The EU's Double Standard

Embracing Corruption in Azerbaijan While Ignoring Democratic Alliances

In a world increasingly driven by the need for sustainable and ethical resource management, the European Union (EU) finds itself at a critical crossroads. Recent developments reveal a troubling pattern: the EU’s willingness to engage with corrupt, authoritarian regimes like Azerbaijan while overlooking viable, ethical partnerships with democracies such as Australia. As a sustainability champion and advocate against dictatorships and corruption, it is crucial to expose these contradictions and advocate for a future where democracies work exclusively with democracies, shunning corrupt politicians and states.

Azerbaijan, a former Soviet Republic, has been under the authoritarian rule of President Ilham Aliyev, who succeeded his father in a dynastic transfer of power. The country is notorious for its human rights abuses, lack of press freedom, and systemic corruption. Despite this, Azerbaijan has become an increasingly important energy partner for Europe, especially in light of efforts to reduce dependence on Russian gas.

In 2021, German politician Frank Schwabe witnessed massive electoral fraud while observing elections in Azerbaijan on behalf of the Council of Europe. The suppression of free press and political dissent is rampant, with Azerbaijan ranking near the bottom of the Press Freedom Index. A significant corruption scandal, often referred to as "Caviar Diplomacy," has seen European politicians being bribed to turn a blind eye to Azerbaijan’s human rights violations. Lawmakers have been lured with gifts, luxury trips, and even cash to support the Aliyev regime. Investigations revealed that members of the European Parliament, including Italian and German lawmakers, were involved in these corrupt practices. Notably, representatives such as Eduard Lintner, Axel Fischer, and Karin Strenz were implicated, with allegations of receiving money and other benefits from Azerbaijani sources.

Journalists and activists like Khadija Ismayilova have risked their lives to expose the corruption and human rights abuses in Azerbaijan. Despite facing imprisonment and constant surveillance, their efforts reveal the grim reality of a regime that stifles dissent and enriches a select few at the expense of the populace. The murder of Maltese journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in 2017 is a stark reminder of the deadly risks faced by those who dare to uncover corruption. Caruana Galizia was investigating high-level corruption linked to Azerbaijani business dealings when she was killed by a car bomb, a brutal act that underscores the lengths to which corrupt regimes will go to silence critics.

In stark contrast, the EU’s recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Australia represents a model of ethical and sustainable international cooperation. Signed by key officials from both the EU and Australia, this partnership focuses on the development and integration of sustainable critical minerals value chains. The MoU covers the entire spectrum of the minerals sector, from exploration to recycling, emphasizing innovation, environmental sustainability, and high governance standards.

This partnership is based on mutual benefits and shared democratic values. It aims to diversify the EU’s supply of critical materials necessary for the green and digital transitions while supporting the development of Australia’s domestic minerals sector. Unlike Azerbaijan, Australia is a stable democracy with a strong commitment to environmental and social governance. The EU-Australia MoU promotes innovative and digital technologies in mining, reducing environmental impacts and enhancing sustainability. This forward-thinking approach aligns with the EU’s long-term goals of achieving a green economy and reducing carbon footprints. By collaborating with a democratic partner like Australia, the EU can build resilient and secure supply chains for critical minerals. This approach ensures that the EU's strategic interests are met without compromising on ethical standards or supporting corrupt regimes.

The EU’s engagement with Azerbaijan can be seen as a case of jumping from the frying pan into the fire. While attempting to reduce dependence on Russian energy, the EU has entangled itself with another authoritarian regime, compromising its values and integrity. This relationship not only undermines the EU’s credibility but also perpetuates the cycle of corruption and human rights abuses. The murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia and the continued oppression of journalists in Azerbaijan are stark reminders of the high price paid for such compromises.

The European auto industry, a major economic pillar, has historically relied on fossil fuels. Despite advancements in electric vehicles (EVs), a significant portion of the industry remains tied to internal combustion engines (ICEs). Transitioning to EVs requires not only technological changes but also a reliable supply of critical minerals for batteries, which partnerships like the one with Australia aim to secure. The auto industry is one of the most influential lobbying groups in the EU. Industry giants exert considerable pressure on policymakers to ensure a steady supply of fossil fuels, arguing that this is necessary to maintain economic stability and employment. Lobbyists often highlight the economic risks of a rapid transition to renewables, pushing for a more gradual shift that protects current investments in ICE technology and related infrastructure.

The EU's deal with Azerbaijan is partly driven by the need to secure a stable and diversified supply of fossil fuels, ensuring energy security in the short to medium term. The auto industry's pressure likely plays a role in maintaining these fossil fuel supplies, as abrupt shifts could disrupt the industry's operations and economic contributions. This focus on securing fossil fuels from Azerbaijan could undermine the urgency and momentum of the EU’s transition to renewable energy. Resources and political capital spent on fossil fuel deals might detract from investments in renewable energy infrastructure and technologies.

The EU’s dual strategy sends mixed signals to both the market and global partners. While the partnership with Australia promotes a sustainable future, the engagement with Azerbaijan suggests a lingering commitment to fossil fuels. This inconsistency can confuse investors, stakeholders, and the public about the EU's true commitment to combating climate change and achieving its Green Deal objectives. By engaging with a corrupt regime like Azerbaijan, the EU compromises its ethical standards, supporting a government known for human rights abuses and systemic corruption. In contrast, partnerships with democracies like Australia align with the EU’s values of transparency, sustainability, and human rights.

It is imperative that the EU reconsiders its foreign policy strategy and prioritizes partnerships with democracies that share its commitment to human rights, sustainability, and ethical governance. The EU-Australia partnership serves as a shining example of how democracies can collaborate to achieve mutual benefits without compromising their core values. Citizens and sustainability champions must advocate for a shift in the EU’s approach. The focus should be on building alliances with countries that uphold democratic principles and rejecting deals with corrupt, authoritarian regimes.

Investing in renewable energy sources and sustainable practices within the EU and with like-minded partners can reduce reliance on fossil fuels from questionable sources. This strategy will not only enhance energy security but also promote global stability and ethical governance. The EU stands at a critical juncture where it must choose between compromising its values for short-term gains or committing to a future built on democratic principles and sustainable practices. The partnership with Australia exemplifies the path forward: democracies working with democracies, fostering ethical and sustainable development. It is time for the EU to abandon deals with corrupt regimes like Azerbaijan and embrace a model of international cooperation that aligns with its values and the aspirations of its citizens. By doing so, the EU can ensure a future where ethical governance and sustainability prevail over corruption and authoritarianism. Moving away from fossil fuels with great urgency is not only an ethical imperative but also a strategic necessity for a resilient and sustainable future.

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