Members of the European Parliament conspicuously declined a request on Thursday for a moment of silence in the chamber to honor.
Kirk, 31, was fatally shot on Wednesday while addressing students at, an event that sent shock waves throughout the nation.
He was recognized for his efforts in mobilizing young conservatives and often appeared on college campuses with Turning Point USA. President referred to him as “the best of America.”
Within the EU, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni characterized Kirk’s fatal shooting as “a deep wound for democracy.”
Swedish MEP Charlie Weimers, representing the group, asked colleagues on Thursday to pause proceedings in the house and to “declare that our right to freedom of speech cannot be extinguished.”
Weimers’ request garnered support from members of Germany’s AfD and France’s Identity Liberties movement.
However, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola denied the request, stating that procedural rules mandate tributes must be formally submitted at the opening of a plenary session.
As that session had already convened on Monday, Metsola pointed out that a tribute could still be arranged for October.
When Weimers proceeded to offer his remaining speaking time for a moment of silence, Vice President Katarina Barley interrupted him, triggering desk-banging protests from right-wing lawmakers within the chamber.
“We have discussed this, and you know the president said no to a minute of silence,” Barley stated, as centrist and left-leaning members applauded.
Outside the chamber, Hungarian Fidesz MEP András László accused Parliament of hypocrisy, highlighting that it had previously honored George Floyd but declined to do so for Kirk.
Online, several lawmakers also posted “I am Charlie” images, showcasing the slogan from the 2015 Charlie Hebdo attack.
Metsola defended the decision as being consistent with parliamentary procedure and extended condolences.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife and young children — who were the bedrock of his life,” she conveyed.