European Parliament Drops Charges, Offers Snowden Protection as a “Human Rights Defender”

The criminal charges against whistle blower Edward Snowden have been dropped by the European Parliament. The Minister’s of the EU offered Snowden asylum and protection from rendition from third parties.

Snowden, who is in Russia, took to tweeter to express his relief and joy. The EU Commission is urged to safeguard all data transfers to the US. The EU is examining concerns over surveillance laws in several EU countries, such as reported co-operation by Germany intelligence agency BND with the NSA.

Snowden has been offered asylum in the EU, but remains unwelcome in the US. Obama remains unmoved, charges are still pending against Snowden.