Nordic MEPs have blacklisted Rud Pedersen, a Danish consulting firm hired by Morocco for lobbying regarding the exploitation of Sahrawi resources. They condemned the moral implications of supporting an occupying power and highlighted the illegalities surrounding trade agreements involving Western Sahara. A strong commitment to uphold ethical standards in international relations was emphasized in their declaration.
On March 12, 2025, Nordic representatives in the European Parliament announced their decision to blacklist the Danish consulting firm Rud Pedersen, hired by Morocco to promote the exploitation of Sahrawi fishery and agricultural products in Europe. This condemnation reflects broader concerns regarding the ethical implications of engaging with Morocco amidst its controversial practices in Western Sahara.
MEPs stated their stance firmly, urging severance of ties with Morocco, asserting, “Until you do so, you will remain on our blacklist.” Leftist MEPs emphasized that supporting an occupying power undermines global stability and ethical standards, expressing their disappointment in Rud Pedersen’s engagement with Morocco.
The decision emerged after revelations from NGOs regarding Morocco’s use of Rud Pedersen for lobbying on trade and fishing agreements. This operation reportedly involved recruiting the daughter of the Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs and raised alarms about ties between Rud Pedersen and the Moroccan government.
Furthermore, MEPs highlighted a significant ruling from the Court of Justice of the European Union that reaffirmed the illegality of including Western Sahara within trade agreements with the EU. They reiterated that goods from illegally occupied territories should not be part of such agreements.
In their declaration, they reiterated the UN’s classification of Western Sahara as a non-self-governing territory, categorically rejecting the prolonged occupation and exploitation by Morocco. MEPs communicated a strong message to Rud Pedersen regarding their endeavors, emphasizing their moral opposition and refusal to engage on any matters as long as the firm represents Morocco’s interests.
The Nordic representatives in the European Parliament have taken a strong stand against the Danish consulting firm Rud Pedersen’s engagement with Morocco, marking a significant political response to ethical concerns surrounding exploitation in Western Sahara. The blacklisting follows revelations about the firm’s lobbying efforts for trade agreements that violate international law, reflecting a moral commitment to uphold justice and oppose occupation. This stance calls for a unified approach across the EU to discourage collaboration with states involved in illegal occupations.
Original Source: al24news.com
