Stoning as a consequence of Sharia law

20.9.2010

Question for written answer E-7751/2010
to the Commission
Rule 117
Andreas Mölzer (NI)

In many Islamic countries, stoning is regarded as a just punishment for adultery. Every year across the world dozens of people are stoned, often without a prior court procedure. This archaic method of execution is used not only by the Taliban in Afghanistan or the Islamist Al-Shabaab militia, but it is said to be carried out according to the law in about 10 countries. As fundamentalism has grown, it is estimated that the number of stonings has increased in the last 20 years. For example, Sharia law and stoning have been introduced in 12 districts of Nigeria, although here international protests have helped, such as in the case of Hajara Ibrahim.

In countries where the legal system is based on Islamic Sharia law, stoning is the penalty to be used to punish adultery. Stoning is primarily a way of executing women, as the evidence of a woman before a court counts only half that of a man, and rape is considered as a ‘confession’ of adultery. Pressure is often put on organisations in the field which try to change attitudes.

1. In view of the increasing radicalisation of Islam, what is the Commission’s view of calls from Muslim immigrants for introduction of Sharia law in European countries?

2. Is there coordinated action at EU level against stoning?

3. What is the EU doing to halt the advance of radical Islam in the Member States?

4. To what extent does the EU support non-governmental organisations that are trying to change attitudes in this area?

5. How does the application of Sharia law and executions by stoning affect relations between the countries concerned and the EU?

OJ C 243 E, 20/08/2011