November 2, 2011

The Honourable Baroness Catherine Ashton
High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
Vice President of the European Commission.

The release of mr.Gilad Shalit and of Palestinian prisoners.

Dear Madam,

First I want to thank you for the answer of 5. May, which I received from mr. Ilkka Uusitalo on behalf of you, concerning the cases of the Palestinian human rights defenders mr Abu Rahman and mr Bassem Tamimi. It is good to know, that EU is aware of the fate of mr Tamimi as well as of similar cases.  

However, it surprises me that you did not mention the release of Palestinians in the statement you issued on 12th October, in which you warmly welcomed the release of mr.Gilad Shalit. It disagrees with your awareness of the fact, that the Israeli authorities are imprisoning as well non-violent as violent Palestinian freedom defenders.  

Also it was very surprising to read the statement issued by the chairman of the European Parliament mr. Jerzy Buzek, who are relating to the fate of mr. Gilad Shalit in a way, that is close to making mr. Shalit an European martyr, although ”prisoner of war” must be the most relevant designation.  

Recently ”Jerusalem Post” published a statement by the prominent Israeli human rights and peace defender, Gershon Baskin. He tells in details about his years of unofficial negotiations with prominent Palestinians. An important information is, that in 2006 the Palestinans made an offer about release of Gilad Shalit, which was very close to the agreement that now after 5 years has been accepted by the parties. But former Israeli Prime Minister Olfert refused to negotiate at that time.  

Finally I hope that you, Madam, are aware of the 164 Palestinian children who are imprisoned by the Israelies and whose destiny are not mentioned in the exchange agreement.  

On 17th October UNICEF published an appeal to the Israeli Government to release 164 Palestinian children. It is my hope that EU will do the same.  

Sincerely  

On behalf of Human Rights March:

Kirsten Grosen 
Stenleddet 29, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
Email:kirsten.grosen@mail.dk