Nordic MEPs blacklisted Danish firm Rud Pedersen for its role in promoting Morocco’s exploitation of Sahrawi resources. They criticized the firm for lobbying on behalf of an occupying power, referencing international law that prohibits such actions. The MEPs stressed the importance of upholding ethical standards and human rights, vowing not to engage with RP or similar entities.
On March 12, 2025, Nordic Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) declared their condemnation of Morocco’s engagement with the Danish consulting firm Rud Pedersen (RP) to promote the exploitation of Sahrawi fishery and agricultural products in Europe. As a result, they have placed RP on a blacklist, urging a disassociation from the illegal occupation of Western Sahara.
The leftist MEPs, including Per Clausen, Hanna Gedin, Jonas Sjöstedt, and Jussi Saramo, expressed their moral opposition to the firm’s actions, asserting, “Working for an occupying power, whether directly or indirectly, is not only morally indefensible but also contributes to a more unstable world.” They voiced their disappointment, having expected RP to uphold higher ethical standards.
The MEPs were taken aback to learn that RP was enlisted by Morocco to lobby for controversial trade agreements with the European Union (EU). They highlighted that the General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises (CGEM) had commissioned RP for these efforts, noting connections between CGEM and the Moroccan government, including recruitment from the family of the Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Furthermore, the lawmakers referenced a critical ruling by the Court of Justice of the European Union from October 4, 2024, which nullified previous fishing agreements that implicated Western Sahara, emphasizing that trade agreements with the EU must not include products from illegally occupied territories. They reiterated that the occupation and exploitation of Western Sahara by Morocco is illegal according to the United Nations.
In conclusion, the Nordic MEPs conveyed a stern message to Rud Pedersen, stating that their representation of Morocco’s interests is incompatible with Nordic values. They pledged not to engage with the firm on any issue as long as it supports an occupying power, and encouraged their colleagues in the European Parliament to adopt a similar stance against entities endorsing the occupation of Western Sahara.
The condemnation of Rud Pedersen by Nordic MEPs underscores a strong ethical stance against the exploitation of occupied territories. By blacklisting the consulting firm, the lawmakers emphasize the need for adherence to international law, particularly concerning Western Sahara. Their unified message reflects a commitment to uphold human rights and oppose the actions of entities facilitating illegal occupations. Additionally, the MEPs’ call for broader parliamentary support highlights the importance of collective action in addressing ethical concerns in international relations.
Original Source: al24news.com
