As news and images of the abhorrent acts of violence committed in the streets of Paris reach us, the European Movement family across Europe finds itself shocked and desolate. Our thoughts are with the French people, those in Paris and beyond, affected by last night’s events.

The tragic loss of life leaves us all feeling a tremendous sense of despair. Words cannot describe how those that lost loved ones must feel.

With the passage of time, the picture of who are the perpetrators becomes clear. Whatever the circumstances, the murder of innocent people in cold blood goes against basic humanity and our fundamental values.

As we try to understand what happened and why, and as authorities contemplate their response, we must not lose sight of those very values that have been attacked alongside the innocent in Paris.

We must remain true to our common values of freedom, tolerance, solidarity, respect for human rights and the rule of law. Because if we are to abandon those values, which set us apart from the dark forces of hatred and blind savagery, we will allow them to win.