MR’s Sophie Wilmès (Renew). Credit: Belga/Benoit Doppagne
Human rights, democracy and the rule of law are at the heart of the powers that were delegated to Belgian Vice-President of the European Parliament Sophie Wilmès (Renew), President Roberta Metsola announced during the September plenary session in Strasbourg.
Metsola announced the powers delegated to the different vice-presidents for their two-and-a-half-year mandate. For Belgium’s Wilmès, there was a strong emphasis on human rights, democracy and the rule of law.
“Defending our fundamental values is a priority for me. With the democratic model clearly under threat around the world and under attack from all sides in Europe by those who indulge in authoritarian adventures, we democrats must show ourselves combative,” she said. “We are talking about the great inviolable principles that are part of our identity as Europeans. That is non-negotiable.“
In practice, Wilmès’ powers will take form in her work within the Democracy Support and Elections Coordination Group, which focuses on election observation and supporting parliaments to strengthen democracy and the rule of law in third countries, especially candidate countries.
She will also develop mediation initiatives to promote a culture of dialogue and support proponents of democratic change and human rights defenders. Additionally, she will represent the European Parliament at the United Nations, where it remains important to raise these issues.
Hans Thoolen on Human Rights Defenders and their awards 
September 26, 2024 at 11:58
In België heeft ze haar politieke carrière wel met een positieve balans afgesloten. Toch had ik liever gezien dat ze zich, als MEP, gaat inzetten voor Fundamental rights and values, niet alleen voor values. Zij komt uit het conservatief – liberale kamp; die zetten zich meestal meer in voor het verdedigen van economische belangen dan van basic rights en sociale rechtvaardigheid
On Thu, Sep 26, 2024 at 10:14 AM Hans Thoolen on Human Rights Defenders and
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