Allegations of double standards in how the EU applies international law to Ukraine versus the Gaza Strip are increasingly undermining Europe’s credibility among nations in the Global South, according to former EU ambassador to the Palestinian territories, Sven Kühn von Burgsdorff. In an interview with Euronews, he expressed concern that the EU’s standing has diminished, making it challenging to build crucial trade partnerships with these countries. Many nations from the Global South see the EU’s inconsistent application of humanitarian principles, particularly regarding conflicts like those in Palestine and Ukraine, as disingenuous. This skepticism complicates the EU’s ambitions for establishing stronger economic ties centered on trade, resources, and energy security.
Kühn von Burgsdorff, who served as the EU’s envoy to the Palestinian territories until July 2023, emphasized a stark contrast in the EU’s rapid response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and its sluggish reaction to violence in Palestine. He noted that the only vocal supporters of Europe’s efforts to counter Russia from the Global South are the Bahamas and Micronesia, indicating that many other nations believe that the EU’s commitment to human rights and international law lacks sincerity. To restore its reputation, the EU must take concrete action concerning the escalating situation in Gaza, where ongoing military actions and humanitarian crises have aggravated local suffering.
Following the Hamas attacks on Israeli communities on October 7, 2023, which resulted in over 1,200 deaths and the abduction of 251 individuals, Israel’s military response intensified, leading to staggering reports of civilian casualties in Gaza. The humanitarian situation has deteriorated severely, with intermittent blockages exacerbating conditions and causing widespread starvation. Kühn von Burgsdorff condemned the resulting violence as “a horrifying spectacle” where principles of international humanitarian law, such as distinguishing between military and civilian targets, were grossly violated. He cited the overwhelming human toll as evidence of a complete disregard for established rules regarding the conduct of warfare.
Criticism of the EU’s inaction extends to the proposed humanitarian agreements intended to address the dire circumstances in Gaza. High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas announced a substantial increase in aid, yet the opposite occurred, leading to increased casualties among civilians trying to access aid supplies. The situation has been compounded by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, which has faced backlash for its distribution methods. Reports of tragic incidents, including the deaths of individuals seeking food, have raised alarm among NGOs and UN agencies, suggesting urgent action is required to avert a potential genocide in the region.
In light of these challenges, 58 former EU ambassadors proposed concrete actions for the EU to take against Israel, suggesting measures such as suspending trade agreements, ending cooperative efforts in research and culture, and halting arms sales. They argue for a consensus among member states on suspending preferential trade arrangements with Israel, although reaching such an agreement remains unlikely. Nevertheless, they suggest that a qualified majority can act to halt trade with illegal settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories and sanction violent settlers. These actions align with calls for accountability in response to systematic violations of international law.
Moreover, the proposals extend to holding accountable Israeli officials who incite violence against Palestinians. The former ambassadors aim to target those advocating for harmful policies that exacerbate the conflict. Suggestions also include suspending EU-funded programs benefiting Israel, such as Horizon Europe, a significant research initiative. However, ongoing discussions among EU diplomats regarding suspending Israel’s partial access to this fund have failed to achieve consensus, reflecting the complex dynamics and varied priorities within the bloc. Kühn von Burgsdorff has characterized these proposals as necessary but noted that they represent only a fraction of what is required to address the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza adequately. This ongoing indecision illustrates the broader tension the EU faces in navigating its diplomatic stance in volatile international conflicts.
