Spyware Pegasus has to end, says the EU commission of inquiry
The European Parliament's special committee on Pegasus ends its 14-month investigation by concluding that Poland and Hungary used Israeli spyware to illegally monitor journalist, politicians and activists. Furthermore, he has entrusted a recommendation to the European Union: to strengthen the regulation of the sector. MEPs overwhelmingly approved a non-binding report and recommendation on the use of Pegasus and other spyware in the European Union, calling for an effective ban on the technology unless certain conditions are met by the end of the year.
As regards third countries and the EU's foreign policy instruments, MEPs call for: an in-depth investigation into spyware export licences; stricter enforcement of European export control rules; a joint EU-US spyware strategy; talks with the Zionist regime and other third countries to establish rules on the marketing and export of spyware; ensuring that EU development aid does not support the acquisition and use of spyware.
As mentioned, these are non-binding documents. But it wouldn't be the first time that the battles of the European Parliament have had important effects on the Member States (that is, on the European Council) and on the European Commission. Just think of the trade agreement negotiated by the European Commission together with France and Germany but blocked by the European Parliament. In this case, the Eurochamber appears determined to prevent the Member States from hiding behind the fact that national security is precisely a national issue, failing to fulfill their human rights commitments.
But also to ask the European Commission to do its part with international allies and partners. Starting with the United States, with which the harmony could be strong given that less than two months ago President Joe Biden issued an executive order prohibiting government agencies from using commercial spyware that is considered a threat to national security or is implicated in human rights violations.
