Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001922/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Sophie Wilmès (Renew)
For several months, the non-governmental organisation (NGO) Sabeel has been publishing problematic images and statements that are obviously antisemitic in nature, particularly if we take into account the definition of antisemitism approved and used by the EU.
For example, denying the Jewish people their right to self-determination is considered a constitutive example of antisemitism. However, Naim Ateek (founder and member of Sabeel) wrote: ‘It has taken me years to accept the establishment of the State of Israel and its need – although not its right – to exist’. This sentence clearly denies the right to self-determination.
Other blatant examples can be found in a report by NGO Monitor. Yet, according to this report, the 2019-2024 Commission decided to provide EUR 1 million in funding to Sabeel. This funding for an NGO making statements such as these seems problematic, especially in the current global context, which is marked by growing antisemitism.
Given the foregoing:
- 1.What checks does the Commission carry out before granting funding to NGOs?
- 2.Why has the Commission not reacted in this case, and on the basis of what criteria does it justify not suspending this funding?
- 3.What are the options for suspending this type of financing?
Submitted: 14.5.2025