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EU experts address judicial aspects of fighting terror in Riga meeting

Xinhua, January 31, 2015 Adjust font size:

EU justice ministers on Friday discussed the judicial aspects of counter-terrorism efforts in view of the recent deadly attacks in Paris, Latvian Justice Minister Dzintars Rasnacs told journalists after a meeting here.

The minister noted that the terrorist attacks in Paris had altered the original agenda of the Latvian Presidency of the Council of the EU.

"The presidency strongly condemns incitement to hatred, radicalism and terrorism," Rasnacs said, urging further efforts to enhance cooperation in the fight against terrorism.

"I am confident that the judiciary has a role to play in the fight against terrorism," the Latvian justice minister added.

The main objectives in the fight against terrorism formulated at the meeting include updating legislation, improving Eurojust, an EU agency for judicial cooperation in criminal matters, achieving better understanding of the judicial aspects of foreign fighters' prosecution, using rehabilitation programs in the judicial context and strengthening judicial cooperation.

After the ministerial meetings in Riga, Latvia intends to propose a joint statement of the bloc's justice and interior ministers on further steps that are to be taken in the clampdown on terrorism, Rasnacs said, adding that the document would provide a basis for further discussions on the issue in the European Council.

"Realizing the importance of data protection on Europe's agenda, the presidency will seek to achieve maximum possible progress regarding the data reform. I believe that the judiciary measures can contribute to the growth of Europe's competitiveness," he said.

The European Commissioner for Justice, Consumers and Gender Equality, Vera Jourova, said at the news conference that the terrorist attacks in Paris amounted to an assault on Europe's common values -- respect for life, freedom and tolerance.

The EU commissioner said that efforts should be made to combat anti-Semitic hatred as well as anti-Muslim sentiments and noted the need to step up the prevention of radicalization, especially in detention facilities. Enditem