Rédaction Africa Links 24 with La rédaction
Published on 2024-04-09 13:16:24
In a report published today by Al Jazeera, in collaboration with the porCausa Foundation, disturbing revelations have been made about the use of European Union funds in Senegal. The Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice, and Home Affairs (LIBE) of the European Parliament has officially requested the European Commission to launch a thorough investigation into these allegations of mismanagement.
The investigation, conducted jointly by Al Jazeera and the porCausa Foundation, has highlighted controversial practices involving a unit fighting cross-border crime funded by the EU, apparently used to suppress pro-democracy protests in Senegal. According to the information revealed, the Rapid Surveillance and Intervention Action Group (GAR-SI), funded by the EU Emergency Trust Fund for Africa (EUTF), was diverted from its initial purpose to serve the repressive interests of the Senegalese government.
Juan Fernando Lopez Aguilar, President of the LIBE Committee, sent a scathing letter to Ylva Johansson, European Commissioner for Home Affairs, and Jutta Urpilainen, Commissioner for International Partnerships, demanding a thorough investigation into these troubling allegations. Amnesty International has also called for an independent investigation into the inappropriate use of riot control equipment provided by Spain to Senegal, urging the Spanish government to revoke licenses for any misused equipment.
The consequences of these revelations are serious. Pro-democracy protesters have reportedly been suppressed, with tragic consequences. Amnesty International reports that more than 60 people have lost their lives during these protests, with no prosecutions initiated to date.
The report also indicates a concerning correlation between the repression of protests and a significant increase in migrations to Spain, highlighting the direct repercussions on the most vulnerable populations.
The response from Senegalese, Spanish, and European authorities is eagerly awaited. Al Jazeera and porCausa have requested comments from the European Commission, FIIAPP, as well as the Spanish and Senegalese ministries of the Interior and Foreign Affairs, but have not received a response so far.
As the legislative period in Brussels comes to an end this week and the European Parliament elections are scheduled for June, it is crucial that immediate action be taken to investigate these allegations and ensure transparency and accountability in the use of EU funds.
Read the original article(French) on Senegal Direct
