We must reinforce the EU’s potential to prevent conflicts and promote peace around the world
Date
12 Mar 2019
Sections
Security
Today, the European Parliament adopted a report drafted by the S&D MEP Soraya Post calling for the reinforcement of the institutional and financial capacities of the EU on conflict prevention and mediation as well as for an increased role of the Parliament in this sector. It calls, among other things, for the appointment of an EU Special Envoy for Peace and proposes to set up a pool of senior political mediators and conflict prevention experts.
In addition, the report calls on the EU to take a lead role in the implementation of the UN Security Council resolutions on women, peace and security, to make sure women are included in all conflict prevention and mediation activities.
S&D MEP and the EP rapporteur on the file Soraya Post said:
“The devastating consequences of ongoing conflicts, as illustrated in Syria, Libya, Yemen and Ukraine, remind us that the EU being a peace project at its core, must remain committed to its role as a global actor for peace. Although the EU has become increasingly involved in preventing conflicts and promoting sustainable peace beyond its borders, its potential is not fully used.
“Therefore, my report calls for an EU high level advisory board on conflict prevention and mediation under the Vice President/High Representative. This advisory board would set up a pool of senior political mediators and conflict prevention experts. We also need an EU Special Envoy for Peace. There is indeed a need for clear mandate on how to build and promote peace at all levels in world.
“If we want the EU to actively work for peace, women must be on board in these efforts. Only in inclusive representation of women, young people and minority groups we will be able to design accurate responses, formulate better policies and reach sustainable and equitable peace agreements. Unfortunately, the conservative groups, including the EPP, once again showed their true face, by opposing some of my amendments to further increase the role of women in peace processes by establishing a European women’s mediators network and a proper gender budget.”