Madrid Spain

23/05/23

The Europe Peace Foundation reiterates that privacy is a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of democratic societies. We express deep concern over the recently published documents revealing violations of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) by U.S. spy agencies. The revelations that the FBI misused a foreign intelligence database and that the NSA and CIA conducted warrantless queries raise serious questions about the protection of individual’s privacy and civil liberties.

The misuse of surveillance powers to target journalists, political commentators, and participants in peaceful protests, such as the Black Lives Matter movement, is deeply troubling. Such actions undermine the principles of free speech, freedom of the press, and the right to assembly, which are essential for a functioning democracy. These incidents highlight the potential for abuse when surveillance programs lack proper oversight and accountability mechanisms.

The Europe Peace Foundation emphasizes the need for transparent and accountable practices in intelligence gathering. While recognizing the importance of national security, it is crucial to strike a balance that upholds privacy rights and prevents the unjust targeting of individuals based on their political beliefs or associations. Surveillance programs should adhere to legal frameworks that protect individual rights and require clear evidence of probable cause for surveillance activities.

The Europe Peace Foundation urges the United States government to address these violations and ensure that appropriate measures are taken to safeguard the privacy and civil liberties of its citizens. It is essential to conduct thorough investigations, hold accountable those responsible for the abuses, and implement reforms to prevent similar violations in the future.

As an organization dedicated to peace, human rights, and the promotion of democratic values, the Europe Peace Foundation stands in solidarity with all individuals whose privacy and civil liberties have been compromised. We will continue to advocate for strong safeguards, transparent oversight, and respect for privacy rights in all aspects of intelligence gathering and surveillance activities.

Protecting privacy is crucial in maintaining trust between governments and their citizens. By upholding privacy as a fundamental human right, we can create a more secure and respectful society that fosters peace, freedom, and justice for all.