MEPs debate on The killing of Palestinian journalist Shireen Abu Akleh and the violent incidents at her funeral. Opening statement by Olivér VÁRHELYI, European Commissioner for Neighbourhood, on behalf of Josep BORRELL FONTELLES, HR/VP of the European Commission

Brussels

debate

plenary session

EU - Palestine (T)

freedom of press and media (T)

VÁRHELYI, Olivér (HU, EC)

The killing of Palestinian journalist Shireen Abu Akleh and the violent incidents at her funeral: opening statement by Olivér VÁRHELYI, European Commissioner for Neighbourhood

SOUNDBITE (English), Oliv&eacute;r V&Aacute;RHELYI, European Commissioner for Neighbourhood, Dear President, dear members, on behalf of the High Representative and Vice President Borrell. Let me make the following statement. Last week, we received the shocking news of the killing of journalist Shirin Abu Ali, who was killed by a gunshot when she was reporting on an Israeli military operation taking place in Jenin in the occupied Palestinian territory on the 11th of May.

SOUNDBITE (English), Olivér VÁRHELYI, European Commissioner for Neighbourhood, The External Action Service spokesperson issued a statement on the same day strongly condemning her killing and sending condolences to her family, friends and colleagues. Another journalist, Ali Al Samoud, was wounded. The EU has called for a thorough and independent investigation clarifying the circumstances that led to her death.

SOUNDBITE (English), Olivér VÁRHELYI, European Commissioner for Neighbourhood, It is essential that this investigation clarifies all the circumstances of these incidents and as soon as possible and that those responsible are brought to justice. It is unacceptable to target journalists why they perform their jobs. Journalists covering conflict situations must be ensured safety and protection at all times.

SOUNDBITE (English), Olivér VÁRHELYI, European Commissioner for Neighbourhood, The European Union stands in solidarity with journalists and will continue to support their fundamental work, in particular while covering conflicts. Just days after the World Press Freedom Day, the European Union recalls the crucial role played by journalists, media workers and free and independent media.

SOUNDBITE (English), Olivér VÁRHELYI, European Commissioner for Neighbourhood, Honourable Members, on Friday last week, the 13th of May, during the funeral procession of Sherine Abu Alek, we witnessed scenes that showed disproportionate use of force and disrespectful behaviour against participants of the mourning procession. The air will be gave a statement on the same day, noting that the European Union is appalled by the events that took place during the funeral procession.

SOUNDBITE (English), Olivér VÁRHELYI, European Commissioner for Neighbourhood, The EU condemned this disproportionate use of force and the disrespectful behaviour. The EU reiterates its call for a thorough and independent investigation that clarifies all the circumstances of the death of Shirin Abu Ali and brings those responsible for killing her to justice. Thank you very much.