On 12 July 2026, the European Parliament adopted three resolutions condemning human rights violations in Sudan, Nigeria, and Pakistan, with MEPs calling for urgent EU action including sanctions, humanitarian aid, and accountability for perpetrators.
The resolution on Sudan, passed by 476 votes in favour, 28 against, and 96 abstentions, condemns war crimes and crimes against humanity committed during the siege of El-Obeid by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). MEPs urge the EU to step up humanitarian aid, provide direct funding to local organisations, and establish humanitarian corridors. They call for sanctions on those responsible for attacks on civilians and external facilitators, such as the Global Security Services Group, for violating the UN arms embargo. The Parliament also demands that the EU add the RSF to its list of terrorist organisations and support an independent investigation into alleged war crimes, with the International Criminal Court extending its jurisdiction to all of Sudan.
The resolution on Nigeria, adopted by 510 votes in favour and 1 against, with 86 abstentions, strongly condemns the attack in Kawel village and the persecution of Christians. MEPs call on Nigerian authorities to strengthen counter-terrorism measures against Boko Haram, ensure independent investigations, and implement sustainable land management policies to address underlying conflict factors. They also urge the EU Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief to pay attention to the deteriorating situation of Christians and other persecuted religious communities.
The resolution on Pakistan, adopted by show of hands, highlights the case of 13-year-old Christian girl Maria Shahbaz, who was abducted, forcibly converted to Islam, and married to her abductor in March 2026. MEPs call for her access to legal representation, family, and psychological support, and urge Pakistan's authorities to fully implement the national framework to end child marriage, create a complaint mechanism for families of abducted or forcibly converted girls, and ensure transparent investigations. They note that according to UN figures, 75% of women and girls affected by forced conversion through marriage are Hindu and 25% Christian.
The resolutions reflect the Parliament's stance on human rights, with potential impacts on EU foreign policy, including sanctions and aid allocation. The EU is urged to impose targeted sanctions on individuals and entities in Sudan, and to increase humanitarian funding. The resolutions also call for diplomatic pressure on Nigeria and Pakistan to improve protection of religious minorities and address child marriage. The Parliament's actions may influence the European Commission and the Council to adopt corresponding measures, though no immediate legislative steps were announced.