Selen Valente
29 April 2026•Update: 29 April 2026
Right-wing and far-right groups on Tuesday criticized EU institutions over freedom of expression and migration policies during a European Parliament (EP) debate over a report on fundamental rights.
Opening debate on the state of fundamental rights in the EU for 2024 and 2025, Greens Rapporteur Anna Strolenberg stressed that fundamental rights “cannot be subject to bargaining.”
Decrying rising discrimination and hate speech across Europe, she warned: “In a society where people are excluded because of who they love or how they worship, it eventually becomes a place that is safe for no one.”
Pointing to a resurgence of antisemitism, Strolenberg added: “Alongside this old prejudice, a new one, Islamophobia, is increasingly becoming mainstream. The reason I mention both together is that people often think that fighting one means neglecting the other.
“But if you think you have to choose, you are missing the point; combating racism means ensuring everyone feels safe and truly is safe.”
Calling on the European Commission and member states, she said fundamental rights cannot be defended selectively and urged all parties to uphold their obligations.
Michael McGrath, European commissioner for democracy, justice, the rule of law and consumer protection, said protecting fundamental rights is a shared responsibility in the EU.
Describing these rights as “not abstract concepts but the essence of the European project,” McGrath said they are under pressure in multiple areas, from discrimination to digital threats, adding that the commission is using all available tools to safeguard and enforce them.
Gaza criticism dominates debate
The session also saw sharp criticism from left-wing groups, who argued that the report failed to adequately address Gaza and Palestine.
Speaking for The Left group, MEPs said the draft lacked clear expressions of solidarity with Palestinians and that assessments of Israel fell short.
They highlighted human rights violations, particularly in Gaza, and stressed that the EU must take responsibility on these issues.
Right-wing groups, meanwhile, argued that the report shows solidarity with migrants but fails to sufficiently consider EU citizens.
Some MEPs also criticized the growing Muslim population in Europe and the rights granted to these communities.
Other speakers warned of a broader decline in fundamental rights and freedoms across Europe, citing restrictions on media freedom, the weakening of civil society, and the erosion of judicial independence in some member states.
