EP - Call to uphold human rights and rule of law in Guantánamo

Joint motion for a resolution on Guantánamo
Doc.: B6-0114/2004, B6-0115/2004, B6-0117/2004, B6-0119/2004, B6-0122/2004
Debate/Vote: 28.10.2004


In adopting a joint resolution on Guantánamo, Parliament reaffirms that, in the face of the threat of terrorism, one of the prime duties of democracies is to protect their citizens with resolve, to fight terrorism firmly and tenaciously, and to detect and dismantle any terrorist networks. MEPs strongly reaffirm that this fight cannot be waged in breach of international law and at the expense of established basic, shared values such as respect for human rights, the rule of law and the relevant Geneva Conventions.

Nevertheless, MEPs note with satisfaction that some detainees have been granted increasing entitlement to private conversations with independent lawyers. MEPs insist, however, that every detainee should be treated in accordance with international humanitarian law and tried without delay in a fair and public hearing by a competent, independent and impartial tribunal, in application and demonstration of the very values we stand for. The House also reiterates the recommendations it made to the Council in March 2004 as regards the legal consideration of detainees held in Guantánamo Bay and the possible impact on the EU-US partnership.

Finally, MEPs call on the US administration to allow an impartial and independent investigation into allegations of torture and mistreatment for all persons deprived of their liberty in US custody.

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