PAC Resolution Against Mass Surveillance by US and UK

The Parliamentary Assembly of the European Council, a statutory organ of the European Council which among others selects the Secretary General of the European Council and the judges of the European Court of Human Rights, has issued a resolution against mass surveillance by countries such as the "five eyes" partners US, UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. Such practice would jeopardize basic human rights. 

The resolution bases its conclusion mainly on findings triggered by the revelations of the former member of the US Intelligence Edward Snowden. It holds that mass surveillance by those countries has not efficiently prevented terrorist attacks or organised crime. But the collected information has been abused for terrorist attacks, business espionage and massive violation of citizens' privacy. It demands modification of national laws and international treaties on the gathering of intelligence.