MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the condemnation of targeted killing and respect for the principles of the rule of law
26.5.2011
Andreas Mölzer
B7‑0345/2011
Motion for a European Parliament resolution on the condemnation of targeted killing and respect for the principles of the rule of law
The European Parliament,
– having regard to the joint statement of 2 May 2011 by European Commission President Barroso and European Council President Van Rompuy on the death of Osama Bin Laden,
– having regard to Rule 120 of its Rules of Procedure,
A. whereas the Islamist terrorist Osama Bin Laden was killed by US army special forces in what was possibly a targeted operation which did not comply with international law,
B. whereas a targeted killing has been welcomed not only by Heads of State and Government, but also by the Presidents of the European Commission and European Council,
C. whereas the European Union, which has taken it upon itself to act as an advocate of human rights and of democracy and the rule of law on the world stage, is disregarding its own principles and standards by releasing such statements. This concerns in particular the fundamental principle of criminal law that no sentence can be passed without a trial,
1. Notes that a policy of containment of Islamism and terrorism is a response which can be welcomed and supported, but points out that this policy cannot be used to override the rule of law;
2. Points out that targeted killings do not comply with the principles of justice and international law;
3. Points out that confidence in the principles of the rule of law espoused by the European Union is shaken by statements welcoming such operations and the worldwide image of the EU may be damaged as a result;
4. Calls on the Presidents of the European Commission and the European Council to condemn the practice of targeted killing without delay.