A cross-party amendment to a joint resolution on Afghanistan, published on 20 May 2026, sharply criticises the EU's decision to invite Taliban representatives to Brussels, calling instead for increased pressure to restore human rights. The amendment, co-sponsored by the S&D and Renew groups, targets a resolution originally drafted by the PPE, S&D, ECR, Renew, and Verts/ALE groups, and introduces a direct rebuke of the EU's diplomatic engagement.
The single amendment (Amendment 5) inserts a clause expressing regret over the invitation and demands that the EU prioritise pressure over dialogue. This marks a clear divergence between the centre-left and liberal groups, who want explicit condemnation, and the centre-right and ECR groups, who supported the original text without such language. The Verts/ALE group, also a co-signatory, is not listed as a co-sponsor, suggesting a more nuanced position.
non-recognition of the Taliban, support for ICC arrest warrants, and the need to pressure the Taliban on human rights. The key point of disagreement is tactical: whether to publicly rebuke the EU's own diplomatic move or maintain a more reserved stance.
The amendment transforms the resolution from a general policy statement into a specific parliamentary rebuke of the Commission and Member States. It underscores a tension between diplomatic engagement and human rights advocacy, with the amendment arguing that the invitation undermines the EU's stated policy of non-normalisation based on the Council's five benchmarks.
- EU institutions: The European Parliament signals strong disapproval of the Commission's and Member States' diplomatic approach, potentially straining inter-institutional relations. - Afghan women and girls: The amendment reinforces the Parliament's commitment to prioritising human rights, but critics may argue that outright rejection of dialogue could limit leverage. - EU foreign policy actors: The Commission and EEAS face increased parliamentary scrutiny over their engagement strategy, which may lead to more cautious future outreach. - Taliban: The amendment reinforces the EU's non-recognition stance, but the lack of engagement could reduce opportunities for influence on human rights issues.
The resolution is expected to be put to a plenary vote in the coming weeks. The Council and Commission will likely take note of the Parliament's position, though the amendment does not have binding force. The divergence among political groups may resurface during debates on EU-Afghanistan policy. The amendment's adoption would represent a significant parliamentary pushback against the EU's current diplomatic course.
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