UN representatives propose a revamp of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Lebanon (UNPLA)
In a significant development, a survey conducted by the European Leadership Network (ELNET) has revealed the stance of European parliamentarians on various issues related to Israel, antisemitism, and international organizations. The Israel Survey 2024, the largest study analysing parliamentary perspectives on relations with Israel, was participated in by members of parliament from the parliaments of 29 European nations, including 185 from Germany.
The survey results indicate a strong desire for reform and increased control of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). According to the findings, more than 90% of participating European members of parliament demand reforms of UNRWA, with Germany showing the highest determination (96%). A parliamentary debate on the future of UNRWA should be initiated, as its mandate currently runs until 2026, with an extension expected in 2025.
The survey also highlighted the concern about the rising antisemitism in Europe. Across Europe, 71% of parliamentarians cite antisemitism from the right and radical Muslim circles as the greatest threat to Jewish life. This sentiment is echoed by 71% of German deputies. Antisemitism from the left is also perceived as a growing threat, with an increase of 16% in the number of parliamentarians expressing this concern.
In response to this, a large majority (97% in Germany and 84% across Europe) expect their governments to strengthen the fight against antisemitism. A strong willingness to intensify cooperation across Europe (72 percent) was also noted.
The Abraham Accords, signed between Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan, are recognised by a majority of parliamentarians as having potential to bring peace and stability to the Middle East. The Accords are seen as a peace instrument by 80 percent of German members of parliament, and across Europe, 85 percent of parliamentarians agree with this potential.
The survey also highlighted the interest of European parliamentarians in cooperation with Israel, particularly in the sectors of New Technologies, Science, and Education. However, the specific European countries with the greatest support for strengthening cooperation with Israel, as well as the sectors identified for reinforcement, are not explicitly listed in the available search results.
The study was conducted annually for the sixth time in Germany and had Bar-Ilan University (Israel) as its academic partner. Additional contributions were made by the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (Greece and Cyprus), the Royal Elcano Institute (Spain), the Ireland Israel Alliance, the Organization Med Israel for Peace (Norway), the Foreign Policy Institute (Turkey), and the New Strategy Center (Romania).
A large majority (73 percent) of participating members of parliament view relations with Israel as good or very good. The Israel Survey 2024 studies are available for download as both Europe and Germany editions.
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