The arbitrary detention of EU citizens Javier Marañón Montero and David Rodríguez Ballesta in Equatorial Guinea
MEPs condemn the serious human rights violations in Equatorial Guinea, including torture and inhumane prison conditions, the persecution of political opposition, and restrictions on freedom of expression. The Equatoguinean judiciary lacks accountability and independence from Teodoro Obiang’s regime, they say.
Parliament denounces the arbitrary detention of Spanish citizens Javier Marañón Montero and David Rodríguez Ballesta, and their unacceptable detention conditions. MEPs call on the authorities to take immediate and unconditional measures, including respecting the right to a fair trial, lifting pretrial detention, and ensuring access to legal advice and medical care —particularly for Mr Marañón Montero, because of hunger strike.
The Commission and the European External Action Service (EEAS) must step up diplomatic efforts regarding their cases in coordination with the Spanish authorities, MEPs add. They recall that human rights violations and arbitrary arrests negatively affect the EU’s relations with the country, damage the international reputation of Equatorial Guinea, and curb investments and cooperation. Parliament also urges Equatorial Guinea to sign the Samoa Agreement.
The resolution was adopted by show of hands. For more details, the full version will be available here. (09.10.25)
Humanitarian and security situation in Haiti, in particular the rising power of criminal gangs and the recent massacre in Cabaret
Parliament strongly condemns the recent massacre in Labodrie, Cabaret, ongoing gang violence, and systematic sexual violence in Haiti. MEPs call on international support to rebuild judicial capacity in the country to ensure perpetrators are held accountable, and to provide assistance to survivors.
MEPs call on Haitian stakeholders to agree to a transitional governance roadmap, to prevent the financing of armed groups and weapons trafficking. They urge the EU and its member states to increase humanitarian assistance for the country and to provide stronger support for security, development, and a political transition. UN’s humanitarian aid remains critically underfunded, MEPs recall, whereas USAID cuts have suspended vital humanitarian services. MEPs also call on the EU to ensure that the newly approved Gang Suppression Force (GSF) is adequately supported and equipped, and enhanced backing of Haitian security forces must be provided.
The EU and member states must continue the imposition of targeted sanctions against gang leaders and sponsors, and the international community must strengthen border control and enforce arms embargoes, MEPs add.
The resolution was adopted by 550 votes in favour, 3 votes against, with 54 abstentions. For more details, the full version will be available here. (09.10.25)
The 10th anniversary of the detention of jailed Swedish publisher Gui Minhai in China
Parliament calls for the immediate and unconditional release of Chinese-born Swedish publisher Gui Minhai. MEPs note with deep concern the forthcoming 10th anniversary of his abduction and detention and reiterate their strongest condemnation.
The case of Gui Minhai is representative of a pattern of violations of fundamental freedoms by Chinese authorities, MEPs say, including against human rights defenders, journalists, artists and ethnic and religious minorities.
Respect for human rights, freedom of expression and press freedom must be at the core of EU-China relations, MEPs add. They call on the EEAS, the Commission and the Member States to continue raising Gui Minhai’s case at all levels of EU-China relations and ensure the protection of EU citizens abroad.
The resolution was adopted by 546 votes in favour, 3 votes against, with 44 abstentions. For more details, the full version will be available here. (09.10.25)
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