa and announced it will halt all new bilateral trade and investment flows....

July 8, 2015

Plenary speech on EU support to Tunisia

Marietje Schaake (ALDE) – Mr President, like any sensible person I was shocked and appalled by the cowardly terrorist attack on tourists in Tunisia. My sympathy goes to the victims and their families and loved one...

September 18, 2014

Plenary speech on the situation in Libya

On 17 September, Marietje Schaake spoke in the plenary meeting about the instable situation in Libya. Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group - Mr President, after the people of Libya bravely defea...

July 1, 2014

EU policy towards Egypt must focus on human rights

This article appeared on Euractiv.com on 01-07-2014. Find the link here. Dutch Liberal MEP, Marietje Schaake has called on the European Union institutions and member states not to forget the political turmoil...

December 13, 2011

Plenary speech on the situation in Syria

Mr President, as we speak the Syrian city of Homs is being surrounded by no less than 400 tanks. We have seen this movie before. However, in Hama in 1982 there were no cameras acting as eye witness to the world. Now...

March 13, 2014

Plenary speech - EU priorities for the 25th session of the UN Human Rights Council

Marietje Schaake (ALDE ) - Mr President, the violations of human rights across the world at this moment are so vast and so numerous that it is difficult to do the suffering justice. From rape as a weapon of war in Af...

March 16, 2015

Visit to Washington D.C.

Marietje Schaake, Vice-President of the US Delegation in the European Parliament, brings a three-day visit to Washington D.C. The President and 2 Vice-Presidents of the US Delegation of the European Parliament will...

June 14, 2012

Visit: Stockholm June 2012 - EuroDig

September 16, 2013

Speech at BKB Lecture 2014: Polarisation, and how the EU lost the progressives in Turkey

On September 13th 2013, Marietje Schaake gave a reaction to the 5th BKB Lecture by Turkish politician Safak Pavey. The full text of Marietje Schaake's speech can be found below. Polarisation, and how the EU lo...

October 9, 2013

Plenary speech on Syrian refugees

"Mr President, for two and a half years we have been eye-witnesses to the horrible war in Syria, and politically and diplomatically the EU has stood on the sidelines while Syrians are facing the worst atrocities...

October 15, 2015

Marietje Schaake proposes 12 actions to remedy human rights shortcomings in the EU's dual use regulation

As part of the Commission's public online consultation on the review of the EU's export control policy Marietje Schaake proposes the following 12 actions to remedy the shortcomings in the EU's export control regime for d...

April 23, 2014

Letter to Commissioner Füle concerning MIT law in Turkey

 Štefan FüleEuropean Commissioner for Enlargement and Neighbourhood PolicyRue de La Loi 200B-1049 Bruxelles Dear Commissioner Füle, Štefan, Last week, the Turkish Parliament passed a law which gives new powers to the...

January 25, 2016

Commission letter to Turkey on renewing accession negotiations

Mid-October 2015 a hastily agreed deal between the EU and Turkey was announced. On 29 November it was formalized, when Vice-President of the Commission, Frans Timmermans officially announced the deal with Turkey, regardi...

May 12, 2010

Parliamentary Question: Iran elected to UN Commission on women's rights

Parliamentary questions12 May 2010 E-3400/10 WRITTEN QUESTION by Marietje Schaake (ALDE) and Alexander Graf Lambsdorff (ALDE) to the Council Subject: Iran elected to UN Commission on women's rights On 28 April,...

May 20, 2010

Plenary speech on religious freedom in Pakistan

Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Madam President, blasphemy laws in Pakistan, as various colleagues have pointed out, are easily abused by extremists as an excuse to use violence against religious or n...

October 29, 2014

Written Questions on the export of Netclean technology to Turkey

On 29 October, Marietje Schaake submitted Written Questions to the European Commission about the export of Netclean technology to Turkey. Author: Marietje Schaake Subject: Export of Netclean technology to Turk...

June 7, 2016

Plenary speech on the situation in Bangladesh

On June 7th, Marietje Schaake delivered a speech on behalf of ALDE on the extreme violence against human rights defenders, LGBT activists, journalists, bloggers and relgious minorities  in Bangladesh. Schaake underlines...

March 13, 2013

Plenary speech on the situation in Syria

Mr President, let me start by offering my condolences on the death of Ahmad Shihadeh, a policy officer at the EU representation in Damascus. Sadly the days when the deaths of individuals in Syria make European news a...

February 6, 2014

Plenary speech - Right to education in the Transnistrian region

Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Mr President, the conflict in Transnistria risks being forgotten, when the problems – especially when it comes to access to education – do deserve our attention. We mus...

December 6, 2017

Free Osman Kavala and all political prisoners in Turkey!

On the night of October 18th, world-known Turkish philanthropist Osman Kavala was arrested by the police in a plane at the Istanbul Ataturk airport. Since then, he has been detained in prison and is facing violent...

July 3, 2013

Plenary speech on the situation in Egypt

Marietje Schaake addresses the plenary sitting of the European Parliament on the situation in Egypt on the eve of the ousting of President Morsi on July 3rd 2013. Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Mr...

March 28, 2012

Debate on enlargement report for Turkey

Mr President, today we call for a renewed boost in EU-Turkish relations and to open the negotiation chapters on the most essential issues now: the chapters on fundamental freedoms, justice and the rule of law. Our...

December 16, 2010

Plenary speech on Eritrean refugees held hostage in Sinai

Marietje Schaake – Mr President, about 250 Eritrean migrants are believed to be held hostage in the Sinai desert and inhumane treatment and rape are reported while these people await a ransom that needs to be paid to...

October 1, 2018

LGBTI rights in Chechnya

February 21, 2019

Turkey Faces Crucial Vote on EU Accession Before Local Ballot

The European Union will hold a crucial vote on whether to maintain negotiations to bring Turkey into the bloc before local Turkish elections. On Wednesday, a European parliament committee voted to suspend the years-long...

December 10, 2015

Letter to European Commission President Juncker and First Vice-President Timmermans on the deal between the EU and Turkey

On December 10, Marietje Schaake together with 33 other Members of the European Parliament sent an open letter to European Commission President Juncker and First Vice-President Timmermans. It requests the Commission t...

October 3, 2013

Media: Insight: Turkey questions its EU future as Brussels looks to Balkans - Reuters

Turkey has been trying for years to join the European Union, presenting itself as a growing economic and political power and a bridge to Asian and Middle Eastern markets.Adrian Croft, Reuters, 03.10.2013 But the next...

March 20, 2019

Workshop: Is Artificial Intelligence a Human Rights Issue?

September 13, 2012

Schaake: "Ashton should address visit of al-Bashir to Cairo in talks with Morsi."

Dutch Member of European Parliament, Marietje Schaake (D66/ALDE), urges Catherine Ashton in her talks today with Egyptian President Morsi to address the announced visit of Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir to Cairo for t...

November 19, 2015

Business and Human Rights (UK Law Society)

Business and Human Rights UK Law Society December 1 UK Law Societies' Joint Office, 85 Avenue de Nerviens, Brussels Business and human rights are often thought of as strange bedfellows, and their interaction...

November 19, 2015

Business and Human Rights (UK Law Society)

Business and Human Rights UK Law Society December 1 UK Law Societies' Joint Office, 85 Avenue de Nerviens, Brussels Business and human rights are often thought of as strange bedfellows, and their interaction...

January 26, 2015

Media (EU Reporter): Human rights and surveillance: Can the EU ensure the democratic usage of its technologies?

On January 26 2015, the article below was published on EU Reporter. “There is a proliferation of surveillance technologies around the world. It is easy and likely that these technologies, which could be of harm t...

March 26, 2014

Media: Europeans say human rights on agenda with Iran - Al-Monitor

 While the world’s attention is focused on Iran’s nuclear program, the European Union and European Parliament have broadened the agenda to include Iran’s poor record on human rights in a way that has spurred new debate w...

November 15, 2016

Don’t let human rights be only a virtual reality

Yesterday evening the Foreign Affairs committee voted on the annual report on the situation of human rights in the world. Member of the European Parliament Marietje Schaake (D66/ALDE): "Human rights are being violated wo...

January 16, 2014

Plenary speech - Situation of rights defenders and opposition activists in Cambodia and Laos

Marietje Schaake − Mr President, we are very concerned about recent violations of rights and freedoms in Cambodia. The elections took place amidst irregularities and these must be independently investigated. In addit...

March 1, 2018

Plenary speech on the situation in Syria

On 28 February 2018, Marietje Schaake spoke in the plenary about the situation in Syria. See also on Syria: 7 February 2018: Plenary speech on the current human rights situation in Afrin, Syria24 January 2018: Lett...

April 6, 2017

Letter to President Tajani on planned visit of Syria's representative to the European Parliament

Official letter sent to President Tajani on the 6th of April 2017.Dear President Tajani, Next Monday our colleagues of the Syria Peace Process Support Group (which is not an official EP body) are planning to host the hig...

February 3, 2011

Parliamentary Question: Violation of the European Convention on Human Rights by Greece and Belgium

Parliamentary questions3 February 2011 O-000023/2011   Question for oral answer to the Commission Rule 115 Cecilia Wikström, Renate Weber, Sonia Alfano, Nadja Hirsch, Sophia in 't Veld, Louis Michel, Nathalie Grie...

January 16, 2013

Plenary speech on the situation in Syria

Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Mr President, it is regrettable we could not have this debate on the terrible situation in Syria with the High Representative herself when she finally did decide to ful...

June 12, 2013

European Parliament key debate on situation in Turkey

On the initiative of the Liberal Group in the European Parliament MEPs will debate the current situation in Turkey. Political groups have drafted a Joint Motion for Resolution that will be the basis of the debate, dur...

September 3, 2015

Interview - Marietje Schaake: EU technology should not be used to violate human rights

This interview with Marietje Schaake appeared on 3 September 2015 on the European Parliament's website. Technology can help people to express themselves, but it can also be used to violate their human right...

May 20, 2010

Plenary speech on Burma

Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Madam President, Burma will hold so-called elections this year. However, these cannot be free and fair if Buddhist monks are banned from voting and the opposition is no...

July 4, 2012

Plenary speech on the situation in Egypt

Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Mr President, the Egyptian people have been joined by us and many across the world in celebrating the historic moment of the election of the first President to be el...

May 20, 2015

Plenary debate on the 2014 Progress Report on Turkey

Marietje Schaake (ALDE) – Madam President, the annual progress report has sadly become a regress report. The concerns we have on the rule of law, separation of powers, human rights and fundamental freedoms are now ev...

April 6, 2011

Europeans and Americans Should Freely Urge Turkey to Respect Free Speech

A polarized debate on fundamental freedoms is waging in Turkey. This debate further intensified after the recent arrests of journalists following a court order that criminalizes the possession of a yet unpublished book.D...

September 7, 2010

Resolution on the human rights situation in Iran, in particular the cases of Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani and Zahra Bahrami

The European Parliament, –   having regard to its previous resolutions on Iran, notably those concerning human rights, and in particular those of 22 October 2009(1) and 10 February 2010(2), –   having regard to the...

September 14, 2011

Plenary speech on the situation in Syria

Madam President, even in the face of the most horrific crimes in Syria, the EU finds it difficult to speak with a strong and united voice. In Syria, snipers are shooting people for holding a cell phone, children a...

September 10, 2015

Plenary speech on Azerbaijan

On September 10, Marietje Schaake spoke in the plenary debate about the human rights situation in Azerbaijan. The European Parliament then adopted a resolution on Azerbaijan. Marietje Schaake in her response urged the...

April 30, 2015

Plenary speech & Resolution on the situation in the Maldives

Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group. – Madam President, last month former president Nasheed, the first democratically-elected president of the Maldives, was sentenced to 13 years in prison. Charges of...

March 14, 2018

Plenary speech on the situation in Syria

On 13 March 2018, Marietje Schaake spoke in the plenary about the situation in Syria.  See also on Syria: See also on Syria: 28 February 2018: Plenary speech on the situation in Syria7 February 2018: Plenary s...

September 10, 2015

MEP: EU must speak out against human rights violations Azerbaijan

Member of the European Parliament, Marietje Schaake (ALDE/D66), wants the European Commission, the High Representative and the Member States to speak out against human rights violations in Azerbaijan. Today the European...

May 6, 2015

Baku Games: Run for Human Rights

Baku Games: Run for Human Rights 12 May 2015 13:30-15:00 Room ASP1G3 - European Parliament Azerbaijan is hosting the European Games this year in June. Today's event will raise attention towards Human Righ...

November 18, 2013

Plenary speech on the new Erasmus+ Programme

Marietje Schaake (ALDE) - Mr President, international skills for people enrolled in academic and vocational education are becoming increasingly important in order for them to enter into an internationalised job marke...

June 18, 2013

Media: EU failed to ‘use the financial and political leverage at their disposal’ to improve human rights situation in Egypt, claims new report - European Jewish Press

 EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton and the European Commission came under criticism from the European Court of Auditors (ECA) Tuesday, as a new report published by the body concluded they had “not been able to eff...

May 24, 2012

Plenary speech on Azerbaijan

Mr President, as the Eurovision finalists warm up their voices and practise their dance routines, the voices of the people in Azerbaijan are muffled. Much as the authorities may want to make the Eurovision Song Conte...

July 8, 2015

Plenary speech on the situation in Yemen

Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Mr President, Commissioner, colleagues. The poor people of Yemen have suffered structurally from a lack of inclusive democratic governments, and the tensions and vio...

April 19, 2012

Parliamentary Question: Recent G-8 ‘Non-paper on intellectual property rights protection’

Parliamentary questions19 April 2012 E-004052/2012 Question for written answer to the Council Rule 117 Marietje Schaake (ALDE) Subject: Recent G-8 ‘Non-paper on intellectual property rights protection’ Judg...

September 17, 2014

Plenary speech on trade with EuroMed countries

On 15 September, Marietje Schaake spoke in the plenary meeting about trade with the EuroMed countries. Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group. – Mr President, trade is an essential part of our com...

December 2, 2015

Media (Carnegie Europe) - Judy Asks: Is the EU Selling Out to Turkey?

Every week, a selection of leading experts answer a new question from Judy Dempsey on the foreign and security policy challenges shaping Europe’s role in the world. Please find the response by Marietje Schaake below,...

September 11, 2012

Plenary speech on the situation in Syria

Mr President, after so many debates on Syria, I already know what we are going to be hearing from you: it is a terrible tragedy; human rights have to be respected; Assad has lost his legitimacy; the EU has imposed s...

May 31, 2012

Visit: Berlin May 2012 - ECFR

April 18, 2018

EU Commission slams Turkey in annual report on country's accession prospects

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March 8, 2011

Media: Turkey on trial

The European Parliament’s report on Turkey will be voted on this week. It will highlight broader concerns with Turkey’s lack of media freedom.By Marietje Schaake, 8.3.2011, www.hurriyetdailynews.com As some of my read...

September 21, 2015

MEPs respond to the appointment of Saudi Arabia's ambassador at the UN Human Rights Council

The ALDE Group in the European Parliament strongly disagrees with the decision taken by the United Nations to hand over a key human rights role to Saudi Arabia’s ambassador at the UN in Geneva, who was elected as chair o...

March 13, 2013

Plenary speech on the situation in Egypt

Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Mr President, Egypt is on the brink of economic, political and social instability. This should trouble us and should make us take decisive action. For two and a half...

July 4, 2012

Plenary speech on the situation in Syria

Mr President, it has been six weeks since the gruesome videos of the Hula massacre found their way to the Internet. Murdered children were considered a ‘tipping-point’ by many but, just like the words ‘never again’,...

February 15, 2012

Plenary speech on the situation in Syria

Madam President, it is easy to condemn the brutal murder, torture and rape of unarmed citizens and children in Syria, but it is far more difficult to find effective solutions: the EU needs a strategy, and while no on...

October 7, 2010

Resolution on failures in protection of human rights and justice in the Democratic Republic of Congo

The European Parliament, –   having regard to its previous resolutions on the DRC, in particular those of 17 January 2008 on the situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo and rape as a war crime(1) and 17 December...

March 8, 2016

INTA delegation visit to Canada

From March 21-23, Marietje Schaake will visit Canada with the Committee on International Trade (INTA) The visit to Canada will among others be in the context of CETA, the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (...

September 10, 2013

ALDE Motion for a Resolution on the Human Rights Situation in Bahrain

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October 22, 2012

Parliamentary question: Morocco - human rights violations and ratification of the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture

Please find the answers of the Commission here.

May 26, 2015

MEP: EU needs smart policies to strengthen human rights while technologies proliferate

Member of the European Parliament Marietje Schaake (ALDE/D66) welcomes the adoption of the report "Human rights and technology: the impact of intrusion and surveillance systems on human rights in third countries" she ini...

October 7, 2015

Plenary speech on the situation in Syria

On October 7, Marietje Schaake spoke in the plenary debate aboutthe situation in Syria. Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Mr President, I note with regret that there is no one to address here...

April 8, 2014

MEP: Cancellation Iranian visit to EP is revealing

Member of the European Parliament, Marietje Schaake (ALDE/D66) says it is revealing that Iranian Parliamentarians decided to cancel their visit to the European Parliament at the last minute. The Iranian parliament today...

July 5, 2012

Speech on situation in Egypt during July plenary session

Mr President, the Egyptian people have been joined by us and many across the world in celebrating the historic moment of the election of the first President to be elected democratically and, most importantly, as a no...

June 14, 2012

Plenary speech on the situation of ethnic minorities in Iran

Marietje Schaake − Mr President, it is safe to say that all Iranians are repressed and live in a culture of state-inflicted violence every day. This sad reality of the Islamic Republic must not be overshadowed by the...

December 13, 2012

Plenary speech on the situation in Egypt

Mr President, this is another urgent appeal for leadership by Vice-President/High Representative Ashton. Early last year the EU made a promise to our citizens and to people in North Africa and the Middle East wh...

June 17, 2010

Plenary speech on Nepal

Marietje Schaake  − Mr President, after a decade of civil war a peace deal was struck in Nepal in 2006, but unfortunately the country has become less peaceful despite the deal. Political fights are resulting in polit...

September 16, 2014

Written Question to the Commission concerning internet censorship laws in Turkey

On 16 September, Marietje Schaake submitted written questions to the European Commission concerning internet censorship laws in Turkey. Please see below a plain text version and the original document. --- On 10 Sep...

November 11, 2011

Parliamentary Question: VP/HR — Technology exported to Iran by EU‑based companies which is used to violate human rights

Parliamentary questions11 November 2011 E-010306/2011   Question for written answer to the Commission Rule 117 Marietje Schaake (ALDE)  Subject: VP/HR — Technology exported to Iran by EU‑based companies which...

February 6, 2014

Plenary speech on the situation in Egypt

Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Mr President, while I welcome the Commissioner, I really wish the High Representative, Ms Ashton, had been here herself. In Egypt, even when governments have changed...

May 12, 2011

Plenary speech on Azerbaijan

Mr President, while we welcome the release from prison of c and Emin Milli, the good news about Azerbaijan ends about there. The European Parliament is very concerned about the massive crackdown on freedom of express...

September 11, 2013

Plenary speech and resolution on the situation in Syria

Marietje Schaake (ALDE) - Mr President, we must welcome the opportunity to explore a UN-supported deal to end the use of chemical weapons by Assad, yet many major problems remain: a humanitarian disaster, the gr...

September 11, 2013

Plenary speech and resolution on the situation in Egypt

Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Mr President, in the turmoil that Egypt has gone through in the past two-and-a-half years, and especially during diplomatic efforts last summer, the EU has taken a lead...

February 2, 2016

Plenary speech on negotiations for the Trade in Services Agreement (TiSA)

On February 1, Marietje Schake spoke in the plenary about the negotiations for the Trade in Services Agreement (TiSA). Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Mr President, the European Union is the world...

May 21, 2015

MEP: Turkey must reverse authoritarian trend to remain a key EU partner

Today the European Parliament will vote on the annual progress report on Turkey. The resolution will be the most critical ever adopted of this kind. At the same time Members of European Parliament across the political sp...

June 6, 2013

Media: MEPs criticise EEAS for late reaction on protests in Turkey - New Europe

The members of the European Parliament (MEPs) sitting in the Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET) heavily criticised the “late and weak” reaction of the European External Action Service (EEAS) on the protests in Turkey du...

May 18, 2010

Plenary speech on institutional aspects of accession by the European Union to the ECHR

Marietje Schaake (ALDE) – Madam President, as we review the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, let us be reminded that its creation truly marks a success for liberal democracy and a commitment to effec...

April 17, 2017

Friends of Turkey statement on outcome of constitutional referendum

Taking note of the results of the constitutional referendum held in Turkey on April 16, Marietje Schaake, together with the Friends of Turkey group in the European Parliament issued the following statement:"Turkey emerge...

October 22, 2014

Plenary speech on the situation in Hong Kong

On 22 October, Marietje Schaake spoke in the plenary debate about the situation in Hong Kong. (Full text below.) Mr President, the people in Hong Kong have had every reason to demand a more democratic system...

May 11, 2015

MEP: Turkey must step back from authoritarian reforms to remain key EU partner

Dutch Member of the European Parliament Marietje Schaake (ALDE/D66) responds after the adoption of the annual Turkey report in the foreign affairs committee: "The text was significantly sharpened compared to the draft...

October 29, 2015

Media (Euronews: The Network) - Are refugees or civil rights the priority in Turkey?

Today, Marietje Schaake debated on Euronews: The Network the situation in Turkey, amongst which the refugee crisis, the upcoming Turkish elections, and the crackdown on ethnic Kurds and the media. Also taking part in th...

September 28, 2012

Visit: Rabat September 2012 - GMF Atlantic Dialogue

April 18, 2013

Plenary speech on Guantánamo bay

On Thursday 18 April the European Parliament debated the situation in the Guantanamo bay prison, particulary the recent hunger strike of several detainees. The EPP and S&D political groups decided to postpone a vote...

March 12, 2014

MEP: Syria should be EU human rights priority

Dutch Member of the European Parliament, Marietje Schaake (ALDE/D66), wants the EU to treat the Syrian crisis as an absolute priority. Today the European Parliament will debate about the EU's priorities for the United Na...

February 14, 2019

Women's rights defenders in Saudi Arabia

Plenary speech Resolution European Parliament resolution of 14 February 2019 on women’s rights defenders in Saudi Arabia (2019/2564(RSP)) The European Parliament, –  having regard to its previous resolut...

February 8, 2018

Intervention on Russia, the case of Oyub Titiev and the Human Rights Memorial Center

Plenary speech of MEP Marietje Schaake on Russia, the case of Oyub Titiev and the Human Rights Memorial Center on the 8th of February 2018.

January 27, 2014

Media: Abrar News on visit to Iran (Farsi)

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February 6, 2014

Plenary speech - Situation in Thailand

Marietje Schaake - Mr President, several non-democratic measures have been taken by the Thai Government and have led to massive protests in a generally peaceful country. The government is putting aside its Senate, as...

December 17, 2009

Plenary speech on Azerbaijan, freedom of expression

Marietje Schaake – Mr President, Azerbaijan is signatory to a number of partnerships with the EU. It is active in the neighbourhood policy as well as in the Eastern Partnership. This does not only relate to trade....

June 12, 2018

Presentation of the annual report on human rights and democracy in the world 2017 and the EU's policy on the matter

Speech in the plenary of the European Parliament on the EU annual report on human rights and democracy in the world 2017 and the EU's policy on the matter.

January 20, 2016

Plenary speech on the humanitarian situation in Yemen

On January 20, Marietje Schaake spoke in the plenary about the humanitarian situation in Yemen. Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group. – Madam President, the people in Yemen are slowly dying of h...

March 9, 2018

Did This American Tech Help Turkey Spy In Syria?

In late 2016, Forbes learned of a mini uprising at the Swedish branch of major U.S. networking vendor Procera Networks. Multiple staff members threatened to quit, or did in fact leave, over a sale in Turkey of tech...

July 7, 2011

Plenary speech on Indonesia, including attacks on minorities

Madam President, Indonesia is a beautiful country with deep traditions of pluralism, cultural harmony, religious freedom and social justice, but regrettably we are seeing an increase in extremist attacks against reli...

July 5, 2012

Plenary speech on forced abortion scandal in China

Marietje Schaake – Mr President, last month, the world was informed through the Internet that Feng Jianmei was abducted and underwent a forced abortion when seven months pregnant. Local authorities did take action, b...

September 22, 2016

Media freedom in Turkey

Marietje Schaake, in collaboration with Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and the Friends of Turkey group, is hosting an event on the state of media freedom in Turkey with Erol Önderoğlu, RSF’s representative in Turkey sin...

July 5, 2017

Any future EU-Turkey relations should be rooted in rule of law conditions

The European Parliament will debate the annual progress report on Turkey today at 15:00 in Strasbourg. The votes will take place tomorrow at 12:30.  MEP Marietje Schaake (D66/ALDE): "The relationship betwe...

October 4, 2017

Attacks on LGBTI community in Azerbaijan

Together with Sophie in 't Veld, Marietje Schaake today submitted the questions below to High Representative Federica Mogherini. --- Reports suggest that over the past two weeks, dozens of people have been arrested, i...

October 21, 2014

Plenary speech on customs duties on goods originating in Ukraine

On 21 October, Marietje Schaake spoke in the plenary meeting about customs duties on goods originating in Ukraine. You may find the text below. Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group. – Madam Pres...

April 4, 2011

Event: Lunch Debate: ICT and Human Rights, Global Network Initiative

Event date:  4 May 2011 Location: BRUSSELS EP Speakers: Susan Morgan, Global Network Initiative Event introduction: Further video's: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

May 12, 2016

Plenary speech on Crimean Tatars

On May 12, Marietje Schaake delivered a speech in which she underlines the need for EU assistance against the violations on minorities of the Crimean Tatars, who face violence, forced disappearances and even killings....

March 14, 2014

Letter to the Commission requesting an EU election observation mission to Turkey

On the initiative of Marietje Schaake, a number of Members of the European Parliament sent a letter to High Representative Ashton and Commissioner Füle to request them to set up an EU election observation mission to moni...

February 6, 2014

MEP: Europe must prioritize human rights and press freedom Egypt

Member of the European Parliament, Marietje Schaake (ALDE/D66), calls on EU High Representative Ashton to put press freedom and human rights at the top of the agenda in addressing Egypt. Today, the European Parliament wi...

March 14, 2012

Resolution on human trafficking in Sinai, in particular the case of Solomon W.

Link to the adopted resolution The European Parliament, –       having regard to its resolution of 16 December 2010 on Eritrean refugees held hostage in the Sinai, –       having regard to the 1948 Universal Dec...

January 12, 2016

Written Question about the Appendix letter to the EU-Turkey deal

On January 12, Marietje Schaake submitted the following priority Parliamentary Written Questions to the European Commission concerning the Appendix letter to the EU-Turkey deal. Author: Marietje Schaake Subjec...

June 1, 2018

The use of IPA funds in Turkey

March 12, 2019

Turkey report

June 6, 2013

EU should listen to demonstrators, and engage not estrange Turkey

Since the demonstrations broke out in Turkey last week, an unprecedented number of articles have been published highlighting the deeper causes of people's grievances. Many analyses suggest that the problems with the rule...

April 30, 2015

Plenary speech on the death penalty in Indonesia

Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Mr President, we strongly condemn this week’s cruel executions by firing squad of eight people in Indonesia, seven of whom were not even Indonesian citizens. Not only h...

January 7, 2016

EP delegation visit to the US

Marietje Schaake, Vice-President of the US Delegation in the European Parliament, brings a three-day visit to the US. The President and two Vice-Presidents of the US Delegation of the European Parliament will focus...

October 21, 2010

Plenary speech on North Caucasus, in particular the case of Oleg Orlov

Marietje Schaake − Mr President, today President Buzek announced the winner of this year’s Sakharov Prize. This prize embodies freedom of thought, an essential European freedom and right we stand for on behalf of our...

February 1, 2012

Plenary speech on Iran and its nuclear programme

Mr President, Iran replied to the most recent EU sanctions with surprise, a surprise not only mentioned by officials but also reflected in the further decline in the value of the currency, as the EU remained united i...

October 22, 2014

Plenary speech on the situation in Kobane and the threat of IS

On 22 October, Marietje Schaake spoke in the plenary debate about the situation in Kobane and the threat of IS. (Please refer to the text below.) Mr President, today we were listening to the plans of Commiss...

June 17, 2015

Written Questions on arms exports to Bahrain

On June 17, Marietje Schaake submitted to Vice-President / High Representative of Foreign Affairs, Federica Mogherini, Parliamentary Written Questions on arms exports to Bahrain. Please find the questions below.Author(s)...

April 14, 2011

E.U. sanctions 32 Iranian officials for human rights abuses

TEHRAN – The European Union on Thursday imposed travel bans and other sanctions against 32 Iranian police commanders, judges and prison wardens who, the bloc says, have committed human rights abuses. The Washington Po...

September 7, 2010

Resolution on the human rights situation in Iran, in particular the cases of Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani and Zahra Bahrami

The European Parliament, –   having regard to its previous resolutions on Iran, notably those concerning human rights, and in particular those of 22 October 2009(1) and 10 February 2010(2), –   having regard to the...

February 9, 2015

MEP Marietje Schaake calls for input on report Human rights and technology

Dutch Member of European Parliament Marietje Schaake (ALDE/D66) calls for input on her draft report on 'Human rights and technology: the impact of intrusion and surveillance systems on human rights in third countries'....

March 9, 2011

Parliamentary Question: Inquiry into role of European companies in violation of human rights

Parliamentary questions9 March 2011 E-002212/2011   Question for written answer to the Commission Rule 117 Marietje Schaake (ALDE)  Subject: Inquiry into role of European companies in violation of human rights...

April 17, 2014

Plenary Speech on the situation in North Korea

http://youtu.be/MgYcZwUqYvw Marietje Schaake - Mr President, where to begin in addressing the systematic human rights abuses in North Korea? We cannot condemn with enough conviction the extermination, murder, enslavem...

October 25, 2016

Improve relations with Iran only when human rights come first

Member of the European Parliament Marietje Schaake (D66/ALDE) only wants the EU to improve its relations with Iran if this goes hand in hand with an improvement of the human rights situation in the country. Today she vot...

November 6, 2012

Media: Digital Freedoms and Human Rights in a Hyper-Connected World - MIND

Read the entire publication below Marietje Schaake, MIND, 06.11.2012 A selection of different developments around technologies and human rights remind us of the vast scope of these emerging crossroads. A video clip...

November 22, 2016

Freezing of EU-Turkey negotiations needs clear benchmarks

Member of the European Parliament Marietje Schaake (ALDE/D66) calls on the Council and the European Commission to freeze accession negotiations with Turkey. Schaake: "Since the despicable coup attempt, we have seen ever...

October 27, 2011

Plenary speech on the situation in Bahrain

Mr President, before a doctor begins to practise, he or she swears to help those in need of medical help, indiscriminately. That is a universally-applied principle. Bahraini doctors, many of whom were educated her...

June 8, 2015

MEP: Turkish election results offer opportunity to improve EU-Turkey relations

The Turkish elections results have shown that Mr Erdogan's AK Party has won 18 seats too few for an absolute majority yesterday. This ends 12 years of single-party rule by the AK Party and means that power will have to b...

July 13, 2015

Media (ECFR) - Digital diplomacy: trade and human rights in China's internet revolution

This article by Marietje Schaake appeared on the website of the European Council on Foreign Affairs (ECFR) on July 13.China has reportedly adopted a wide-ranging national security law, which would increase China's contro...

September 27, 2011

Plenary speech on tensions between Turkey and the Republic of Cyprus

Madam President, as the High Representative and Commissioner Füle are aware, Turkey’s foreign policy is guided by a doctrine called ‘zero problems with neighbours’ but, unfortunately, today Turkey is experiencing pro...

November 28, 2014

Media (EU Observer): Turkey needs its women, Mr Erdogan

This opinion by Marietje Schaake was posted on EU Observer (27 November 2014).Turkey needs its women, Mr Erdogan  Earlier this week, president Erdogan of Turkey spoke at the Women and Justice Summit in Istanbul. Hi...

April 4, 2011

Event: Lunch Debate: ICT and Human Rights, Global Network Initiative

Event date:  4 May 2011 Location: BRUSSELS EP Speakers: Susan Morgan, Global Network Initiative Event introduction: Further video's: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

July 4, 2013

Plenary speech on the situation in Nigeria

Marietje Schaake − Mr President, this House shares the grave concern over the terrorist activities carried out by Boko Haram and related groups which have resulted in no less than 4 000 deaths over the past four year...

September 20, 2013

Event: Beyond the Ballot Box: Advancing Democracy in Turkey

Turkey’s ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) has had an unprecedented string of election victories, launched major reforms, and improved social services, thanks to almost ten years of economic growth. Yet, the par...

March 3, 2011

Parliamentary Question: VP/HR — Immediate suspension of Libya's membership of the UN Human Rights Council

Parliamentary questions3 March 2011 E-002029/2011   Question for written answer to the Commission Rule 117 Marietje Schaake (ALDE)  Subject: VP/HR — Immediate suspension of Libya's membership of the UN Human R...

November 21, 2013

Plenary speech on the situation of migrant workers in Qatar

Marietje Schaake − Mr President, the circumstances of migrant workers in Qatar, and human rights in general, have long been of concern to us, but they are now in the spotlight because of the World Cup planned for 202...

April 28, 2015

The ALDE Group condemns the murder of Pakistani human rights activist Sabeen Mahmud

The killing of Sabeen Mahmud, one of the most outspoken human rights advocates in Pakistan, worsens the situation of those fighting for fundamental rights and freedoms in this country. She was shot four times at...

March 12, 2013

Video: Marietje Schaake on EU enlargement and Turkey

EU enlargement has proven to lead to substantial improvements in the lives of peole, their freedoms, the democratic levels and economic opportunities. In times of crisis, however, populism and nationalism seem attractive...

July 5, 2012

Plenary speech & Resolution on on violence against lesbian women and the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) persons in Africa

(Resolution below the plenary video's) Plenary speech Marietje Schaake – Mr President, we have fought long and hard to address, at last, the extensive violence against LGBT people in Africa. Sadly, even in the Hou...

October 12, 2015

Written Questions on halting the broadcast of tv channels in Turkey

On October 12, Marietje Schaake together with other MEPs from the liberal ALDE Group submitted the following Parliamentary Written Questions to the European Commission concerning halting the broadcast of tv channels in T...

June 24, 2013

EU foreign ministers to decide on Turkey’s membership talks - Euractiv

The Turkish government's handling of protests that have rocked the country for the past three weeks have strained relations with the EU, and a decision to take another step in Ankara’s accession talks, expected t...

May 6, 2015

Baku Games: Run for Human Rights

Baku Games: Run for Human Rights 12 May 2015 13:30-15:00 Room ASP1G3 - European Parliament Azerbaijan is hosting the European Games this year in June. Today's event will raise attention towards Human Righ...

October 16, 2012

Visit: Bucharest October 2012 - ALDE External Group Meeting

October 6, 2010

Plenary speech on World day against the death penalty

Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Madam President, it gives me great pride that the European Union, as a community of values where the death penalty is abolished, is strongly committed to act as a globa...

September 8, 2015

MEP: Use of innovative technologies must strengthen human rights

Member of the European Parliament Marietje Schaake (ALDE/D66), wants the European Union to more actively use technological innovations to advance human rights. Today, the European Parliament voted on Schaake's report in...

May 26, 2016

Letter on the lack of progress in transferring funds to help Syrian refugees

Honourable Vice-President/High-Representative, We are writing to express our utmost concern about the lack of progress in transferring funds intended to help Syrian refugees in countries in the region, primarily in Tu...

February 19, 2016

Letter on the detention of Syrian journalist Rami Jarrah in Turkey

On February 19, Marietje Schaake together with 11 other Members of the European Parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee, sent a letter to Selim Yenel, Head of the Permanent Delegation of Turkey to the EU, and Fed...

March 5, 2014

Turkey Progress Report as voted in Foreign Affairs Committee

The document below is the European Parliament resolution on the 2013 progress report on Turkey as it was voted in the Foreign Affairs (AFET) committee on Monday 3 March 2014. The report will be definitively adopted durin...

October 21, 2010

Plenary speech on Cambodia, in particular the case of Sam Rainsy

Marietje Schaake − Mr President, Sam Rainsy is a colleague of ours, a member of the parliament in Cambodia. That mere fact has led to assassination attempts and a number of political and legal attacks by the ruling p...

January 17, 2011

Plenary speech on the situation in Tunisia

Mr President, I would like to congratulate the Tunisian people for their bravery, courage and persistence in speaking up for opportunities and freedom, and I hope all can refrain from using violence and that there wi...

January 18, 2011

Press release: MEP calls on EU to defend free speech in wake of Tunisian turmoil

Congratulating the Tunisian people on their persistence in speaking up for opportunities and freedom in the face of violent oppression, ALDE MEP Marietje Schaake (D66,Netherlands) called on the EU to step up its fight fo...

June 14, 2018

Putin’s Russia: 158 political prisoners deprived of their human rights as the World Cup kicks off in Moscow

MEPs today adopted in plenary a resolution on Russia, notably the case of Ukrainian political prisoner Oleg Sentsov, arrested in Crimea shortly after Russia took control of the Black Sea peninsula in 2014, asking for his...

June 9, 2011

Plenary speech on Guantánamo, imminent death penalty decision

Mr President, no one will disagree that terrorism needs to be prevented and that suspects need to be tried and held accountable, brought to justice in a fair trial, but in the so-called war on terror, we risk co...

July 24, 2016

Concrete steps in EU-Turkey relations key

A week after the attempted coup in Turkey, and after tens of thousands of arrests, European Ministers and the European Commission must take concrete steps to help restore security and strengthen the rule of law. After th...

April 18, 2013

Plenary speech on freedom of expression in Vietnam

The Parliament debated the restrictions on freedom of expression and digital freedoms in Vietnam. Marietje has been vocal in addressing the policies of the Vietnamese government and initiated a Resolution that was adopte...

July 3, 2012

Press release: Schaake: "Safeguards for human rights in operating EU situation room for Arab League "

Schaake: "Safeguards for human rights in operating EU situation room for Arab LeagueDutch Member of the European Parliament Marietje Schaake (D66/ALDE) has asked EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton for clarification...

August 8, 2016

WQ on the cancellation of the Jean Monnet Scholarship programme in Turkey

Today Marietje Schaake asked the following written questions to the HR/VP Federica Mogherini.On the 5th of August 2016 a cancellation notice was posted for a tender procedure for proposals for the Jean Monnet Scholarship...

June 24, 2013

Media: EU risks upsetting Turkey with threat to call off talks - Reuters

The European Union is on the verge of scrapping a new round of membership talks with Turkey, a move that would further undermine Ankara's already slim hopes of joining the bloc anytime soon and damage its relations with...

January 10, 2012

Media: Marietje on France24 on Al-Assad's speech

The panel discusses what the one-and-a-half hour speech tells us about the strength of the regime of Bashar al al-Assad, besieged as it is by sanctions and under continued pressure from within. Marietje comments from the...

February 2, 2011

Plenary speech on the situation in the Mediterranean, in particular in Tunisia and Egypt

Madam President, right now, as we stand here, citizens in Egypt are being trapped and attacked in Tahrir Square and the army and the police are reportedly attacking instead of protecting. In their peaceful protests E...

October 20, 2010

Resolution on the situation of human rights in the North Caucasus (Russian Federation) and the criminal prosecution against Oleg Orlov

The European Parliament, –   having regard to its resolution of 17 September 2009 on the murder of human rights activists in Russia(1), –   having regard to the award on 16 December 2009 of its Sakharov Prize to Ol...

April 30, 2015

Plenary speech & Resolution on the situation of the Yarmouk refugee camp in Syria

Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Mr President, the people in Yarmouk, Syria, face a particularly horrible situation, as do many other innocent people in Syria. They are attacked by the nihilist jihadis...

January 17, 2018

Plenary speech on the situation in Kenya

September 9, 2010

Plenary speech on Kenya, failure to arrest President Omar al-Bashir of Sudan

Marietje Schaake − Madam President, Kenya, as well as other African countries, is an essential partner of the EU in a number of key areas such as security, development and trade. Africa played a crucial role in th...

December 11, 2012

Press release: The struggle for human rights has moved online

Today the European Parliament in Strasbourg backed a report by ALDE MEP Marietje Schaake (D66,Netherlands) calling for an ambitious strategy to prioritize digital freedom in EU Foreign Policy. The struggle for human righ...

September 13, 2017

Marietje Schaake intervention in EU Turkey debate in the European Parliament

Intervention of MEP Marietje Schaake in the plenary session of the European Parliament in Strassbourg on the 12th of September 2017 on the EU-Turkey relationship.

February 15, 2011

Plenary speech on the situation in Albania

Mr President, I had a very interesting day today when it comes to Albania. I have spoken to the representatives of the two main political parties there. I asked both of them to share ideas on how to move the country...

December 17, 2009

Plenary speech on Uganda, anti-homosexual draft legislation

Marietje Schaake – Mr President, last September, a member of the Ugandan Parliament introduced an ‘anti-homosexuality bill’. This bill would criminalise homosexuality, leading to punishment by imprisonment and even t...

March 11, 2014

MEP: Turkey in deep crisis

Member of the European Parliament, Marietje Schaake (ALDE/D66) emphasises her concerns regarding the state of the rule of law in Turkey. Today the European Parliament debates about a report evaluating the progress of the...

July 5, 2012

Plenary speech & Resolution on Belarus, in particular the case of Andrzej Poczobut

Marietje Schaake – Mr President, even though Mr Poczobut was released from custody, he still faces charges of libel which seem to target him as a result of his journalistic activities and as a member of the Polish mi...

July 9, 2015

Plenary speech on Bahrain, in particular the case of Nabeel Rajab

Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Mr President, Commissioner and colleagues, human rights defender Nabil Rajab is in prison and in fact was arrested right after we, as Members of the European Parliam...

March 10, 2011

Plenary speech on Pakistan, the murder of Shahbaz Bhatti

Mr President, despite the request made by the Pakistani Minister for Religious Minorities, Shahbaz Bhatti, for more protection after numerous threats, an assassin managed to murder him on 2 March. Our sympathies go o...

November 30, 2015

Media (New York Times) - E.U. Offers Turkey 3 Billion Euros to Stem Migrant Flow

On November 29, Marietje Schaake was quoted in the New York Times concerning the deal at the EU-Turkey summit on the refugee crisis. Please find the full article below. E.U. Offers Turkey 3 Billion Euros...

June 21, 2013

Response to reports that Germany seeks to postpone scheduled EU accession talks with Turkey

"In this tense situation it is unwise to slam the door. Instead, it makes sense to engage in direct talks, especially on difficult issues. It is easy to pull the plug, but eventually contact will become more difficult. W...

April 17, 2014

Plenary Speech on Syria and vulnerable communities

http://youtu.be/dmwCvsBBRmc Marietje Schaake - Mr President, it is hard to believe we are ending this parliamentary term, and the discussion on human rights with a resolution on Syria. We need so much more. May the co...

October 24, 2018

The Pressure on Saudi Arabia: What Turkey knows about Khashoggi murder

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April 6, 2015

Media (Bloomberg) - Facebook, Twitter to Appeal as Turkey Blocks Social Media

This article was published on Bloomberg.com on April 6. By Onur Ant, Ali Berat Meric and Constantine Courcoulas.Facebook Inc. and Twitter Inc. said they would appeal a Turkish court’s order to remove images of a slain pr...

January 24, 2017

The EU cannot let Russia, Turkey and Iran dictate Syria's future

Warmongers brokering Syria solution in Astana Today, a most unlikely trio concluded meetings at a conference meant to find a ‘Syrian settlement’ in Astana. The terms are defined by Russia, Iran and Turkey, while the EU,...

December 16, 2010

Plenary speech on Malaysia, the practice of caning

Marietje Schaake – Mr President, the practice of caning – the hitting of a person with a cane – is a form of corporal punishment that is often applied in Malaysia and this is a reason for concern, because tens of tho...

June 14, 2018

Human rights situation in Bahrain, notably the case of Nabeel Rajab

Speech in the European Parliament on the 14th of June 2018 on the human  rights situation in Bahrain, notably the case of Nabeel Rajab See also the written question we asked on the case of Nabeel Rajab here.

April 17, 2013

Press release: EU must use accession process to fight Turkish rights slide

During the votes on the annual Turkey's progress report in the European Parliament, Marietje Schaake MEP (ALDE/D66) flagged the importance of guaranteeing fundamental freedoms and the rule of law. Schaake underlines the...

June 3, 2015

Invitation to security researchers to make suggestions on export controls

Over the past years I have been in discussion with experts, and the broader public through crowdsourcing, to find workable and precise export controls. These are necessary to end the status quo of an unregulated market o...

September 13, 2011

Resolution on the situation in Syria

Link to original adopted resolution. The European Parliament, –   having regard to its previous resolutions on Syria, in particular that of 7 July 2011 on the situation in Syria, Yemen and Bahrain in the context of...

January 15, 2014

Plenary speech on access to public procurement markets

Marietje Schaake (ALDE) - Madam President, although we are not obliged to do so through the WTO GPA agreements, the EU chooses openness to our markets, including public procurement, and that makes sense. Other c...

February 3, 2014

Parliamentary Question: new legislation censors internet in Turkey

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November 4, 2016

EU migration deal with Turkey should not come before principles

Member of the European Parliament Marietje Schaake (ALDE/D66) condemns the series of events that occurred in Turkey early this morning. In addition to speaking out, EU leaders such as HR/VP Mogherini and Commissioner Hah...

December 12, 2012

Press release: Iranian Human Rights activists receive EP Sakharov prize in honour of their fight for freedom

Iranian lawyer and human rights activist Nasrin Sotoudeh and Iranian film-maker Jafar Panahi have been awarded the  Sakharov Prize 2012  during a ceremony in the European Parliament in Strasbourg today.  They were nomina...

February 9, 2015

Plenary speech & Resolution on Internet Governance

On 9 February 2015, Marietje Schaake held a speech at the plenary debate concerning Internet Governance and the renewal of the mandate of the Internet Governance Forum. A resolution on the renewal of the mandate of th...

February 14, 2011

Plenary speech on Uganda, in particular the murder of David Kato

Mr President, today we have an urgent resolution on LGBT rights in Uganda for the third time in this parliamentary term. The previous two were warnings and attempts to prevent what happened to David Kato, the human r...

March 17, 2016

Leadership and Human Rights: Reconciling Power with Principle

On March 22nd, Marietje Schaake will give a talk at McGill University on Human Rights: Reconciling Power with Principle. Schaake will be in conversation with McGill Law Professor and former UN Prosecutor Payam Akhavan.

February 22, 2011

Visit: Sarajevo

February 11, 2010

Plenary speech on Venezuela

Mr President, the Venezuelan government has unjustly tried to limit free expression and pluralism in the media and on the Internet. These desperate attempts to censor information and expression remind me of Mahm...

November 4, 2015

Open Letter on Egypt to the UK Prime Minister

The following is an open letter from the European Working Group on Egypt (EWGE) to David Cameron. Marietje Schaake has endorsed the EWGE. The letter was published by European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) Inter...

May 10, 2011

Parliamentary Question: Call for strong and united EU position at the Special Session of the UN Human Rights Council on the situation in the Syrian Arab Republic

Parliamentary questions10 May 2011 E-004553/2011   Question for written answer to the Commission Rule 117 Marietje Schaake (ALDE)  Subject: Call for strong and united EU position at the Special Session of the...

August 15, 2014

MEP: Reappointment Ayatollah Larijani is a disaster for human rights Iran

Member of European Parliament Marietje Schaake (ALDE/ D66) responds to the reappointment of Ayatollah Larijani as head of Iran's judiciary. "The reappointment of Ayatollah Larijani as head of the judiciary in Iran does n...

February 5, 2014

Media: Zaman on restrictions on digital freedom on Turkey (Turkish)

Zaman, 05.02.2014 AK Parti hükümetinin hızla Meclis’ten geçirerek yasalaştırmaya çalıştığı yeni internet yasa taslağı, Avrupa’da da endişe uyandırdı. AP’nin Hollandalı üyesi Schaake, tasarının Avrupa ilkelerini ihlal et...

December 13, 2012

Plenary speech on the Democratic Republic of Congo

Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Mr President, Commissioner, colleagues, a toxic cocktail of violence over natural resources, rape, the recruiting and employment of child soldiers, and poverty are d...

February 4, 2014

Media: France 24 debate on EU-Turkey relations

On January 29th, Marietje Schaake spoke on France 24's Talking Europe with Turkey's Ambassador to the EU, Selim Yenel, about recent developments in EU-Turkey relations. Schaake and Yenel discussed the recent political sh...

January 20, 2011

Plenary speech on Iran, in particular the case of Nasrin Sotoudeh

Mr President, once again, we are forced to speak about human rights in Iran, after Nasrin Sotoudeh was sentenced to 11 years in jail. She is banned from practising law, but let us serve justice. The Rule of Law is...

November 25, 2010

Plenary speech on Iraq, in particular the death penalty (including the case of Tariq Aziz) and attacks against Christian...

Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Madam President, in Iraq, the death penalty was suspended after the US-led invasion in 2003 but reintroduced in August 2004. Since then, hundreds of people have been se...

October 12, 2010

Parliamentary Question: Human rights abuses — Iran — US sanctions

Parliamentary questions12 October 2010 E-8251/2010 Question for written answer to the Commission Rule 117 Marietje Schaake (ALDE) Subject: Human rights abuses — Iran — US sanctions On 29 September, Presiden...

July 3, 2012

Plenary speech on ACTA

Mr President, we have been joined by millions of Europeans who voiced protests against ACTA and I want to recognise this historic movement and build on it in a constructive way. Now is the time for open, collaborativ...

June 11, 2010

Media: Gap remains between Turkey and EU, EP politician says

Turkey remains on the path to the European Union, yet there are still many vast cultural and political differences remaining between the country and the bloc.By Özgür Ögret, 6.11.2010, Hürriyet Daily News Turkey remai...

October 8, 2013

Plenary Speech on EU-China investment treaty

Mr President, it is the right time to open negotiations on a direct investment treaty between the EU and China to substitute the current 26 existing bilateral treaties between China and EU Member States. EU-C...

April 3, 2014

Plenary speech on net neutrality in the single telecoms market

Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Mr President, tomorrow we will hopefully adopt the telecoms package, which is essential for a single digital market in Europe. Beyond ending roaming charges, which will...

May 31, 2012

Speech 2nd RightsConference in Rio de Janeiro

The Rio de Janeiro Human Rights and Technology Conference, hosted by Access, in partnership with the Center for Technology and Society from Fundação Getulio Vargas' Law School, will examine and explore how the informatio...

September 9, 2015

Plenary speech on the Iran nuclear agreement

On September 9, Marietje Schaake spoke in the plenary debate about the nuclear agreement with Iran, addressing Vice-President / High Representative of Foreign Affairs, Federica Mogherini. Marietje Schaak...

June 9, 2016

Plenary speech on EU economic diplomacy

On June 8, Marietje Schaake delivered a speech on EU economic diplomacy. According to Marietje Schaake there are many opportunities to connect the dots in a changing world, involve technology and IT in a smart way, invol...

March 11, 2015

MEP: anti-terror cooperation with Arab League only when human rights are respected

On 20 January, EU foreign policy chief Mogherini and Arab League Secretary General El-Araby signed a Memorandum of Understanding to further their cooperation. According to Member of the European Parliament Marietje Schaa...

August 7, 2018

The human rights and environmental impact of gold mining in Suriname

Gold is an important export product of Suriname, yet over 90% of gold mining jobs are located in the informal sector. This has led to the illegal cutting down of rainforest, the dangerous use of chemicals such as mercury...

September 28, 2017

Video message on Right to Information

March 10, 2011

Plenary speech on Belarus, in particular the cases of Ales Michalevic and Natalia Radin

Mr President, a large number of opposition figures, including former presidential candidates but also journalists and human rights defenders, were arrested after the events of 19 December 2010 in Minsk and they have...

December 15, 2011

Plenary speech on Azerbaijan, notably the case of Rafiq Tagi

Mr President, Rafiq Tagi was murdered after he exercised his universal human right of free speech. It is important that this is investigated and it is essential that the Azerbaijani authorities do so in an independen...

March 10, 2011

Plenary speech on China: the situation and cultural heritage in Kashgar (Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region)

Mr President, under the banner of reform and development, the ancient Silk Road city of Kashgar is being demolished. It is not only a blow to global cultural heritage, but most of all, the city is very important for...

December 17, 2015

Plenary speech on Ibrahim Halawa potentially facing the death penalty in Egypt

On December 17, Marietje Schaake spoke in the plenary about Ibrahim Halawa potentially facing the death penalty in Egypt. Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Mr President, in Egypt human rights...

November 25, 2010

Plenary speech on Tibet, plans to make Chinese the main language of instruction

Marietje Schaake – Madam President, culture and cultural expressions underpin people’s values and identity. In the words of Aristotle, it is not about outward appearance but about inward significance. Culture, whe...

December 15, 2011

Resolution on Azerbaijan, in particular the case of Rafig Tagi

The European Parliament , –  having regard to its previous resolutions on Azerbaijan, in particular those concerning human rights, –  having regard to the conclusions of the Second Eastern Partnership Summit, held...

September 1, 2011

Parliamentary Question: VP/HR — Inquiry into role of European companies in human rights violations (part II) and the export of dual-use technologies

Parliamentary questions1 September 2011 E-007865/2011   Question for written answer to the Commission Rule 117 Marietje Schaake (ALDE) , Barbara Lochbihler (Verts/ALE) , Baroness Sarah Ludford (ALDE) , Johannes C...

May 22, 2013

Plenary speech on the situation of Syrian refugees in neighbouring countries

Please find my press release calling for an EU action plan for a regional emergency action plan for Syria here. The complete text of the joint motion for a resolution on the situation of Syrian refugees in neighbourin...

June 12, 2012

Plenary speech on the latest developments in the Middle East & Syria

During this week's plenary session in Strasbourg MEPs discussed the latest developments in the Middle East, particularly in Syria. Just before the start of the debate it was announced that Sakharov-prize winner, Egyptian...

March 31, 2015

MEP responds to acquittal 236 suspects in Balyoz/Sledgehammer case

Dutch Member of European Parliament Marietje Schaake (ALDE) responds to the acquittal of 236 suspects in the infamous Balyoz/Sledgehammer case in Turkey. "Although a mass acquittal is troubling the same way a mass con...

July 9, 2015

Plenary speech on Cambodia's draft laws on NGOs and trade unions

Marietje Schaake - Mr President, we are all worried that the vital role that Cambodian civil society plays – and there are around 5 000 NGOs registered – will be stifled by the proposed NGO law, which is restricti...

April 18, 2013

Recommendation to the Council on the Responsibility to Protect

Today the European Parliament adopted a Recommendation to the Council on the concept of Responsibility to Protect (R2P) under international law. For the Liberal group I have contributed to this important report which...

November 17, 2011

Plenary speech on Egypt, the case of Alaa Abdel Fatah

Marietje Schaake – Mr President, Egyptians – old, young, men, and women – have spoken out clearly. They want to determine their own future: opportunities, no corruption. They demand justice and human rights to be res...

February 4, 2016

Plenary speech on Bahrain, the case of Mohammed Ramadan

On Feburay 4, Marietje Schaake spoke in the plenary about the case of Mohammed Ramadan in Bahrain. Marietje Schaake, author - Madam President, this week many of the people here – just like I did – heard...

September 28, 2017

Dutch initiative for human rights investigation Yemen blocked by Saudi Arabia

Today, Marietje Schaake submitted parliamentary questions to High Representative Mogherini in response to Saudi efforts to block a Dutch-Canadian initiative in the UN Human Rights Council to set up an independent inquiry...

February 20, 2019

MEP Schaake welcomes call for suspension of Turkey EU accession negotiations

The Foreign Affairs committee of the European Parliament just voted in favour of suspending the EU accession negotiations with Turkey. The call is part of the annual parliamentary report about Turkey. Member of the Europ...

July 17, 2014

Response Marietje Schaake (ALDE/D66) to adoption resolution on freedom of expression in Egypt

Today, on the initiative of Member of the European Parliament Marietje Schaake (ALDE/D66), the European Parliament adopted a resolution about the restriction of freedom of expression in Egypt. Schaake responds: "I am...

September 6, 2012

Recap: Marietje's speech at the National Democratic Convention in Charlotte

National Democratic Institute, 06.09.2012 “How can we foster democracy in a hyper-connected world?” asked Dutch Member of the European Parliament Marietje Schaake. During a TED-style talk she focused on the implicatio...

September 13, 2010

Resolution on the situation in Syria

The European Parliament, –   having regard to its previous resolutions on Syria, in particular that of 7 July 2011 on the situation in Syria, Yemen and Bahrain in the context of the situation in the Arab world and Nor...

February 20, 2018

Letter to HR/VP on anti-hijab protests in Iran

Please find below a letter to High Representative Mogherini sent by Marietje Schaake and supported by 44 colleagues, in which they urge the High Representative to publicly speak out and to call on Iranian officials to im...

February 15, 2012

Resolution on the situation in Syria

The European Parliament, –   having regard to its previous resolutions on Syria, –   having regard to the Foreign Affairs Council’s conclusions on Syria of 10 October,  14 November and 1 December 2011 and 23 Januar...

October 5, 2016

Plenary speech on Syria

June 18, 2013

Egypt: Response to European Court of Auditors report on EU support to Egypt

Today the European Court of Auditors issued the following report and press release on its findings on EU financial support to Egypt. The Court concludes that the appropriate and effective spending of 1 billions EUR be...

September 1, 2014

Written question to the High Representative on the case of Maryam al-Khawaja in Bahrain

On 1 September, Marietje Schaake submitted written questions to High Representative Catherine Ashton concerning the case of the arrest of Maryam al-Khawaja in  Bahrain. Please find a plain text version and the official d...

March 9, 2017

Speech on transatlantic relations at AmCham

On 8 March 2017, Marietje Schaake spoke at an AmCham event on the occasion of the launch of the 2017 transatlantic economy report.Thank you Susan, Ladies and Gentlemen, I appreciate the invitation to share some thoughts...

October 23, 2015

Letter to President Juncker and High Representative Mogherini concerning the EU-Turkey Joint Action Plan

On October 23, Marietje Schaake (ALDE) together with Ernest Maragall i Mira (Greens/EFA) and Kati Piri (S&D) sent a letter to European Commission President Juncker and Vice-President / High Representative of Foreign...

December 15, 2011

Plenary speech on Tunisia, the case of Zakaria Bouguira

Mr President, yesterday we awarded the Sakharov Prize to leading human rights defenders from North Africa and the Middle East, and one of the awardees was Mohamed Bouazizi, whose self-immolation sparked the uprisings...

October 23, 2014

MEP: Grave concerns about Russia's crackdown on civil society and ngo's (Speech & Resolution)

The European Parliament voted today on a resolution urging Russia to stop the crackdown on civil society and non-governmental organizations. It also condemns the way in which the Russian Ministry of Justice interferes wi...

March 27, 2012

Media: EU Sanctions Human Rights Abusers and Bans Export of Surveillance Tech

By Arseh Sevom, View from Iran, 27.03.2012 China is not the only country providing surveillance technology to Iran, the EU is home to a number of companies that have provided surveillance and monitoring capabilities i...

May 25, 2013

Visit: Cairo May 2013 - visit with Commissioner Kroes

October 15, 2011

Visit: Istanbul October 2011

July 9, 2011

Visit: Berlin July 2011

June 30, 2011

Visit: Berlin June 2011

April 4, 2011

Visit: Lagos April 2011

April 18, 2012

Resolution on the situation in Burma/Myanmar

Link to adopted resolution The European Parliament, –   having regard to Articles 18 to 21 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) of 1948, –   having regard to Article 25 of the International Covena...

July 5, 2012

Press release - Schaake: UN affirms human rights online, “practice what you preach”

Strasbourg, 5 July 2012MEP: UN affirms human rights online, “practice what you preach” Digital freedoms Dutch Member of the European Parliament Marietje Schaake (D66/ALDE) welcomes today’s adoption of a resolution...

October 27, 2011

Plenary speech on Syria, in particular the case of Rafah Nached

Mr President, Rafah Nached gives a face to the people behind the numbers, reflecting the cost of the unspeakable violence and injustice in Syria. We are all eyewitnesses to what is happening. On the Internet we ca...

May 4, 2012

Letter to Commissioner Malmström about Algerian democracy and rights activist Mr Mourad Dhina

[embed]/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/LetterToMalmstrom-MrDhina-2012.05.04.pdf[/embed]

December 15, 2011

Resolution on the situation in Syria

Link to adopted resolution The European Parliament , –  having regard to its previous resolutions on Syria, in particular those of 27 October 2011(1) on the situation in Egypt and Syria, in particular of Christian...

April 15, 2016

Open letter from the European Working Group on Egypt to European leaders and policymakers

On 15 April 2016, Marietje Schaake co-signed the following open letter from the European Working Group on Egypt to European leaders and policymakers: To European leaders and policymakers: We believe it is time...

October 19, 2015

Media (New York Times) - Merkel Links Turkey’s E.U. Hopes to Stemming Flow of Refugees

On October 19, Marietje Schaake was quoted in the New York Times on the rule of law and restrictions of people’s rights and freedoms in Turkey, in the context of the refugee crisis. Article by TIM ARANGO. Ceylan Yeginsu...

April 5, 2011

Former Gov. Corzine travels to Nigeria to help oversee elections

TRENTON — Former Gov. Jon Corzine is in Nigeria this week with a delegation that will oversee the country's parliamentary elections.NJ.com, Ginger Gibson, Statehouse bureau, 05.04.11 Corzine, who returned to work in t...

March 21, 2013

Media: Involve Turkey in US free trade: EU official - Hurriyet Daily News

A Dutch Member of European Parliament has asked the European trade commissioner to consider the impact of the Transatlantic Free Trade Agreement to be signed between the U.S. and the EU on the Turkish economy and busines...

December 11, 2011

Visit: Paris December 2011

May 17, 2017

Two gay men sentenced to 80 lashes in Indonesia

On the international day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, an Indonesian Court sentenced 2 men to receive 80 lashes each for being in a gay relationship. Members of the European Parliament Marietje Schaake an...

November 21, 2012

Visit: Transatlantic Legislators Dialogue

Marietje Schaake will visit Washington D.C. as part of an inter-parliamentary delegation to the Transatlantic Legislators' Dialogue (TLD). The TLD aims at enhancing the dialogue between European and American federal Legi...

January 22, 2013

Media: International free speech roundup - Index on censorship

Daisy Williams, Index on Censorship, 18.01.2013 On 17 January, the European Parliament endorsed a resolution addressing ongoing human rights violations in Bahrain. The resolution, led by Dutch European Parliament memb...

June 16, 2010

Resolution on executions in Libya

The European Parliament, –   having regard to its previous resolutions on the abolition of the death penalty and its previous resolutions on annual reports on human rights in the world, notably that of 2008, and the n...

May 4, 2015

Resolution on the Persecution of the Christians around the world, in relation to the killing of students in Kenya by terror group Al-Shabaab

This Resolution was adopted by the European Parliament on 30 April 2015.European Parliament resolution of 30 April 2015 on the persecution of Christians around the world, in relation to the killing of students in Kenya b...

November 16, 2011

Plenary speech on the open internet and net neutrality in Europe

Mr President, the internet was created with no specific use in mind other than the efficient transfer of information. Over the last 20 years the internet and technology have developed at an extremely rapid pace, givi...

July 7, 2010

Plenary speech on Kosovo and Albania

Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Mr President, the Liberal Group of this Parliament believes that the Western Balkans are a part of Europe, but this is not always an easy message to relay to voters tod...

March 9, 2011

Resolution on Pakistan, in particular the murder of Shahbaz Bhatti

The European Parliament, –   having regard to its previous resolutions on human rights and democracy in Pakistan, in particular that of 20 January 2011 as well as those of 20 May 2010 and of 12 July, 25 October and 15...

May 5, 2017

European Parliament to oversee emergency support to Syria

Member of the European Parliament Marietje Schaake (D66/ALDE) has been appointed to the board of the 'Madad Fund', on behalf of the European Parliament. This European Commission Trust Fund concentrates the financial supp...

February 12, 2015

Plenary speech & Resolution on Saudi Arabia and the case of Raif Badawi

Today, Marietje Schaake spoke in the plenary debate, after which a resolution concerning the case of Raif Badawi in Saudi Arabia was adopted. Earlier, on January 21, MEPs called for urgent action in this case by sendi...

April 29, 2015

Conference on Internet Governance & Cyber-security

Conference on Internet Governance & Cyber-security 'Human Rights, Freedom of Expression and the Internet' May 14-15 Columbia University We have reached an important juncture for many Internet policy issues...

December 15, 2010

Resolution on Eritrean refugees held hostage by human traffickers in Sinai

The European Parliament, –   having regard to the UNHCR Statement of 7 December 2010 on Eritrean hostages in Sinai, in Egypt, –   having regard to the EU-Egypt Association Agreement(1) signed in Luxembourg on 25 Ju...

October 23, 2013

Plenary Speech on the EU Common Foreign and Security Policy

August 28, 2014

Written Question to the High Representative on the case of Héla Boujneh in Tunisia

On 28 August, Marietje Schaake submitted a written question to High Representative Catherine Ashton concerning the case of the arrest of Héla Boujneh in Tunisia. Please find a plain text version and the official document...

May 11, 2011

Resolution on the situation in Sri Lanka

The European Parliament, –   having regard to the report of 31 March 2011 of the UN Secretary-General’s Panel of Experts on Accountability in Sri Lanka, –   having regard to the UN Secretary-General’s statement of...

September 14, 2011

Resolution on the situation in Libya

Link to original adopted resolution The European Parliament, –   having regard to United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolutions 1970/2011 of 26 February 2011 and 1973/2011 of 17 March 2011, –   having regar...

September 14, 2010

Resolution on the situation in Libya

The European Parliament, –   having regard to United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolutions 1970/2011 of 26 February 2011 and 1973/2011 of 17 March 2011, –   having regard to the suspension on 22 February 2011...

June 13, 2013

Plenary speech on the situation of Rohingya Muslims

Marietje Schaake, author − Mr President, the violence, torture, rape, uprooting and destruction of property of Rohingya Muslims in Burma must end. Human Rights Watch speaks of ethnic cleansing and crimes against...

September 30, 2014

Written Question to the High Representative on the case of Raif Badawi in Saudi Arabia

On September 26, Member of the European Parliament Marietje Schaake (D66/ALDE) submitted questions to High Representative Ashton on the case of Raif Badawi in Saudi Arabia. Please find a plain text version and the offici...

June 10, 2015

MEP: No European politicians to European Games in Baku until political prisoners are released

Member of the European Parliament Marietje Schaake (D66/ALDE) calls on European leaders not to attend official ceremonies during the European Games in Azerbaijan, until political prisoners are released. Today the Europea...

April 17, 2014

Letter to High Representative Ashton concerning Egypt

Strasbourg 17, April 2014 Honourable Lady Ashton, Recent developments towards greater authoritarianism in Egypt are cause for great concern. Egypt has the potential to be an economic and political leader in a fr...

October 5, 2015

Plenary speech on export controls in respect of dual-use items after the Hacking Team revelations

On October 5th, Marietje Schaake spoke in the plenary debate about export controls in respect of dual-use items after the Hacking Team revelations. Schaake posed an Oral Question on this topic which led to the plenary...

March 14, 2012

Debate on the situation in Nigeria

Mr President, last year I was an election observer in Nigeria. The hope and anticipation among Nigerians was remarkable. They welcomed observers; anything that could ensure their vote would count and be counted trans...

April 25, 2012

Event: EIF Breakfast Debate - Foreign Policy and Human Rights Aspects of ICT - 25 April 2012

Date:25 April 2010 Locations: Private Salon, European Parliament in Brussels Speakers: Andrea Glorioso, European Commission DG INFSO Margaret Wachenfeld, Institute for Human Rights and Business Daniel Calingae...

January 30, 2017

Letter to HR/VP Mogherini on the case of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe in Iran

Last Friday, Marietje Schaake sent a letter to High-Representative Federica Mogherini on the case of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, imprisoned in Iran. The letter below was co-signed by Molly Scott Cato, Frederique Ries, Jud...

March 22, 2012

Parliamentary Questions: Price-tagging of artefacts in Turkey

Parliamentary questions22 March 2012 E-003115/2012 Question for written answer to the Commission Rule 117 Marietje Schaake (ALDE) Subject: Price-tagging of artefacts in Turkey Turkey has reportedly(1) taken...

January 17, 2018

Plenary speech on update of the dual-use regulation

Please find here the speech of Marietje Schaake in the European Parliament on 17 January 2018:  Further information: January 2018: The final report on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament...

January 30, 2015

Letter to High Representative Mogherini on the cases of Ahmed Maher, Mohamed Adel and Ahmed Douma in Egypt

On 30 January, Marietje Schaake together with other Members of the European Parliament, wrote a letter to High Representative/Vice-President Federica Mogherini to call for action on the cases of Ahmed Maher, Mohamed Adel...

January 8, 2016

VP Timmermans must address key concerns in Ankara, not only EU's interest to curb the flows of refugees

When European Commissioner and First Vice-President of the Commission Frans Timmermans concluded his hastily negotiated deal with Turkey, the ALDE group was very critical. Opening negotiating chapters and paying 3 billio...

June 8, 2011

Resolution on the situation in Madagascar

The European Parliament, –   having regard to Articles 8 and 9 of the Cotonou Agreement, concerning political dialogue and respect for human rights respectively, –   having regard to its previous resolutions on Mad...

January 26, 2016

Badawi placed in an isolated prison cell: the ALDE Group calls on Saudi Arabia to immediately release him

Saudi blogger, Raif Badawi, Sakharov Prize Laureate in 2015, has been moved to an isolated cell on the second day after he started a new hunger strike. Earlier in December 2015, a few days ahead of the Sakharov...

February 20, 2013

Statement on misinformation in Bahraini press

Monday (18 February 2013) I met with a delegation of Members of the Bahraini Parliament, as well as with the Ambassador of Bahrain. The people in the meeting were: - Mr. Abdulrahman Rashid Bumjeed, MP - Mr. Ahmed E...

September 1, 2014

Written Question to the High Representative on the case of Mohamed Tareq in Egypt

On 1 September, Marietje Schaake submitted written questions to High Representative Catherine Ashton concerning the case of the arrest of Mohamed Tareq in Egypt. Please find a plain text version and the official document...

March 13, 2014

Plenary speech - Russia: sentencing of demonstrators involved in the Bolotnaya Square events

Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Mr President, in the light of the tensions in Ukraine and aggression by Russia, whether in Crimea or in Syria, it is easy to forget that Russia is, in fact, a member of...

June 2, 2011

Visit: New York June 2011

May 19, 2017

Plenary speech and intervention on the situation in Syria

Please find the final resolution on Syria here.

August 29, 2013

Marietje Schaake nominates 'Standing Man' Turkey for EU Sakharov-prize

Dutch Member of European Parliament Marietje Schaake (D66/ALDE) has nominated the 'Standing Man' in Turkey for the European Parliament's annual human rights prize. Schaake: "The peaceful protest movement in reaction to t...

December 16, 2010

Plenary speech on Uganda, the Bahati Bill and discrimination against the LGBT population

Marietje Schaake – Mr President, the so-called Anti-Homosexuality Bill before the Ugandan Parliament provides for the punishment of homosexual acts by imprisonment for terms ranging from seven years to life, or even...

May 4, 2011

Parliamentary Question: Call for targeted EU sanctions to end violence in Syria

Parliamentary questions4 May 2011 E-004407/2011   Question for written answer to the Commission Rule 117 Marietje Schaake (ALDE)  Subject: Call for targeted EU sanctions to end violence in Syria Given that...

April 3, 2012

Visit: London April 2012

October 6, 2011

Visit: London October 2011

June 18, 2011

Visit: Geneva June 2011

June 29, 2011

Visit: Budapest June 2011

February 28, 2011

Visit: Copenhagen February 2011

October 26, 2015

Plenary speech on Trade in certain goods which could be used for capital punishment, torture or other treatment or punishment

On October 26, during the European Parliament’s plenary meeting, Marietje Schaake presented her report on ‘Trade in certain goods which could be used for capital punishment, torture or other treatment or punishment'....

June 9, 2014

Letter to Catherine Ashton on Egypt and trial of journalists

Brussels, 9 June 2014 Honourable Lady Ashton, Recent developments in Egypt are cause for great concern. In a climate of fear and intimidation, elections were held. Many questions about those remain, as critical...

April 17, 2014

Written Question regarding fraud in Turkey with EU funds

Please see below a written question tabled by Marietje Schaake and Andrew Duff to the Commission regarding fraud in Turkey with EU funds. [embed]/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/WQ_fraud_in_Turkey_with_EU_funds.pdf[/e...

October 6, 2012

Media: Free to choose - Economist

Governments and internet firms are wrestling with the rules for free speech online.The Economist, 06-10-2012 THE arrest of a senior executive rarely brings helpful headlines. But when Brazilian authorities briefly detai...

December 6, 2016

Pressure to combat hate speech rises across Europe

By Hortense Goulard and Joanna PlucinskaThe European Commission on Tuesday will try to shame social media companies into taking more aggressive efforts to combat hate speech.Twitter, Facebook and YouTube were among the m...

March 9, 2011

Plenary speech on the EU approach towards Iran

Mr President, is Ahmadinejad better than Gaddafi? While the international community is rightly focused on Libya and seeks ways to end the violence Gaddafi and his collaborators inflict on citizens, let us not allow I...

April 14, 2012

Visit: Tunisia April 2012

November 24, 2011

Visit: Vienna November 2011

November 10, 2011

Visit: Ankara November 2011

November 8, 2011

Visit: Warsaw November 2011

July 22, 2011

Visit: Cairo July 2011

September 16, 2011

Visit: Yalta September 2011

June 13, 2013

Plenary speech on Azerbaijan, the case of Ilgar Mammadov

Marietje Schaake, author − Mr President, Azerbaijan has committed itself to respect for human rights, fundamental freedoms and the rule of law in the context of the Eastern Partnership, and its membership of the Coun...

March 30, 2017

Elif Shafak and Marietje Schaake on the Rise of Populism in Europe

As EU leaders are tested by the rise of populism, how can citizens and civil society organizations respond to these adverse trends?Carnegie Europe was delighted to host a discussion featuring Mari...

May 16, 2012

Letter to HR/VP Ashton on military trials in Egypt

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July 11, 2011

Visit: New York July 2011

May 8, 2012

Letter to HR/VP Ashton about the situation in Bahrain

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April 29, 2015

Conference on Internet Governance & Cyber-security

Conference on Internet Governance & Cyber-security 'Human Rights, Freedom of Expression and the Internet' May 14-15 Columbia University We have reached an important juncture for many Internet policy issues...

February 14, 2012

Plenary speech on radio spectrum policy

Madam President, at times when many people are sceptical about Europe and wonder what it can concretely deliver to them, businesses, cultural and economic development, it is nice to be able to bring some good news....

December 14, 2011

Resolution on the situation of women in Afghanistan and Pakistan

Link to adopted resolution The European Parliament, –   having regard to its previous resolutions on human rights and democracy in Pakistan, in particular that of 20 January 2011 and those of 20 May 2010 and 12 Jul...

February 29, 2016

MEP reacts to the parliamentary elections in Iran

Member of the European Parliament Marietje Schaake (ALDE/D66) responds to the results of the parliamentary elections in Iran. The elections were an important test for the government of President Rouhani, with whom the pe...

April 26, 2011

Parliamentary Question: Call for targeted EU sanctions to end violence in Syria

Question for written answer E-004407/2011 to the Commission, 26.04.11 Rule 117 Marietje Schaake (ALDE) Given that the disproportionate violence used by the Syrian Government against peaceful protestors ha...

March 24, 2014

Video: Roundtable on a European Perspective on Iran

On March 24th Marietje Schaake spoke in a roundtable hosted by the Atlantic Council of the US in Washington D.C. about her recent visit to Iran and discussed the latest developments in EU-Iran relations. Below you wil...

March 12, 2015

Plenary speech & Resolution on relations between the EU and the League of Arab States

On March 11, Marietje Schaake spoke in the plenary meeting about the relations between the EU and the League of Arab States and cooperation in countering terrorism. According to Schaake, working together to fight terrori...

February 8, 2018

Questions to HR/VP Mogherini on situation in Kenya

On 8 February, Marietje Schaake submitted the following parliamentary questions to HR/VP Mogherini. Kenyan media: Nation TV, KTN News and Citizen were taken off air for six days after the interior minister accused...

October 29, 2014

Written Questions on the export of Finspy technology to Bahrain

On 29 October, Marietje Schaake submitted Written Questions to the European Commission about the export of Finspy technology to Bahrain. Author: Marietje Schaake Subject: Export of Finspy technology to Bahrain...

April 25, 2017

EU lawmakers vote to make YouTube fight online hate speech

BRUSSELS - Video-sharing platforms such as Google's YouTube and Vimeo will have to take measures to protect citizens from content containing hate speech and incitement to violence under measures v...

January 22, 2014

Media: EU Sparks Fly Over Turkey’s Civil Rights as Entry Bid Languishes - Bloomberg

James G. Neuger, Bloomberg, 22.01.2014 Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan faced calls to ease curbs on free speech and let judges operate independently in order to breathe fresh life into the country’s lang...

May 19, 2015

Plenary speech on self-certification of importers of minerals and metals originating in conflict-affected and high-risk areas

Marietje Schaake (ALDE) – Mr President, it is essential that trade policies are a key element in broader EU foreign policy goals, such as conflict resolution, human rights and development. That is why we need ef...

July 6, 2011

Resolution on Indonesia

The European Parliament, –   having regard to its resolution of 16 December 2010 on the Annual Report on Human Rights in the World 2009 and the European Union’s policy on the matter(1), –   having regard to Indones...

April 7, 2017

Plenary speech on wholesale roaming agreement

December 10, 2013

Plenary speech on the 2013 progress report on Albania

Marietje Schaake, on behalf of the ALDE Group – Madam President, Albania has been taking important steps towards meeting the EU criteria but, while we acknowledge that, this Parliament clearly defines the many areas...

March 10, 2011

Parliamentary Question: US Administration decision to lift the suspension on 'military commission' trials at Guantanamo Bay

Parliamentary questions10 March 2011 O-000056/2011   Question for oral answer to the Commission Rule 115 Sophia in 't Veld, Baroness Sarah Ludford, Renate Weber, Sonia Alfano, Marietje Schaake, Gianni Vattimo, Nat...

December 1, 2011

Parliamentary Question: VP/HR — Renewed Syrian membership of Unesco human rights committee

Parliamentary questions 1 December 2011 E-011291/2011 Question for written answer to the Commission Rule 117 Marietje Schaake (ALDE) Subject: VP/HR — Renewed Syrian membership of Unesco human rights committee...

October 26, 2012

Media: European Union Awards Rights Prize to Jailed Iranians - New York Times

The European Union awarded its most prestigious human rights award on Friday to two imprisoned Iranians, the lawyer Nasrin Sotoudeh and the filmmaker Jafar Panahi.New York Time, Thomas Erdbrink, 26.10.2012 The Europea...

March 12, 2012

Resolution on the situation in Nigeria

Link to adopted resolution The European Parliament, –   having regard to the statements by Vice-President/High Representative Ashton of 26 December 2011 on the Christmas Day bombings and of 22 January 2012 on the b...

May 4, 2015

Resolution on the situation in Nigeria

This Resolution was adopted by the European Parliament on 30 April 2015.European Parliament resolution of 30 April 2015 on the situation in Nigeria (2015/2520(RSP)) The European Parliament, –    having regard to its...

April 26, 2017

Yameen Rasheed stabbed to death in the Maldives

Following the fatal stabbing of Yameen Rasheed, a government critic and blogger, Marietje Schaake submitted the questions below to High-Representative Federderica Mogherini. On the 23rd of April, Yameen Rasheed was sta...

February 5, 2016

Global Commission on Internet Governance

From February 18-19, Marietje Schaake will attend the (private) meeting of the Global Commission on Internet Governance in California. The Global Commission on Internet Governance was established in Janu...

December 7, 2018

A Magnitsky Act for Europe would punish human rights abusers and despots

Sometimes a name means everything. In this case the name Sergei Magnitsky has been globally synonymous with how to fight human rights abuse in the 21st century. His sacrifice resonated with victims of human rights a...

June 11, 2014

Letter to Štefan Füle concerning censorship in Serbia

Brussels, 11 June 2014 Dear Commissioner Füle, dear Štefan, On 27 May, the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Dunja Mijatović expressed concerns over online censorship by the Serbian government in the aft...

April 23, 2015

ALDE asks for EU Envoy LGBTI rights

Dutch Members of the European Parliament Sophie in 't Veld and Marietje Schaake (ALDE/D66) ask the European Commission to react to the Vatican's non-response to the appointment of an openly gay French ambassador. The Vat...

December 10, 2013

Plenary speech on Common rules and procedures for external action

Marietje Schaake (ALDE) - Madam President, how often have we heard Ministers, the High Representative and others speak about how more for more would frame a more values-based EU policy towards neighbouring countries?...

December 18, 2014

MEP: Business as usual towards Turkey is no longer an option for the EU

Last weekend the Turkish authorities detained several journalists in raids on media outlets. Turkey already imprisons more journalists than any other country. Member of the European Parliament Marietje Schaake (ALDE/D66)...

October 20, 2010

Plenary speech on the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA)

Marietje Schaake (ALDE) – Mr President, yesterday, the Commission adopted a strategy to mainstream the legally binding EU Charter of Fundamental Rights. As liberals, we proposed this, so this is music to my ears....

November 6, 2014

Written Questions on the case of Ghoncheh Ghavami in Iran

Today, Marietje Schaake will submit to the High Representative of Foreign Affairs, Mogherini, written questions on the case of Ghoncheh Ghavami in Iran. Author: Marietje Schaake Subject: The case of Ghonch...

November 14, 2013

Priority questions to Council on review of restrictive measures against Iranian individuals

April 6, 2011

Resolution on the ban of the elections for the Tibetan government in exile in Nepal

The European Parliament, –   having regard to its resolution of 17 June 2010 on Nepal and its resolution of 26 October 2006 on Tibet, –   having regard to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948, –   h...

December 14, 2010

Resolution on the situation in Côte d’Ivoire

The European Parliament, –   having regard to its previous resolutions on Côte d'Ivoire, –   having regard to the provisions of the Electoral Code of Côte d’Ivoire, particularly Law 2001-303 and Ordinance 2008-133,...

January 21, 2013

Event: Poor Record, Positive Solutions: Advancing Press Freedom in Turkey

On January 23rd Marietje Schaake will speak in a panel discussing Carnegie Europe visiting scholar Ambassador Marc Pierini’s paper "Press Freedom in Turkey". Together with Pierini and Ahmet İnsel, managing editor of İlet...

December 14, 2015

Speech in the presence of Ensaf Haidar, the wife of Raif Badawi

On December 14, Marietje Schaake spoke in the Foreign Affairs committee to Ensaf Haidar, the wife of Raif Badawi. The liberal blogger has been sentenced to 1,000 lashes, 10 years of imprisonment, and a high fine. The...

November 25, 2010

Plenary speech on Burma, conduct of elections and the release of opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi

Marietje Schaake – Madam President, on 13 November, less than a week after the disputed national elections had been held, Aung San Suu Kyi was released from house arrest after spending 15 of the last 21 years effecti...

April 17, 2018

Freedom of speech concerns related to Tanzania´s new online content regulation

The new “electronic and postal communications (online content) regulation” in Tanzania  introduces an annual licensing fee of approximately 930 dollars for those wanting to have an online blog in Tanzania wheras the...

November 9, 2011

Parliamentary Question: Role of EU-based ICT companies in human right violations (particularly in Syria)

Parliamentary questions9 November 2011 O-000294/2011   Question for oral answer to the Commission Rule 115 Marietje Schaake, Niccolò Rinaldi, Baroness Sarah Ludford, Marielle De Sarnez, Kristiina Ojuland, Giommari...

April 17, 2014

Comments Marietje Schaake on situation in Syria

Today, the European Parliament votes on a human rights resolution concerning Syria and the enduring Syrian crisis. More than four months ago, 2001 Sakharov Prize winner Razan Zaitouneh was kidnapped with her family and s...

July 3, 2012

Plenary speech on EU-Israel agreement on conformity assessment and acceptance of industrial products

Mr President, today we are discussing the oral question that seeks to clarify in a binding way appropriate measures to ensure that the EU will not import medicines or other pharmaceutical products from the Occupied T...

April 5, 2011

Resolution on the situation in Syria, Bahrain and Yemen

The European Parliament, –   having regard to its previous resolutions on Syria and Yemen, –   having regard to its report on European Union relations with the Gulf Cooperation Council of 24 March 2011(1), –   h...

February 15, 2012

Resolution on the death penalty in Japan

Link to adopted resolution The European Parliament, –   having regard to United Nations General Assembly Resolution 63/168 which calls for the implementation of United Nations General Assembly Resolution 62/149 of...

January 19, 2016

Plenary speech on the Digital Single Market report

On January 19, the European Parliament adopted its report on the Digital Single Market. Earlier this day Marietje Schaake adressed the plenary. Please read Schaake's response to the report and watch her speech in the...

January 19, 2011

Plenary speech on the situation of Christians in the context of freedom of religion

Mr President, religious conviction is an individual matter with a different meaning to different people. The role of the state is to protect all citizens, regardless of their conviction, and to allow them to freely a...

June 17, 2013

Media: France 24 debate on the situation in Syria

In the France 24 talkshow Talking Euope, Christophe Robeet discusse the situation in Syria with Marietje Schaake and British conservative MEP Sajjad Karim. "I'm afraid that despite the horrific violence, death, destru...