Every Monday, the Research Trainees of the CERESE assess the news of the previous week. You can read their opinions below:

I like…

…the decision of the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola to condemn the Iranian authorities for the arrest and imprisonment of the lawyer Saleh Nikbakht. The President of the European Parliament condemned Iran for the imprisonment of Saleh Nikbakht, following his trip to Strasbourg, where he received the Zakharov Prize on behalf of the young deceased Mahsa Amini, the highest award in the field of human rights. The President demanded his “immediate and unconditional release”. Notably, the young Iranian member of the Kurdish minority died at the age of 22 on September 16 2022, three days after she was arrested by morality police for allegedly violating the strict dress code imposed on women in the Islamic Republic. This development is particularly positive in order for the international community, including the European Union, to put pressure on the Iranian authorities to improve the human rights issue in the country.

…the news that new European Union rules for monitoring fishing activities came into effect, bringing digitalization to fishing operations. The regulations apply to both EU vessels and those navigating in EU waters, requiring gradual implementation of geolocation and electronic reporting for all fishing vessels. Full digital traceability becomes mandatory combating illegal fishing and the rules extend to imported products. Commissioner Virginijus Sinkevičius states that after five years of negotiations, the new system enhances marine resource protection and ensures better enforcement of fisheries control, covering the entire process known as ‘from the net to the plate’. These new rules are also a step closer to bringing sustainability to fisheries as well.

I dislike…

…that on January 15, Nauru broke off diplomatic contacts with Taiwan while restoring diplomatic relations with China. The small Pacific island had previously reversed its stance in 2005. The Taiwanese government claims the decision was manipulated by Beijing following the latter’s failure to decisively influence the outcome of the recent elections. Beijing accuses Taiwan’s ruling party of seeking the island’s autonomy rather than the ‘One China Policy’. Taiwan, wishing to preserve its democratic acquis, is seeking closer contacts with the Western world while avoiding a war with China or a Hong Kong-like fate.

…the tension between Iran and Pakistan regarding the missile launches between them on 16 and 18 January. Both states justify these strikes as terrorist extermination attempts in the region. These attacks have led to civilian deaths on both sides. This situation has created fears of a general escalation of conflict, as the strikes were not authorized between the two governments, while Iran carried out similar actions towards Iraq and Syria in January, looking forward to consolidating its foothold in the region.