Human rights, the unpleasant and out of place comment by the President of the European Parliament Metsola when some MEPs chanted “Bella Ciao”

ROMA – We receive this item by the director of the MAEC – Mediterranean Aid Education Center, an NGO born from the experience of MOAS ITALIA, which provides assistance to vulnerable communities in Italy and around the world, supporting those faces poverty, conflict, persecution and climate disasters.

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In the European Parliament we witnessed a profound moment of protest. As Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban addressed the Assembly, a group of MEPs stood up and sang the anthem of the Italian Resistance, “Bella Ciao”. This act was not just an expression of defiance; it was a deeply symbolic reminder of the struggle against fascism, tyranny and oppression that Europe has already experienced in the past—and that we must resist again today.

Roberta Metsola’s demeaning words. However, in response, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola dismissed this heartfelt act of protest, comparing it to Eurovision, saying: “This is not Eurovision.” His comment reduced a sincere expression of solidarity with the oppressed to something banal and funny—undermining the heart of what “Bella Ciao” ​​represents.

“Bella Ciao” ​​is not just a song. It carries with it the weight of history, a song born from the Italian partisans who fought against fascism during the Second World War. It is a cry for freedom, justice and human dignity. It speaks of the universal struggle against dictatorship, reminding us of the sacrifices made—and still being made—for the rights we sometimes take for granted. When MEPs chose to sing this anthem, they drew on a long tradition of resistance, taking a stand against the rising tide of authoritarianism embodied by leaders like Orban.

Metsola’s comment wasn’t just out of line. It was painful. At a time when people are struggling to maintain their freedoms, when human rights are being trampled upon and when leaders like Orban are eroding democracy at the very heart of the European Union, such a genuine act of protest deserves respect. Comparing it to Eurovision is not understanding the gravity of the situation. It’s not just Hungarian democracy that’s in danger—we all are.

There was nothing playful or lighthearted about this protest. The MEPs who raised their voices were defending much more than just a political difference – they were defending the soul of Europe. And they chose “Bella Ciao” ​​because its message of resistance and hope transcends borders and time. It’s a reminder that we cannot remain silent in the face of injustice.

Because this song was sung. Orban has led Hungary down a path in which press freedom has been limited, judicial independence has been attacked and civil rights have been eroded. His government has openly challenged the values ​​of democracy, yet here he is, in the European Parliament, speaking as if these actions didn’t matter. For those who still believe in justice and equality, the silence would have been unbearable. Singing “Bella Ciao” ​​was their way of saying that Europe will not slip silently into that darkness again.

* Regina Egle Liotta Catrambone – director of MAEC – Mediterranean Aid Education Center