In Paris on April 2nd and 3rd, Béatrice Molle-Haran and Txetx Etcheverry will be on trial for their involvement in the neutralization of the ETA organization’s arsenal on December 16, 2016 in Louhossoa. At a time where the news is filled with war and violent conflicts, it is more necessary than ever to preserve peace in the Basque Country. This trial will have a particular significance in that regard. In 2011, three days after the international conference in Aiete, presided over by Kofi Annan, ETA announced the irreversible end of armed struggle. After this step, the Aiete declaration encouraged the French and Spanish governments to engage in dialogue regarding the consequences of the Basque conflict.
Unfortunately, the governments did not recognize Aiete as a diplomatic act, despite their insistence on the disarmament and dissolution of the organization. France and Spain continued with a policy of exception towards Basque prisoners, even preventing ETA from safely dismantling their arsenal. It was the disarmament operation in Louhossoa that finally sparked change. In line with their pacifist commitments, the “peacebuilders” demonstrated their civic conscience. Despite being praised and supported by Basque society and its representatives, spanning all political ideologies, Molle-Haran and Etcheverry were arrested and detained under anti-terror laws. The Basque model of disarmament, where local officials and civil society worked hand in hand, became a unique example.
On April 8, 2017, a “disarmament day” was held in Bayonne, thanks to the efforts of then-French Prime Minister Bernard Cazeneuve, who aimed to uphold the rule of law in the process. This event included the surrender of the GPS coordinates of the arms caches to Samuel Vuelta Simon, the public prosecutor of Bayonne and former liaison magistrate in Madrid. On May 3, 2018, ETA announced its dissolution. At the same time, discussions began with the French Ministry of Justice and the presidency regarding Basque prisoners. Some progress was made, such as prisoner transfers and conditional releases. However, the state ultimately responded with a confrontational approach, leading to a breakdown in dialogue.
Despite the efforts towards peace and reconciliation, the trial of Molle-Haran and Etcheverry underscores the ongoing challenges in the Basque Country. The repression of Basque activists and the lack of recognition by the states involved continue to impede progress towards lasting peace. The unique Basque model of disarmament, characterized by collaboration between local officials and civil society, stands as a beacon of hope for peaceful resolution of conflicts. As these individuals face trial for their commitment to peace, their actions serve as a reminder of the importance of grassroots movements in building a more peaceful world.
