Members of the European Parliament recently rejected a proposal to honor Charlie Kirk with a moment of silence during a session at the Chamber of Commerce. Kirk, who was only 31, was shot and killed on Wednesday after engaging with a student at Utah Valley University, an event that sent shockwaves across the nation.
He was well-known for energizing young conservatives and frequently appeared at university events through Turning Point USA. Former President Donald Trump referred to him as “America’s best.”
In response to the tragic incident, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni termed the attack a “deep wound to democracy.”
Swedish MEP Charlie Weimers, from a European conservative and reform group, urged his colleagues to declare that “we cannot extinguish our right to free speech.” His request found support among members of the German AFD and the French Free Identity Movement.
However, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola denied the request, citing procedural rules that require tributes to be formally submitted at the beginning of the plenary session. She noted that there may still be an opportunity for recognition in October.
During the proceedings, when Weimers attempted to yield for a moment of silence, he was interrupted by Vice President Katarina Barley, leading to protests from right-wing lawmakers. “We discussed this, but I know the president said no in a moment of silence,” Barley remarked, receiving applause from centrist and left-leaning members.
Outside the chamber, Hungarian Fides MEP Andorra Laslo criticized the Parliament for its inconsistency, pointing out past praise for George Floyd while rejecting a tribute to Kirk.
On social media, some lawmakers shared “I Am Charlie” images, echoing sentiments from the 2015 attack on Charlie Hebdo.
Metsola defended the decision, aligning it with established processes while expressing her condolences. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife and young children. It was the bedrock of his life,” she said.
