Baku: Cardinal Robert Sarah, an influential figure within the Roman Catholic Church, delivered a powerful critique of the European Union's policies towards Africa, accusing the EU of leveraging economic, political, and diplomatic pressure to impose values alien to the continent. Speaking on July 15, 2026, the 81-year-old Guinean Cardinal addressed the European Parliament in Brussels, alleging that the EU's approach is veiled neocolonialism under the guise of cooperation.

According to Burkina Information Agency, Cardinal Sarah argued that the EU enforces ideological conditions on Africa through treaties and action plans, which he claims have turned into instruments of silent power rather than genuine partnership. He criticized the EU's use of terms like "human rights" and "gender equality," suggesting they are manipulated to serve purposes contrary to African cultural and anthropological views.

The Cardinal outlined a three-tiered system of pressure, involving European Parliament resolutions on controversial social issues, the Samoa Agreement regulating EU-African relations, and extensive European financial instruments. He highlighted the case of Uganda, where the EU allegedly attempted to dissuade anti-homosexuality legislation by threatening to revoke trade preferences, as an example of this coercive strategy.

Cardinal Sarah condemned the establishment of ministries in African nations focused on gender theory in exchange for economic aid, and the pressure from international bodies like the United Nations to decriminalize homosexuality. He emphasized the neglect of urgent needs such as healthcare, education, and clean water in favor of imposing Western ideologies.

In his address, the Cardinal praised countries like Kenya and Uganda for constitutional protections of life from conception and commended President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda for urging African nations to reject parts of the Samoa Agreement that clash with their cultural values. He urged European leaders to respect Africa's cultural sovereignty and engage in cooperation devoid of ideological motives.

Cardinal Sarah, born in 1945 in Guinea, has served in various significant roles within the Catholic Church, including Archbishop of Conakry and as a member of the Roman Curia. Known for his conservative views, he has consistently advocated for traditional liturgical practices and opposed issues such as abortion and euthanasia. His recent speech further cements his stance as a vocal critic of what he perceives as the EU's overreach into African affairs.