Faisal Al-Fayez, Jordan’s Senate Speaker, criticized Western nations for their ‘double standards’ on democracy and human rights during a conference in Strasbourg. He emphasized the need for consistent application of democratic values and addressed the Palestinian situation, the role of social media, and growing global inequalities. Al-Fayez called for a collective commitment to uphold human rights and democracy.
On Thursday, Faisal Al-Fayez, the Speaker of Jordan’s Senate, addressed the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe in Strasbourg, expressing his criticisms of Western nations regarding their inconsistent application of democratic values and human rights. He emphasized the importance of uniform commitment to democracy, public freedoms, and social justice, stating that democracy must be regarded as a shared responsibility.
Al-Fayez denounced the perceived double standards of Western countries on public freedoms and democratic practices, asserting that true democratic values cannot be selectively applied. He remarked: “The reality confirms that the West has begun to adopt a policy of double standards regarding issues of public freedoms and democratic practice.”
The conference, which spans two days, is addressing significant issues such as the protection of democracy, freedom of expression, and the implications of contemporary global political challenges. Al-Fayez underlined the need for political and security stability to sustain democracy while rejecting selective human rights approaches.
He urged the international community to reinforce the principles of justice upheld by international organizations and called for actions to protect human rights universally. Al-Fayez stated, “We must implement international legitimacy resolutions pertaining to people’s rights to freedom and independence, reject racism and sectarianism, and respect minorities’ rights.”
Touching on the Palestinian situation, Al-Fayez criticized the hypocrisy he observes in Western responses to human rights violations. He remarked on the prolonged suffering of the Palestinian people, citing the escalation of violence since October 7, 2023, with many casualties among innocent civilians, particularly women and children.
Furthermore, Al-Fayez raised concerns regarding social media’s role in propagating disinformation and hate speech, which ironically undermines the initial goals of promoting public freedoms. He explained: “Social media, which is meant to support freedom of expression, freedom of publication, and public freedoms, has regrettably added to the problems that democracy faces.”
He concluded by highlighting the growing dissatisfaction with democratic institutions stemming from economic and technological divides between the Global North and South. Al-Fayez noted that these social and economic disparities present serious challenges to democracy’s future, stating, “All of these factors have put democracy and its future through a difficult test.”
In summary, Faisal Al-Fayez critiques the inconsistent application of democratic values by Western nations, calling for a consistent commitment to human rights. He addresses various critical issues, including the Palestinian plight, the impact of social media, and the economic inequalities that challenge democracy worldwide. Al-Fayez emphasizes the necessity of unity and resilience in upholding democratic principles amidst these challenges.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
