The European Parliament has voted to support adding Muslim Brotherhood-linked groups to the EU terror list. This move aims to combat Islamist influence and prevent EU funds from reaching extremist networks. The resolution passed with a significant majority, with 381 votes in favor, 167 against, and 15 abstentions.
What happened
The resolution calls on EU member states to develop a coordinated strategy to counter "Islamist entryism" and the influence of Muslim Brotherhood networks within European institutions and civil society. It also urges member states to provide information to assess whether Brotherhood-linked individuals and organizations meet the criteria for terrorist designation. Additionally, the resolution calls for scrutiny of alleged front organizations, financial networks, youth groups, and other entities associated with the movement.
The initiative was led by the center-right European People's Party (EPP) and drew support from conservative and centrist lawmakers. The European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) Group and the European Jewish Congress welcomed the vote, calling it an important step toward confronting extremist networks and their financing.
The vote follows mounting scrutiny of the Brotherhood's activities across Europe, including a French government investigation that raised concerns about the movement's alleged efforts to expand its influence. The European Parliament's vote places political pressure on EU institutions and national governments to consider designating Muslim Brotherhood-linked groups as terrorist entities and to implement restrictions on funding and institutional cooperation.
