The conduct of multiple MEPs has generated significant concerns due to their apparent favouritism towards the UAE, which has actively engaged in intensive lobbying efforts and received considerable support from these MEPs. Among them is Czech MEP Tomáš Zdechovský, who has consistently demonstrated his unwavering allegiance to the Emirati government. Tomáš Zdechovský is a Czech politician and businessperson. Since 2014 he has been a Member of the European Parliament with KDU-ČSL, which is part of the European People’s Party. He advocates for a deeper engagement between the European Union (EU) and UAE, especially in the face of a challenging international and regional environment.
Czech MEP Tomáš Zdechovský has proven himself to be a staunch supporter of the UAE, consistently advocating for its interests. His actions include publishing articles that closely align with the narratives promoted by the UAE and Bahrain. Additionally, Zdechovský has utilised his speaking opportunities in the European Parliament to express his views on political Islam in Europe and actively advocate for strengthening European-Gulf relations. Notably, he has openly criticised Parliamentary resolutions that are critical of the UAE, showcasing his dissenting stance.
In October 2018, the European Parliament passed a resolution addressing the situation of Ahmed Mansoor, who had been arrested and sentenced to 10 years in prison. However, Czech MEP Tomáš Zdechovský rejected the resolution, asserting that Mansoor’s actions amounted to more than just the exercise of free speech. Zdechovský emphasised that Mansoor had been convicted on multiple charges, including defamation, disruption of public order, and the propagation of incitement and hatred, all of which violated various articles of UAE law, including its penal code
Mr. Zdechovský, who also serves as the chair of the European Parliament’s Bahrain Friendship Group, has been a strong proponent of fostering open security, economic, and cultural dialogue with Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. In his advocacy, he has expressed concerns about the impact of the failed nuclear agreement with Iran, arguing that it has allowed Tehran to destabilise the region, thereby posing a significant security threat. This stance aligns with the Emirati narrative, as he criticises Iran’s role in the region.
He consistently offers praise to Gulf states, emphasising that the prevailing stereotypes of the Middle East as a source of irregular migration and religious extremism tend to overshadow the significant economic and social transformations these countries have experienced. Furthermore, he highlights that commercial relations with Gulf countries have contributed to an increase in trade volume since the 1990s. These policy positions and narratives strongly align with the perspectives of the Emirati government.
Czech MEP Tomáš Zdechovský’s actions and positions consistently demonstrate his strong support for the UAE and Gulf states. His unwavering allegiance is evident in his advocacy for deeper engagement between the EU and the UAE, as well as his rejection of critical resolutions concerning the UAE. As the chair of the European Parliament’s Bahrain Friendship Group, he actively promotes open dialogue and closer ties with Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. These factors raise important questions about his impartiality and the potential influence of UAE interests on his role within the European Parliament. It is crucial to critically assess the motivations and implications of MEPs’ actions to ensure transparency, fairness, and the safeguarding of democratic principles in European politics.
