At a glance: the hearings of the Commissioners-designate, the results of the Eurobarometer Survey and the Clean Transition Dialogues.

Krátké zprávy  – 04/10/2024 - čeština

At a glance: the European Parliament’s political groups are preparing for the next plenary session; European Parliament President Roberta Metsola met UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Krátké zprávy  – 03/10/2024 - čeština

At a glance: Parliament will publish the first Eurobarometer survey since the elections; a workshop on food price inflation; and the Committee on Culture and Education will hear a presentation about the House of European History Museum.

Krátké zprávy  – 02/10/2024 - čeština

At a glance: preparations are ongoing for the hearings of the Commissioners-designate; discussions have taken place on the financial assistance package for Ukraine; the Chief Prosecutor of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office has met with members of Parliament’s Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs.

Krátké zprávy  – 01/10/2024 - čeština

At a glance: the first Monetary Dialogue of the 10th parliamentary term with ECB President Christine Lagarde; the Reform Agendas of the Western Balkans countries seeking EU membership; and breast cancer awareness month.

Krátké zprávy  – 30/09/2024 - čeština

At a glance: the announcement of the nominees for the 2024 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought; a financial assistance package for Ukraine; and the Subcommittee on Public Health will mark World Heart Day.

Krátké zprávy  – 27/09/2024 - čeština

At a glance: the exchange of views between the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety and the Hungarian State Secretary for Environmental Affairs; mobilising the EU Solidarity Fund for five Member States; and Multilingualism Day at the European Parliament.

Krátké zprávy  – 26/09/2024 - čeština

At a glance: The nominations for the 2024 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought; the European Researchers’ Night; and the European Week of Sport.

Krátké zprávy  – 25/09/2024 - čeština

At a glance: President Metsola concludes her visit to the UN General Assembly in New York; the Subcommittee on Human Rights discusses the situation in Bangladesh; and a new study on EU oceans and fisheries policy.

Krátké zprávy  – 24/09/2024 - čeština

At a glance: MEPs want EU countries to lift restrictions on Ukraine’s use of Western weapons systems against military targets in Russia; EU Solidarity Fund to be mobilised to support five EU countries; and an exchange of views with a member of the European Central Bank’s Executive Board.

Krátké zprávy  – 23/09/2024 - čeština

At a glance: in Strasbourg, MEPs discussed the threat droughts and extreme weather events pose to EU agriculture; no residues of pesticides banned in the EU allowed for imported agricultural products; and the deteriorating situation of women in Afghanistan.

Krátké zprávy  – 20/09/2024 - čeština

At a glance: During the plenary session, MEPs focused on the devastating floods that ravaged Central and Eastern Europe;  Mario Draghi outlined his blueprint for improving Europe’s competitiveness; and the five shortlisted films for the Lux Award 2025.

Krátké zprávy  – 19/09/2024 - čeština

At a glance: Ursula von der Leyen presents the Commissioners-designate; the latest developments in Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine; and the outcome of Venezuela’s presidential election.

Krátké zprávy  – 18/09/2024 - čeština

At a glance: during the European Parliament’s plenary session in Strasbourg, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán will present Hungary’s priorities for its presidency of the Council of the European Union; MEPs will also discuss the Hungarian National Card residence permit scheme, which now includes Russians and Belarusians, and the EU response to the mpox outbreak.

Krátké zprávy  – 17/09/2024 - čeština

At a glance: during this week’s European Parliament plenary session MEPs will discuss energy as winter approaches; Mario Draghi will present his report in the debating chamber; and the debate on the latest developments in the Middle East.

Krátké zprávy  – 16/09/2024 - čeština

At a glance: a new European Parliament plenary session starts on Monday in Strasbourg; President Metsola met Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo; and the International Day of Democracy.

Krátké zprávy  – 13/09/2024 - čeština

MEPs elected Roberta Metsola (EPP, MT) on January 2022 as President of the European Parliament until 2024.

Roberta Metsola won the election in the first voting round, where she received an absolute majority of 458 votes out of 690 cast in the remote secret vote, among three candidates.&nbsp;

President Metsola is leading the Parliament in the second half of the current legislative term, until a new Parliament is constituted following the 2024 European Elections.

Born in Malta in 1979,&nbsp; Roberta Metsola who has been an MEP since 2013, is the youngest EP President ever elected. She became First Vice-President in November 2020, and was Parliament’s acting President after President Sassoli passed away on 11 January 2022.

She is the third female President of the European Parliament, after Simone Veil (1979-1982) and Nicole Fontaine (1999- 2002).

Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament 2022-2024

In July 2024&nbsp; MEPs re-elected Roberta Metsola (EPP, MT) as President of the European Parliament until 2027, with 562 votes in the first round. Roberta Metsola won the election in the first round of voting, where she received an absolute majority of 562 votes cast out of 699 by secret paper ballot, among two candidates. She will continue to lead Parliament for the first two and a half years of the 10th legislative term.

Born in Malta in 1979, Roberta Metsola has been an MEP since 2013.&nbsp;She was elected First Vice-President in November 2020, and was Parliament’s acting President after President Sassoli passed away on 11 January 2022. On 18 January 2022,&nbsp;she was elected President&nbsp;for the second half of the 9th legislative term. She is the third female President of the European Parliament, after&nbsp;Simone Veil&nbsp;(1979-1982) and Nicole Fontaine (1999-2002).

Addressing the House after she was elected, President Metsola said: “Together, we must stand up for the politics of hope, for the dream that is Europe. I want people to recapture a sense of belief and enthusiasm for our project. A belief to make our shared space safer, fairer, more just and more equal. A belief that together we are stronger and we are better. A belief that ours is a Europe for all.”

Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament 2024-2027

Parliament is pressing for measures to increase the use of alternative fuels as well as to improve road safety and to tackle unfair competition and the exploitation of workers.

In line with its Work Programme 2017, the European Commission proposes a set of initiatives to make traffic safer, encourage smart road charging, reduce CO2 emissions, air pollution and congestion, cut red-tape for businesses, fight illicit employment and ensure proper conditions and rest times for workers. These initiatives are linked to the strategy for a Resilient Energy Union, Europe's transition to a low-carbon economy and the strategy for low-emission mobility.

See more on this topic by visiting our <a href="https://multimedia.europarl.europa.eu/en/mobility-8th-parliamentary-term_6507_pk">package</a> for the 8th parliamentary term.

Mobility

Mario&nbsp;Draghi, formerly the President of the European Central Bank and Prime Minister of Italy, was tasked by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen with presenting ideas on the future of European competitiveness. The report calls the challenge facing policy makers an “existential” one and warns that procrastination will lead to hard choices having to be made. It proposes far-reaching changes to numerous areas such as an “unprecedented” boost to public investment, including through the issuance of new EU common debt, a reform of the EU’s cohesion policy, an overhaul of competition policy, and a new industrial policy with at its core a strategy for reducing Europe’s high energy prices.

European competitiveness

Defying international criticism, Iran has sentenced many protestors to death, and continues to execute people arrested during recent demonstrations.

The demonstrations started in mid-September after a young woman, Mahsa Amini, died in the custody of the ‘morality police’ for, they claimed, breaking the strict hijab rules. Hundreds of people have been killed in the protests that have followed and thousands arrested because of their brutal repression by the government.

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights has called these death sentences “state sanctioned killing”, and said that the Iranian government is using executions to intimidate the population and stamp out dissent.

While the EU is discussing a fourth round of sanctions because of the regime crackdown and Iran's military support for Russia, some member states have called for the classification by the EU of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organisation.

EU - Iran

The European Union and Lebanon enjoy close political relations in the framework of an Association Agreement between the two, which has been in force since April 2006.

This agreement promotes human rights, political dialogue, free movement of goods, and economic, social and cultural cooperation. The EU is committed to supporting democracy, good governance, social inclusion, education and sustainable development in Lebanon.

EU - Lebanon

The European Parliament has regularly called for ambitious measures reducing greenhouse gas emissions in road transport.

The EP has been pushing for the implemention of its 2030 goals to be in line with the targets set by the Paris Agreement. MEPs managed to push through a higher target for reducing EU fleet-wide emissions for new cars by 2030 (40% compared to the EU Commission’s 30%; year of reference 2021). There is an intermediate target of 20% by 2025.&nbsp; Similar targets are set for new vans as well.

Car emissions

On 27 June 2014, the EU and Moldova signed an Association Agreement, including a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (DCFTA), which entered into force in July 2016. In April 2014, Moldova became the first country in the Eastern Partnership to benefit from a visa-free regime. Moldova is the country which is very much affected by the influx of refugees from Ukraine, after the Russian aggression against the country.

In a speech to the European Parliament on 18 May 2022, Moldovan President Maia Sandu called on EU countries to rally behind her country’s European aspirations. In her address to MEPs in Brussels, President Sandu outlined how Russia’s invasion of neighbouring Ukraine had echoes of Europe’s troubled past, with its ‘unabashed land grabs, geopolitical conquests and spheres of influence’.&nbsp;

Against the backdrop of the war, Moldova formally applied for EU membership in March 2022 and President Sandu stated her firm conviction that the country is part of the European community.

EU - Moldova

The European Parliament in April 2024 adopted ten legislative texts to reform European migration and asylum policy as agreed with EU member states. Five separate EU regulations, establishe&nbsp;how to share the management of asylum and migration flows among member states and what to do in cases of sudden migratory crisis.

The rules also regulate how to deal with people arriving at the EU’s external borders, the processing of asylum claims, and the identification of those arriving.

Following the deal in trilogue in December 2023 ,&nbsp;EP President Roberta Metsola&nbsp;said: “”Today is a truly historic day, as we have delivered on the Migration and Asylum Pact, possibly the most important legislative package of this mandate. Europe will now get a robust legislative framework that is the same in all Member States. That functions and that protects, an approach that is humane and fair with those seeking protection, that is firm with those who are not eligible, and that is strong with those who exploit the most vulnerable &nbsp;

Refugee movements and migration are at the centre of global attention.&nbsp; The European Parliament is actively involved, in the adoption of new laws on irregular and regular immigration. It is a full co-legislator together with the Council representing member states on these matters since the entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty in 2009.

Migration

The European Parliament has repeatedly advocated press freedom and media pluralism in the EU and abroad.&nbsp; World Press Freedom Day was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in December 1993, following the recommendation of UNESCO's General Conference. Since then, 3 May, the anniversary of the&nbsp;Declaration of Windhoek&nbsp;is celebrated worldwide as World Press Freedom Day.

Already in 2018 the EP adopted a resolution on media pluralism and media freedom in the EU, noting the political developments in various members states, that have led to increased pressures on and threats against journalists.&nbsp; The European Parliament has also&nbsp;launched the Daphne Caruana Galizia Prize for Journalism.&nbsp;

The prize commends outstanding journalism revolving around the principles and values of the European Union. On the field of legislation, Parliament wants to reinforce protection of journalists and activists in the EU against unfounded and abusive lawsuits aimed to silence them.&nbsp;

MEPs also gave their final green light to new legislation to protect EU journalists and media from political or economic interference during the March Plenary session.

Under the new law, adopted by 464 votes in favour to 92 against and 65 abstentions, member states will be obliged to protect media independence and all forms of interventions in editorial decisions will be banned.

More info:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/press-room/20240308IPR19014/media-freedom-act-a-new-bill-to-protect-eu-journalists-and-press-freedom">https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/press-room/20240308IPR19014/media-freedom-act-a-new-bill-to-protect-eu-journalists-and-press-freedom</a>

Press freedom

The United Nations defines violence against women as "any act of gender-based violence that results in, or is likely to result in, physical, sexual, or mental harm or suffering to women, including threats of such acts, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in public or in private life."

The Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women, also known as the Istanbul Convention, is the first legally binding international instrument on this issue. It establishes a comprehensive framework of measures for preventing such violence, supporting victims and punishing perpetrators.&nbsp;

MEPs have voted during May 2023 plenary to approve the European Union’s accession to the Convention on preventing and combating violence against women, concluding Parliament’s role in the process. Six years after the EU signed the Istanbul Convention - it has still not been ratified because of the refusal of a few member states, despite&nbsp;Parliament’s multiple calls to this end.

However, the EU&nbsp;Court of Justice’s opinion of 6 October 2021&nbsp;confirmed that the European Union can ratify the Istanbul Convention without having the agreement of all member states. The Court found that the appropriate scope for the EU’s accession is asylum, judicial cooperation in criminal matters, and obligations of the EU institutions and public administration.

The EU’s accession to the Istanbul Convention does not exempt member states from ratifying it themselves, MEPs have repeatedly said, urging the remaining six countries - Bulgaria, Czechia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania and Slovakia - to ratify the Convention without delay, so that it can protect women to the full extent of the Convention’s intended scope

Violence against women

Compared to the rest of the world, Europe has the best levels of social protection and also ranks highly in terms of quality of life and wellbeing. However, it faces a wide range of challenges, including impact of the COVID situation.

The EU has only limited competence when it comes to social issues as most of it is up to national governments. The responsibility for employment and social policies lies mostly with the member states and their governments. This means that national governments - and not the EU - decide on issues such as wage regulations, including minimum wage, the role of collective bargaining, pensions systems and retirement age, and unemployment benefits.

However, over the years, the EU has been working on social issues throughout the European integration process and come up with a series of instruments in the social sector. These include EU laws, funds and tools to better coordinate and monitor national policies. The EU also encourages countries to share best practices on issues such as social inclusion, poverty and pensions.

One of the supporting tools is the European Social Fund+, with a total budget of €88 billion for next 7 years. It will play an important role in the implementation of the action plan on the European Pillar of Social Rights and in countering the socio-economic effects of the pandemic. It integrates the former European Social Fund, the Youth Employment Initiative (YEI), the Fund for European Aid to the most Deprived (FEAD) and the EU programme for Employment and Social Innovation (EaSI) into one fund.

Social Europe

Israel is a key and strategic ally of the European Union. Political, economic and social cooperation - as well as trade, cultural and scientific exchanges - with Israel date almost to the origins of the EU itself.&nbsp;

President of the EP Roberta Metsola reacted to the attacks launched by Hamas on Israel&nbsp;during the first weekend of October by stressing that the EP condemned&nbsp;&nbsp;the terror and violence waged against innocent people.

In the statement by MEPs David McAllister and Antonio López-Istúriz White declared:

“We follow with utmost concern the news of terrible violence in Israel. We strongly condemn the heinous attack launched against Israel by Hamas terrorists on this Sabbath morning. We affirm the right of Israel to defend itself, and express our solidarity with Israel in these difficult moments.

We must not let opponents of peace ruin the chances of reconciliation and peaceful co-existence in Israel and Palestine. We call on all partners for peace to be present and active in order to bring the peace process back on track.”

EU - Israel

The Delegation for relations with Palestine is concerned with developments in the Middle East Peace Process and the European Union's policy and actions concerning the establishment of the two state-solution. The European Parliament has repeatedly expressed its strong support for the two-state solution, with the State of Israel and an independent, sovereign, free, contiguous and viable Palestinian State with living side-by-side in peace. Delegation Members assess the situation in Palestine regularly, meeting with Palestinian authorities, Palestinian Legislative Council counterparts, and political and community leaders as well as NGOs.

EU - Palestine

Exposing and eradicating discrimination on the grounds of gender and sex remains a priority for the European Parliament. Through the&nbsp;FEMM Committee and plenary debates, MEPs frequently discuss&nbsp;the impact on women of social and economic changes.

The European Parliament aims to address and denounce events and policy that breach or threaten the rights of women,&nbsp;both within the EU and abroad.

During the last week of October 2023, the European Parliament holds its fourth European Gender Equality Week,&nbsp;at the initiative of the Women’s Rights Committee. Several committees will hold debates with a gender perspective to discuss policy shortcomings and achievements, and how to advance women's rights in all EU policy areas.

Women's rights

Calling for a European common approach, EU foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell recently described the situation in Gaza as “catastrophic both from a humanitarian and political point of view with no positive outlook in sight”.

According to the Gaza Health Ministry, the Israeli forces have killed more than 40 000 Palestinians since October 2023, in response to the attack by Hamas against Israel, in which some 1 200 people were killed and around 250 people abducted.

The European Parliament has repeatedly called for an&nbsp;immediate and permanent ceasefire&nbsp;and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.

MEPs have voiced deep concern about the risk of escalation in the conflict, in particular in Lebanon.

EP President Metsola visited&nbsp;Israel on Friday 13 October 2023 to express solidarity with the victims of the Hamas terrorist attacks, and meet with Israeli leadership. The EP held&nbsp;a solemn ceremony&nbsp;in solidarity with victims of the attacks.

Situation in Israel and Gaza

World Mental Health Day - need for a comprehensive EU strategy on mental health

The Conference of Presidents meets to confirm the details of the calendar for the confirmation hearings of Commissioners-designate, a crucial step in the approval process of the new European Commission. The Conference of Presidents, led by the EP President and political group leaders, oversees Parliament's legislative planning, committee responsibilities, and relations with EU institutions. This meeting play a key role in setting the Parliament’s agenda.

Meeting of the Conference of Presidents

MEPs delve into the management of Europe’s external borders and the role of the EU Border and Coast Guard Agency.  
Migratory pressures towards Europe are expected to increase and cross border-crime will continue to evolve in the context of geopolitical instabilities in the EU’s neighbourhood, requiring enhanced border management. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen told Parliament in July that Frontex could further increase its staff to 30 000 agents. MEPs quiz the Commission on technological solutions and possible changes to Frontex’s mandate. They are also likely to raise the issue of the instrumentalisation of migrants by third countries as well as fundamental rights violations at the EU’s borders.
This debate take place against the backdrop of the EU and its member states continuing to prepare for the implementation of the Pact on Migration and Asylum and, in particular the screening regulation, to improve security checks for persons arriving in the EU irregularly and speed up asylum and return procedures for those not entitled to international protection.

Strengthening the security of Europe’s external borders: need for a comprehensive approach and enhanced Frontex support

MEPs discuss with the Commission ways to encourage public and private investment in decent and affordable housing in Europe. Ahead of her confirmation as Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen said in a statement before Parliament on 18 July that Europe faces a housing crisis and announced she would appoint a Commissioner to be directly responsible for this issue. Danish Minister for Development Cooperation and Global Climate Policy Dan Jørgensen is the Commissioner-designate for Housing and Energy.
As part of its Renovation Wave Strategy, the Commission launched an Affordable Housing Initiative in October 2023. Before that, in January 2021, Parliament called on the EU to recognise access to decent and affordable housing as an enforceable human right.

Ensuring sustainable, decent and affordable housing in Europe

MEPs discuss with Prime Minister Viktor Orbán the programme for Hungary’s six-month Council Presidency that started on 1 July 2024.The Hungarian government has announced the following priorities for its six month Presidency: A new European competitiveness deal; Boosting European defence policy; A consistent and merit-based enlargement policy; Stemming illegal migration; Shaping the future of cohesion policy; A farmer-oriented EU agricultural policy; Addressing demographic challenges.


During the 2019-2024 legislative period, Parliament repeatedly denounced the Hungarian government’s deliberate and systematic efforts to undermine EU values and the threat it poses for EU institutions and funds. MEPs have expressed serious concerns about the Orbán government’s ability to credibly fulfil its role leading the Council. According to Parliament, the situation has worsened since the activation of the Article 7(1) procedure - to the point that Hungary can no longer be considered a full democracy.

Presentation of the programme of activities of the Hungarian Presidency

MEPs discuss the declining state of democracy in Georgia with EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell, ahead of a vote on a related resolution scheduled for Thursday. As the country prepares for parliamentary elections on 26 October, concerns have arisen over the ruling Georgian Dream party's increasingly authoritarian policies, particularly regarding media freedom and LGBTQ+ rights. Despite being granted EU candidate status in December 2023, the party has faced criticism for its crackdown on pro-democracy protests and for advancing a law labeling Western-funded media and NGOs as "foreign agents." If Georgian Dream secures a significant majority in the upcoming elections, there are fears that the multi-party system and political pluralism in Georgia could be further jeopardized.

Threats to political pluralism in Georgia

MEPs wengage in a debate with EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell regarding Russian attempts to interfere in Moldova's upcoming presidential elections. Following this discussion, a resolution addressing these concerns will be put to a vote on Thursday.

Moldova is set to hold its presidential election on 20 October 2024, coinciding with a referendum on EU membership. Senior Moldovan officials have raised alarms about Moscow's use of hybrid tactics aimed at undermining the country's pro-European government, led by President Maia Sandu, as it seeks to advance its EU integration following the granting of EU candidate status in June 2022.

Strengthening Moldova's resilience against Russian interference

MEPs address the ongoing crisis in the EU’s automotive industry, focusing on enhancing competitiveness and preventing potential plant closures. This discussion arises as the sector grapples with challenges stemming from the shift to low-carbon technologies, supply chain disruptions, heightened competition from Asia, and a decline in demand for electric vehicles. MEPs will engage with representatives from the Commission and the Hungarian Presidency to explore measures aimed at revitalizing the automotive sector.

The EU automotive industry, a historically significant sector employing 13.8 million people and contributing 8% of European manufacturing value, is currently at a pivotal moment. The transition towards electrification, with all new vehicles mandated to be zero emissions by 2035, alongside digitalization and global competition, necessitates a swift adaptation of business models. In 2023, while the EU produced 14.8 million vehicles, the industry faces the challenge of competing against emerging leaders like China. MEPs are expected to propose a resolution in a future session to address these urgent concerns and secure the future of this vital sector.

The crisis facing the EU’s automotive industry

Parliament evaluates the escalating violence in the Middle East and the latest developments in Lebanon with EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell. This discussion follows the anniversary of the Hamas terrorist attack that resulted in the deaths of 1,200 Israelis on 7 October 2023, and which has since triggered ongoing conflict in Gaza and broader regional instability.

As Israel intensifies ground operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon, around 100 Israeli hostages remain unaccounted for, and casualty numbers in Gaza continue to rise. In response to the conflict, Iran has launched ballistic missiles at Israel. High Representative Borrell has emphasized the EU's commitment to prevent a regional war. MEPs have previously called for an immediate ceasefire, the unconditional release of hostages, and unrestricted humanitarian aid access, with reports from the Gaza Health Ministry indicating that approximately 40,000 Palestinians have died since October 2023 due to Israel's response to the attack by Hamas.

Escalation of violence in the Middle East and the situation in Lebanon

MEPs convene to discuss the priorities for the upcoming October European Council, assessing the latest developments in the ongoing war in Ukraine and the escalating conflict in the Middle East with the Commission and the Hungarian Presidency. As the summit approaches on 17-18 October in Brussels, MEPs will deliberate on how the EU can enhance its support for Ukraine amidst Russian aggression and respond effectively to the ongoing Israeli operations in Gaza and Lebanon, alongside Iran's missile strikes on Israel.

Additionally, EU leaders will address strategies to bolster the European economy's competitiveness, inspired by Mario Draghi’s report advocating for increased public investment and extensive economic reforms. Migration management and border protection will also be key topics on the agenda, reflecting the EU's ongoing commitment to addressing complex challenges within the region.

Preparation of the European Council of 17-18 October 2024

MEPs will engage in a debate with the Commission focused on media pluralism, independent journalism and on combating the rising tide of disinformation. With fake news and coordinated disinformation campaigns increasingly used as tools for political interference the urgency of this discussion is heightened by recent incidents surrounding the June 2024 European elections and various national elections. The surge in disinformation has also been exacerbated by significant events such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the COVID-19 pandemic. In response, Ursula von der Leyen announced the introduction of a new European Democracy Shield aimed at countering foreign information manipulation.

The European Parliament has taken proactive steps to safeguard citizens from disinformation and foreign interference through legislative measures like the anti-SLAPP directive and the Media Freedom Act. The latter aims to protect editorial freedom from political interference while offering enhanced safeguards for journalists and their sources. The EU's broader strategy seeks to address the challenges posed by disinformation by strengthening cooperation among member states, enhancing accountability for online platforms, and establishing a robust regulatory framework under the Digital Services Act. This comprehensive approach aims to preserve democratic integrity and foster public trust amidst an increasingly complex information landscape.

Facing fake news, populism and disinformation in the EU

MEPs engage with the Commission to address the urgent need to combat gender-based violence in Europe. Amid ongoing high-profile trials in Italy and France related to violent crimes against women, discussions will likely emphasize the importance of establishing a common EU definition of consent. MEPs are also expected to request an update on the implementation of the recently adopted EU directive aimed at enhancing protections for victims and preventing violence, particularly domestic violence.

The new legislation includes provisions to prohibit female genital mutilation and forced marriage, along with measures targeting online offenses. With a commitment to prioritizing equality, MEPs will urge the Commission to ensure effective transposition of these rules across member states, highlighting the necessity for accessible healthcare, sheltered accommodations for victims, and enhanced public awareness campaigns regarding consent and non-consensual acts.

Need to fight the systematic problem of gender based violence in Europe

MEPs debate the reintroduction of internal border controls in the Schengen area and its impact on EU free movement in a session with the Commission on Monday. Recent decisions by Germany and other Schengen members to reinstate checks have sparked concerns about the future of the Schengen zone and its ability to maintain open borders.

The reintroduction of internal border controls in a number of Member States and its impact on the Schengen Area

On Monday afternoon, MEPs debate with the Commission the anniversary of the Hamas terrorist attack that killed 1,200 Israelis on 7 October 2023 and triggered the current war in Gaza and wider Middle East destabilisation.

One year after the 7 October terrorist attacks by Hamas

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola meets with British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.

Keir Starmer, leader of the Labour Party from 2020 until 2024 and Prime Minister of the UK since July 2024, has a background as a human rights lawyer and is the former Director of Public Prosecutions.

EP President Roberta Metsola meets with Prime Minister of the UK, Sir Keir Starmer.

The Conference of Presidents will meet to discuss the confirmation hearings of Commissioners-designate, a crucial step in the approval process of the new European Commission. On Tuesday, the Conference of Committee Chairs will finalize the structure and schedule of these hearings, including common questions and the division of responsibilities among parliamentary committees and a proposal will be made to the Conference of Presidents.

The Conference of Presidents, led by the EP President and political group leaders, oversees Parliament's legislative planning, committee responsibilities, and relations with EU institutions. This meeting play a key role in setting the Parliament’s agenda.

On Monday, 30 September 2024, the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) holds its first Monetary Dialogue of the 10th parliamentary term with Christine Lagarde, President of the European Central Bank (ECB). This important session focuses on the ECB's recent monetary policy decisions, following the ECB Governing Council's move on 12 September to lower the key interest rate by 25 basis points, marking a continued shift in policy since June.

In addition to monetary policy, the dialogue will also cover the Capital Markets Union (CMU) and its significance for the ECB's strategies. The Capital Markets Union (CMU) is an initiative aimed at creating a single, integrated capital market across all EU member states. Its primary goal is to make it easier for businesses to access funding, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), by diversifying sources of finance beyond traditional banking systems. The CMU seeks to connect savings more effectively with investment opportunities, promote cross-border investments, and deepen financial integration within the EU.

Economic Dialogue with Christine LAGARDE, ECB President - EP Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola is in New York for the 2024 United Nations General Assembly, actively promoting the EU's global agenda. From the critical importance of international parliamentary cooperation in addressing global challenges and tackling inequalities to supporting sustainable development and highlighting sport’s role in fostering economic and social development, Metsola's presence in New York underscores the European Parliament’s active role in shaping multilateralism, global governance, and sustainable development at the UN General Assembly.

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, to New York (United States)

Pre-session briefing

The European elections are the largest transnational elections in the world. There are some common rules that apply in all EU countries but many details vary by country.


Election days range from Thursday 6 June to Sunday 9 June and it is up to each country to decide when and how they organise the vote.


The number of MEPs elected varies between countries: bigger countries get more seats than smaller ones. Due to changes in the size of the population, some EU countries will get extra seats in the upcoming elections compared to the outgoing Parliament. In total 15 seats will be added.


There are also differences in other aspects of voting, for example regarding the minimum voting age or the rules about voting from abroad.

EU Elections 2024

The European elections are the largest transnational elections in the world. There are some common rules that apply in all EU countries but many details vary by country.


Election days range from Thursday 6 June to Sunday 9 June and it is up to each country to decide when and how they organise the vote.

Map European elections 2024

Online shopping, take-away food, coffee to go... Packaging waste is growing. Find out how much is being produced and how the EU wants to reverse the trend

How to reduce packaging waste in the EU

With war having returned to the European continent, measuring the level of threats to peace, security and democracy around the world – as the 'Normandy Index' does – is more important than ever. The annual Index was presented for the first time at the Normandy Peace Forum in June 2019, as a result of a partnership between the European Parliament and the Region of Normandy. The Index has been designed and prepared by the European Parliamentary Research Service (EPRS), in conjunction with and on the basis of data provided by the Institute for Economics and Peace. This paper sets out the findings of the 2023 exercise, which draws on data compiled in 2022, and explains how the Index can be used to compare peace – defined on the basis of a given country's performance against a range of predetermined threats – across countries and regions. It is complemented by 61 individual country case studies, derived from the Index. The paper forms part of the EPRS contribution to the 2023 Normandy World Peace Foru

Mapping threats to peace and democracy worldwide: Normandy Index 2023

Discover key figures about the repatriation of migrants and proposed changes to EU law.
The EU’s New Pact on Migration and Asylum includes new rules and the revision of existing legislation, such as the Return Directive.
In a draft resolution on the Return Directive adopted in December 2020, MEPs stressed the importance of protecting individual fundamental rights as well as respect for procedural safeguards.

Repatriation: how many migrants in the EU are sent back?

Over the past 30 years the single market has brought unity and opportunities to Europeans.

30 years of EU single market: benefits and challenges

Find out about the top cyber threats in 2022, the most affected sectors and the impact of the war in Ukraine.

The digital transformation has inevitably led to new cybersecurity threats. During the coronavirus pandemic, companies had to adapt to remote working and this created more possibilities for cybercriminals. The war in Ukraine has also affected cybersecurity.

In response to the evolution of cybersecurity threats, Parliament adopted a new EU directive introducing harmonised measures across the EU, including on the protection of essential sectors.

Cybersecurity: main and emerging threats

With fast fashion, the quantity of clothes produced and thrown away has boomed. Find out more about the environmental impact and what the EU is doing about it.

Fast fashion is the constant provision of new styles at very low prices.

To tackle the impact on the environment, the EU wants to reduce textile waste and increase the life cycle and recycling of textiles. This is part of the plan to achieve a circular economy by 2050.

The impact of textile production and waste on the environment

Find out about the economic inequalities that continue to persist between women and men in the EU.

It has been more than 25 years since the adoption of the UN’s Beijing Declaration, which aims to promote equality between men and women. The same goal lies behind the creation of UN Women - dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women - and the inclusion of gender equality in the Sustainable Development Goals.
s
So where do we stand? Progress has been made, but inequality between men and women persists, including on the labour market. On average, women in the EU are paid less than men.

Gender pay gap in Europe: facts and figures

Znovu využít, recyklovat, kompostovat, spálit nebo skládkovat: způsobů, jak se vypořádat s komunálním odpadem, je několik. Země EU se v tom značně liší. Přehledně v naší infografice.

Ročně vznikne v EU 2,5 miliard tun odpadu, a ačkoliv odpad komunální na tom má podíl z jedné desetiny, je velice viditelný. Háček s komunálním odpadem je v tom, že má různé zdroje (zejména domácnosti), stojí za ním různé chování spotřebitelů a má velmi pestrou skladbu. Hledat jednu odpověď na to, jak jeho objem snížit, není snadné.

Přečtěte si více o opatřeních EU pro lepší nakládání s odpady a dosažení oběhového hospodářství do roku 2050.

Nakládání s odpadem v EU: fakta a čísla

Euroscola

Delegation to the Africa-EU Parliamentary Assembly

Committee on Development

DEVE

Plenary session

Committee on Budgetary Control

CONT

Constitutive meeting of Delegations for relations with Iraq, including the EU-Iraq Parliamentary Cooperation Committee

Press conference by Tineke STRIK (Greens/EFA, NL), rapporteur on the situation in Hungary and the rule of law

Constitutive meeting of Delegations for relations with the countries of Southeast Asia and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)

Briefing The Left by Manon AUBRY (The Left,FR) and Martin SCHIRDEWAN (The Left,DE), Co-Presidents

Briefing Greens/EFA by Bas EICKHOUT (Greens/EFA,NL) and Terry REINTKE (Greens/EFA,DE), Co-Presidents

Briefing Renew Europe by Valérie HAYER (Renew,FR), President

Briefing S&D by Iratxe GARCÍA PÉREZ, (S&D,ES), President and Klára DOBREV (S&D, HU)

Delegation to the EU-North Macedonia Joint Parliamentary Committee Constitutive meeting

Delegation for relations with the Korean Peninsula Constitutive meeting

Delegations for relations with Japan

Delegation to the EU-Türkiye Joint Parliamentary Committee Constitutive meeting

Delegations for relations with the countries of South Asia Constitutive meeting

Delegations for relations with Afghanistan Constitutive meeting

Roberta METSOLA, EP President meets with Wolfgang SOBOTKA, President of the Austrian National Council

Roberta METSOLA, EP President meets with Esther LYNCH, ETUC General Secretary

EPRS vent - How speeches can bring trust in democracy

Delegation to the EU-UK Parliamentary Partnership Assembly Constitutive meeting

Delegation to the Euronest Parliamentary Assembly Constitutive meeting

Delegation to the OACPS-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly Constitutive meeting

Delegation for Northern cooperation and for relations with Switzerland and Norway and to the EU-Iceland Joint Parliamentary Committee and the European Economic Area (EEA) Joint Parliamentary Committee Constitutive meeting

Delegation to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Union for the Mediterranean Constitutive meeting

Delegation to the Pacific-EU Parliamentary Assembly Constitutive meeting

Delegations for relations with Canada Constitutive meeting

Delegations for relations with the Mashreq countries Constitutive meeting

Velké online platformy mají v EU povinnost chránit uživatele před dezinformacemi, nezákonným obsahem a nekalými praktikami. 
Musí se řídit pravidly stanovenými v zákoně o digitálních službách, první komplexní legislativě na světě zaměřené na zajištění bezpečného a ​​spravedlivého digitálního prostředí a prosazování svobody a demokracie. 
Během plenární rozpravy v září 2024 diskutovali poslanci Evropského parlamentu s Evropskou komisí o jeho prosazování.   
Více o zákonu o digitálních službách si můžete přečíst zde: https://www.europarl.europa.eu/topics/cs/article/20211209STO19124/eu-digital-markets-act-and-digital-services-act-explained

Jak se digitální pravidla EU provádějí v praxi? 9:16

Poslanci Evropského parlamentu diskutovali o zásadní zprávě, která vyzývá k rychlým krokům ke zvýšení konkurenceschopnosti EU. 
Její autor, bývalý předseda Evropské centrální banky Mario Draghi, v ní říká, že EU zaostává za USA a Čínou v důsledku pomalého růstu, vysokých cen energií a ohrožení bezpečnosti. 
Poslancům ve Štrasburku řekl, že na podporu inovací, ochranu životní úrovně a zachování evropského způsobu života bude zapotřebí dalších 800 miliard eur investic ročně. 
Mnoho poslanců jeho výzvu uvítalo a někteří požadovali větší podporu pro klíčová průmyslová odvětví i zelenou a digitální transformaci. Jiní se vyslovili pro volnější trh a varovali, že opatření zaměřená na boj proti změně klimatu poškozují hospodářský růst.

Draghiho zpráva: Evropský parlament projednává plán na posílení ekonomiky EU

Velké online platformy mají v EU povinnost chránit uživatele před dezinformacemi, nezákonným obsahem a nekalými praktikami. 
Musí se řídit pravidly stanovenými v zákoně o digitálních službách, první komplexní legislativě na světě zaměřené na zajištění bezpečného, ​​spravedlivého digitálního světa a prosazování svobody a demokracie. 
Během plenární rozpravy v září 2024 diskutovali poslanci Evropského parlamentu s Evropskou komisí o jeho prosazování.   
Více o zákonu o digitálních službách si můžete přečíst zde: https://www.europarl.europa.eu/topics/en/article/20211209STO19124/eu-digital-markets-act-and-digital-services-act-explained

Jak se digitální pravidla EU provádějí v praxi?

Od chvíle, kdy Rusko v roce 2022 zahájilo plošnou invazi Ukrajiny, stojí Evropská unie vytrvale na straně ukrajinského lidu, přijímá uprchlíky, poskytuje obranné vybavení i finanční pomoc. Válka má zničující dopad na celou ukrajinskou společnost a mnoha mladým Ukrajincům vážně narušila možnost vzdělávat se. 
 
Za podpory finančních prostředků EU vytváří český vysokoškolský učitel informatiky Kamil platformu “Digitální univerzity”, která umožní ukrajinským studentům pokračovat ve studiu online.
Ve studiu pokračuje také Olena, a to v Evropské unii jako studentka programu Erasmus+ a mladá evropská ambasadorka v polském Gdaňsku.

Vzdělání pro Ukrajince v době války: Kamil a Olena – 9:16

Od chvíle, kdy Rusko v roce 2022 zahájilo plošnou invazi Ukrajiny, stojí Evropská unie vytrvale na straně ukrajinského lidu, přijímá uprchlíky, poskytuje obranné vybavení i finanční pomoc. Válka má zničující dopad na celou ukrajinskou společnost a mnoha mladým Ukrajincům vážně narušila možnost vzdělávat se. 

Za podpory finančních prostředků EU vytváří český vysokoškolský učitel informatiky Kamil platformu ”Digitální univerzity”, která umožní ukrajinským studentům pokračovat ve studiu online.

Ve studiu pokračuje také Olena, a to v Evropské unii jako studentka programu Erasmus+ a mladá evropská ambasadorka v polském Gdaňsku.

Vzdělání pro Ukrajince v době války: Kamil a Olena

Evropský parlament povzbuzuje lidi z celé EU, aby se zapojili do demokratického procesu.

Together.eu je komunita s podporou Evropského parlamentu, kde se můžete setkávat – online i offline – s lidmi, kterým záleží na demokracii, a vyjadřovat se k evropským tématům.

Stejně jako Mireya v Madridu a Cille v Kodani se dobrovolníci pro together.eu z celé EU setkávají, diskutují, sdílejí nápady a pořádají akce k upozorňování na to, co instituce EU dělají pro občany a proč je důležité demokratické zapojení.

Seznamte se s komunitou a přidejte se k together.eu.

Zapojte se do podpory demokracie v EU! Seznamte se: Mireya a Cille

Co je lepšího než povídat si o demokracii? Povídat si o demokracii nad kávou zdarma!
Seznamte se: Cille, dobrovolnice pro together.eu, která v Kodani zřídila stánek s kávou na podporu demokratického zapojení v EU. 
Spolu se svým týmem po celý rok pořádá tematické akce pro EU a povídá si s lidmi o tom, co pro ně EU může udělat a jaký mají instituce EU vliv na každého z nás. 
Together.eu je komunita lidí, kterým záleží na EU a její budoucnosti. Svou podporou komunity together.eu Evropský parlament povzbuzuje lidi z celé EU, aby se zapojili do demokratického procesu.

Podpora demokratického zapojení s Cille, dobrovolnicí pro together.eu – 9:16

Ruská invaze na Ukrajinu vyvolala v celé Evropě energetickou krizi a vysokou inflaci. Evropský parlament chce zajistit, aby EU byla v budoucnu dostatečně odolná vůči případným dalším krizím. Proto podporuje odvážné vizionářské projekty, jejichž cílem je posílit naše ekonomiky a společnosti.

Erik pomáhal švédským společnostem Amokabel a Bennesveds Åkeri vybudovat první soběstačnou vodíkovou čerpací stanici v zemi: Uppvidinge Vätgas. Ta nabízí čisté palivo vyráběné pomocí místní větrné energie. 

Hannah žije v Irsku a je specialistka na emise oxidu uhličitého ve společnosti Bord na Móna, která se po těžbě rašeliny na palivo stala lídrem v oblasti výroby čisté energie. Pomáhá při obnově místních rašelinišť, ve kterých se může ukládat obrovské množství uhlíku a přispívají tak k plnění klimatických cílů EU.

Podobné iniciativy financované z Nástroje EU pro oživení a odolnost jsou základem silnější a pružnější Evropy.

Budování hospodářství EU pro budoucnost: seznamte se s Erikem a Hannah

Ruská invaze na Ukrajinu vyvolala v celé Evropě energetickou krizi a vysokou inflaci. Evropský parlament chce zajistit, aby EU byla v budoucnu dostatečně odolná vůči případným dalším krizím. Proto podporuje odvážné vizionářské projekty, jejichž cílem je posílit naše ekonomiky a společnosti.

Erik pomáhal švédským společnostem Amokabel a Bennesveds Åkeri vybudovat první soběstačnou vodíkovou čerpací stanici v zemi: Uppvidinge Vätgas. Ta nabízí čisté palivo vyráběné pomocí místní větrné energie. 

Hannah žije v Irsku a je specialistka na emise oxidu uhličitého ve společnosti Bord na Móna, která se po těžbě rašeliny na palivo stala lídrem v oblasti výroby čisté energie. Pomáhá při obnově místních rašelinišť, ve kterých se může ukládat obrovské množství uhlíku a přispívají tak k plnění klimatických cílů EU.
 
Podobné iniciativy financované z Nástroje EU pro oživení a odolnost jsou základem silnější a pružnější Evropy.

Budování hospodářství EU pro budoucnost: seznamte se, tohle je Erik a Hannah – 9:16

V červnu se miliony Evropanů zúčastnily největších nadnárodních voleb na světě. Nyní jsou již jejich hlasy sečteny a noví europoslanci zvoleni, a tak se pojďme podívat, jak bude nový Evropský parlament vypadat. Kolik poslanců Evropského parlamentu je v jednotlivých politických skupinách? Kolik poslanců Evropského parlamentu připadá na jednotlivé země? Koho zvolili do funkce předsedkyně Evropského parlamentu a Evropské komise?

Jak vypadá složení nového Evropského parlamentu?

V červnu se miliony Evropanů zúčastnily největších nadnárodních voleb na světě. Nyní jsou již jejich hlasy sečteny a noví europoslanci zvoleni, a tak se pojďme podívat, jak bude nový Evropský parlament vypadat. 
 
Kolik poslanců Evropského parlamentu je v jednotlivých politických skupinách? Kolik poslanců Evropského parlamentu připadá na jednotlivé země? Koho zvolili do funkce předsedkyně Evropského parlamentu a Evropské komise?

Jak vypadá složení nového Evropského parlamentu? – 9:16

V červenci 2024 potvrdil Evropský parlament Ursulu von der Leyenovou jako předsedkyni Komise na druhé funkční období. Povede tým komisařů – jednoho z každého členského státu, který bude navrhovat zákony EU a bude dohlížet na jejich provádění během příštích pěti let.    
 
Zvolení předsedy Evropské komise je jednou z prvních úloh Parlamentu po evropských volbách. 
    
Hlavy států EU nominují kandidáta na předsedu Komise s přihlédnutím k výsledkům evropských voleb.    
   
Kandidát musí být schválen Parlamentem a získat v tajném hlasování hlasy nadpoloviční většiny poslanců.   
   
Pokud kandidát nezíská požadovanou většinu, musí Evropská rada do měsíce navrhnout náhradního kandidáta.   
   
Více se dozvíte na: https://elections.europa.eu/cs/commission-president/

Evropský parlament znovu zvolil von der Leyenovou do funkce předsedkyně Komise

Kdo je Roberta Metsolová, předsedkyně Evropského parlamentu, která byla v červenci 2024 do této funkce zvolena již podruhé? Jak byla vybrána a jaká bude její úloha? 
 
Evropský parlament si jednou za dva a půl roku vybírá představitele, který jej bude zastupovat při jednání s ostatními institucemi EU i s celým světem. Předseda nebo předsedkyně Parlamentu se volí v tajném hlasování během prvního plenárního zasedání po volbách.
 
Post získá kandidát, který obdrží absolutní většinu odevzdaných hlasů. 
 
Předsedkyně rovněž řídí činnost parlamentu, předsedá plenárním zasedáním a prohlašuje rozpočet EU za definitivně schválený. Součástí této funkce je také prezentace stanoviska Evropského parlamentu na začátku každého zasedání Evropské rady. 
 
Více se dozvíte v našem článku: https://elections.europa.eu/cs/parliament-president/

Roberta Metsolová: seznamte se s předsedkyní Evropského parlamentu

V roce 2015 německá kancléřka Angela Merkelová a francouzský prezident François Hollande vyzvali evropské státy, aby sdíleli odpovědnost za přijímání žadatelů o azyl. Evropská unie se ten rok potýkala s nevídanou migrační vlnou, kdy stovky tisíc lidí nelegálně přešlo hranici EU, přičemž mnoho z nich utíkalo před válkou v Sýrii. Většina z nich zamířila do Německa a do několika jiných zemí. Během společného projevu v Evropském parlamentu, který se zapsal do historie, vyzvali Merkelová a Hollande ke společnému postupu při řešení klíčových příčin krize. *Celý projev si můžete prohlédnout na multimediálním kanálu Evropského parlamentu: http://epfacebook.eu/SpeechMerkelHollande

Projevy Merkelové a Hollanda ohledně migrační krize | Evropský Parlament

Pelagie uprchla z Demokratické republiky Kongo ve strachu o svůj život. S pomocí charitativní organizace Refugees Welcome Italia našla nový domov v ŘíměTodor je právník v bulharské nevládní organizaci Center for Legal Aid Voice, která pomáhá uprchlíkům s integrací a poskytuje jim právní podporu.Prostřednictvím iniciativ, jako je Azylový, migrační a integrační fond, pomáhá EU migrantům a žadatelům o azyl a zemím EU, které je přijímají.Evropský parlament podporuje celoevropský přístup k problémům spojeným s migrací.

Řešení výzev spojených s migrací v EU: Seznamte se s Pelagie a Todorem

Meet Mireya, a together.eu volunteer whose main goal in the last few months has been to spread the word on EU elections!

Everyone’s voice counts in the upcoming vote, this is why, with her teammates, she organised an event to let people air their concerns, hopes and dreams for the EU.

Together.eu is a community of people who care about the EU and its future. By meeting, discussing and organising, people like Mireya and other together.eu volunteer can exchange views with like-minded people.

Getting the vote out in Madrid with Mireya, a together.eu volunteer! - 9:16 EE24

A global pandemic, war in Ukraine and a cost-of-living crisis: the 2019-2024 European Parliament stepped up as people faced unprecedented challenges.

Parliament responded with measures that strengthened the EU and its economy while standing up for European values.

June’s European elections will decide how Parliament will deal with the challenges of the future.

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