Samuel Paty: Renew Europe pays its respects, pledges action against extremism and online hate

The Renew group joins in the grief of the family, relatives and students of the teacher Samuel Paty, who was cowardly murdered last Friday in Conflans-sainte-Honorine, France. Renew Europe believes the fundamental values of Europe are once again at stake. This heinous attack recalls the urgent need for the EU to adapt its rules in order to fight more effectively extremist radicalisation and the spread of hatred online.

Following the observation of a minute of silence in the chamber of the European Parliament to honour Mr Paty, Dacian Ciolos, President of the Renew Europe Group in the European Parliament, said: "This attack has shaken us all. It is unthinkable that in Europe it is possible to die teaching, to die passing on such a fundamental value as freedom of expression to our children. My thoughts are with the family, the loved ones and all the students who have appreciated Mr Paty's work. This tragedy reminds us of the fragility of our values and the need to defend them firmly and tirelessly also at European level. It is a permanent struggle for our Renew Europe group".

Stéphane Séjourné : "The horrific attack in Conflans is a powerful reminder. Self-regulation doesn't work! It is up to us MEPs to set the rules, not to social networks. Our democracy, our freedom of expression, and our living together are at stake! I call for the rapid conclusion of the negotiations on terrorist content and for the regulation of hate content at European level. In the face of terrorists, Islamists and separatists, let us stand together and regain control! "

Sophie In't Veld, coordinator in the Committee of Civil Liberties, said: "Our thoughts are first and foremost with the family and loved ones of Mr Paty. This sinister act has deeply wounded his family and those close to Mr Paty. It has struck fear in the hearts of many, teacher and students, thus doing real damage to society, that will not be undone over night. His murder reminds us that we can never take our rights and freedoms for granted. It will take an effort from all of us.We need to unite around our common values and not let ourselves be divided by extremists. Our common values are French values, European values and indeed universal values. We will fight for them and against all forms of hate and intolerance."