Michael McGrath Photo: open source
A candidate for the post of European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice and the Rule of Law, Irish politician and lawyer Michael McGrath, has announced his intention to ensure that Russia is held accountable for the crime of aggression and war crimes committed in Ukraine. He said this on Tuesday during hearings in the relevant committees of the European Parliament in Brussels, Ukrinform reports.
“On the borders of our European Union, there is a country that courageously defends its freedom and the lives of its citizens. Since the beginning of Russia’s unjustified aggression, the EU has stood by Ukraine. I thank the members of this Parliament for your continued support for Ukraine. If confirmed, I will continue to work for the EU’s active participation in international efforts to hold Russia fully accountable for its actions,” McGrath said.
McGrath outlined his programme of work, which includes strengthening the EU’s democratic institutions, protecting European democracies from external information interference and manipulation, and ensuring legal protection of freedom of speech, press and journalists’ safety.
The candidate for the post of European Commissioner paid special attention to the creation of the so-called “shield of European democracy”. This initiative envisages linking EU budget programmes with support for member states in adhering to the rule of law and human rights. McGrath stressed that the implementation of this plan would require close cooperation with the EU’s financial institutions.
Previously, McGrath served as Minister of Finance of Ireland, where he gained considerable experience in financial and management issues, which, according to him, will help him in his new position to ensure proper legal support for the entire spectrum of EU democratic processes.
