Amnesty International (AI) officials have stated that they are "very hopeful" that Sweden will prioritise human rights during its presidency of the EU, which begins in July. At a press conference in Brussels, AI launched their report: "Recommendations for the Swedish Presidency of the EU". In particular, the organisation hopes that Sweden will push for a stronger EU anti-discrimination directive, reverse the harsh anti-immigration policy trends seen in recent years, and condemn European states' collaboration with the US practice of "extraordinary rendition".

"Sweden made a considerable impact on the EU's broader human rights agenda during its last presidency in 2001," said Lise Bergh, secretary-general of Amnesty International Sweden.

"Member states have assisted or turned a blind eye to CIA rendition flights over their territories, shared information that has led to people being forcefully captured and tortured, failed to protect EU citizens or residents from torture and allowed the CIA to operate secret prisons in Europe," said Nicolas Beger, Director of Amnesty International's EU Office.

"The EU's leadership on the prevention of torture in its external relations has been compromised by the failure of EU member states to demonstrate outright commitment to the ban on torture in their counter terrorism measures" he added. "EU member states including Sweden, Austria, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and the UK have used so-called diplomatic assurances, a practice that is in flagrant contradiction of EU efforts to fight torture."

On the issue of human rights protection for immigrants to the EU, the AI report states: "People residing or entering the territory of member states should not be treated as criminals and EU member states should never use criminal sanctions against irregular migrants for the sole reason of their irregular entry or residence."

"The decision of the Italian government in May to return individuals rescued at sea to Libya without entering into a proper assessment of their potential protection needs has set a dangerous precedent."

Read the report in full here: http://www.amnesty-eu.org/static/documents/2009/Memorandum_for_the_Swedish_Presidency.pdf

Source:

• http://www.amnesty-eu.org/static/html/pressrelease.asp?cfid=7&id=415&cat=4

• UN launches "Seal the Deal" climate change campaign
• Concern over Sudan's withdrawal from Cotonou Agreement amendments
• Developed countries marginalise UN over global financial crisis
• EU affairs: Barroso reappointment uncertain; Ireland given guarantees ahead of Lisbon referendum