Brussels, 19/04/2013 (Agence Europe) - On 18 April, the European Parliament called on Kazakhstan to respect its commitments on the freedom of expression, assembly and association. In a joint resolution, MEPs “strongly” criticise the legal decision banning opposition parties and independent media. Repeating their concerns about the detentions of opposition leaders, journalists and lawyers on the basis of trials that do not respect international standards, MEPs reiterated their call for the release of “all persons convicted on the basis of vague criminal charges which could be considered to be politically motivated”. They also call for the review and easing of restrictions imposed on religious practices, and for respect of the right of workers to form independent labour unions.
Freedom of expression in Vietnam and Guantanamo. In a second resolution adopted, MEPs underline their “deep concern” about the conviction and harsh sentencing of journalists and bloggers in Vietnam. They call on the Vietnamese government to amend or repeal legislation that restricts the right to freedom of expression and freedom of the press, including on line. The Parliament also calls on Vietnam to cease forced evictions and religious persecution.
MEPs also discussed the human rights situation in Guantanamo and their concern about prisoners on hunger strike, but the vote was postponed due to the funerals of the victims of the Boston bomb attack the same day. (CG/transl.fl)