The factors favouring support for terrorism and the recruitment of terrorists

The European Parliament rejected by 241 votes for, 332 against and 87 abstentions a report on factors favouring the support for terrorism and recruitment of terrorists. The own-initiative report was drafted by Gérard DEPREZ (EPP-ED, BE). A lack of consensus among the main political groups regarding the best instruments to fight radicalisation led to MEPs rejecting the report as a whole.

The amendments initially adopted before the rejection of the entire report in plenary called on EU Member States to consider amending the definition of terrorist offences and applicable penalties so as to include "the glorification of terrorism" in its scope, "with full respect for freedom of expression". It also mentioned the need to promote dialogue with religious leaders and minorities, on the basis of the UN concept of the alliance of civilizations.

MEPs had also stated in several paragraphs, before the entire report was rejected, that preventive measures must be based upon avoiding social isolation and promoting increased dialogue - with different civilisations, religions, and minorities.

It should be noted that Jaime MAYOR OREJA (EPP-ED, ES), the original rapporteur, had withdrawn his name from the report after its adoption by the Civil Liberties Committee.