This week, the European Parliament started its essential work to investigate the abuse of Pegasus Spyware by EU Governments.

In light of fresh allegations on the use of surveillance tools against citizens, journalists and politicians, the importance and urgency of the new Pegasus Inquiry Committee (PEGA), initiated by Renew Europe, is greater than ever.

Renew Europe is pleased to have secured some key positions in the Committee. Moritz Körner MEP (FDP, DE) has been elected as third Vice-President and Sophie in ‘t Veld MEP (D66, NL) is expected to be appointed Rapporteur to draft the PEGA report. The report will investigate whether the use of spyware has breached EU law and fundamental rights, and the final report is expected to be adopted in 12 months.

in ‘t Veld, said: "The gravity of the Pegasus scandal cannot be overstated. When governments target individuals for political purposes, then that runs against every democratic and lawful instinct I have. We have strong indications that journalists, activists, and democratic opposition members have been targeted. The targeting of European Commissioners, possibly by governments in the EU, is exacerbating the already grave situation. We need to get to the bottom of this."

Körner, added: "Surveillance spyware can endanger fundamental rights and destabilise democracies. Optimally, the work of this inquiry committee should be the first step towards regulating the international sale and use of spyware technology and establishing legally binding no-spying-agreements for the public and private sector among friendly democracies."

Pegasus Inquiry starts its work!

In light of fresh reports of the abuse of surveillance, the importance of the Pegasus Inquiry Committee, initiated by us, is greater than ever

Congratulations to @moritzkoerner, who was elected to 3rd Vice-Chair!

📰with @SophieintVeld & him👇

— Renew Europe (@RenewEurope) April 19, 2022