Kennen Sie die Europäische Zentralbank und die Europäische Investitionsbank? Wissen Sie, wofür sie zuständig sind? Was haben sie gemeinsam – und was nicht? In diesem Podcast geht es um die beiden wichtigsten Finanzinstitute der EU. Wir sehen uns an, welche gemeinsamen Ziele sie verfolgen und worin sie sich unterscheiden.

Die Banken der EU

Kurznachrichten – 18/07/2025 - Deutsch

At a glance: an agreement on more ESF+ funding to boost skills development and address new challenges; a simpler tax system to benefit EU businesses and citizens; and MEPs encourage Ukraine to maintain its pace on implementing EU-related reforms.

Kurznachrichten – 17/07/2025 - Deutsch

At a glance: Parliament reiterates its call for a more ambitious EU long-term budget; and Parliament’s committees hold two public hearings, one on the issue of vacant housing in the EU and the other on generative AI and democracy.

Kurznachrichten – 16/07/2025 - Deutsch

At a glance: Denmark’s government ministers present their priorities in meetings with Parliament’s committees; the Subcommittee on Human Rights discusses the human rights situation in China ahead of the EU-China Summit in Beijing; and the Commission’s proposal to amend the European Climate Law.

Kurznachrichten – 15/07/2025 - Deutsch

At a glance:  Parliament’s Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development votes on new rules to better protect EU farmers; NATO and EU lawmakers are in Brussels for a seminar on tackling hybrid threats; MEPs debate future EU anti-racism strategy in key civil liberties meeting.

Kurznachrichten – 14/07/2025 - Deutsch

At a glance: MEPs place the common agricultural policy at the heart of the next EU long-term budget; Parliament condemns Russia’s continued war crimes in Ukraine; and MEPs propose ways to manage the influx of substandard goods from non-EU web shops.

Kurznachrichten – 11/07/2025 - Deutsch

At a glance: Bulgaria will adopt the euro from 1 January 2026; Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen outlined Denmark’s priorities for its six-month EU Council presidency; and Parliament approved a new law to secure gas supplies and tackle speculation.

Kurznachrichten – 10/07/2025 - Deutsch

At a glance: Parliament’s July plenary session is under way. We will look at the debate on EU-China relations; the commemoration of the 30th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide; and new rules for a more sustainable automotive sector.

Kurznachrichten – 09/07/2025 - Deutsch

Eine gute und regelmäßige interparlamentarische Zusammenarbeit innerhalb der EU ist ausgesprochen wichtig. Das Europäische Parlament und die Parlamente der Mitgliedstaaten entscheiden gemeinsam, wie sie diese Zusammenarbeit gestalten und fördern. In diesem Podcast erfahren Sie mehr darüber.

Die Zusammenarbeit zwischen dem Europäischen Parlament und den Parlamenten der Mitgliedstaaten

At a glance: Parliament’s July plenary session is under way. MEPs will debate and vote on distributing EUR 280 million of flood relief to Austria, Czechia, Poland, Slovakia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Moldova; controlling the influx of parcels from outside the EU; and stepping up preparations for the wildfire season.

Kurznachrichten – 08/07/2025 - Deutsch

Die Delegationen des Europäischen Parlaments sind Gruppen von Mitgliedern, die offizielle Beziehungen zu Parlamenten, Regionen und Organisationen in Drittstaaten unterhalten. Sie pflegen die weltweiten Kontakte des Parlaments und bauen sie aus. Außerdem verhelfen sie der EU auf der Weltbühne zu mehr Geltung.

Die Rolle der Delegationen des Europäischen Parlaments

Wussten Sie, dass die Abgeordneten des Europäischen Parlaments nicht nur zu den Plenartagungen zusammenkommen? Auch außerhalb der Tagungswochen treffen sie sich regelmäßig, und zwar in den sogenannten parlamentarischen Ausschüssen. Davon gibt es viele, und jeder einzelne ist auf einen bestimmten Bereich spezialisiert. In dieser Folge erfahren Sie mehr über die Arbeit in den Ausschüssen und darüber, wie sie funktionieren.

Die parlamentarischen sschüsse

Zu den Aufgaben der Mitglieder des Parlaments gehört viel mehr als nur an den Debatten und Abstimmungen im Plenum teilzunehmen. Ein Mitglied kann zum Beispiel dazu bestimmt werden, Berichte über den Standpunkt des Parlaments zu Gesetzesvorschlägen oder anderen Themen zu verfassen: Das ist die Aufgabe einer Berichterstatterin bzw. eines Berichterstatters.

Was machen die Berichterstatterinnen und Berichterstatter?

1989 wurde Jozef Maďar mit einem jugoslawischen Fernsehteam in die Tschechoslowakei geschickt, um dort die Proteste für Freiheit und Demokratie zu filmen. Hier nimmt er uns mit auf eine Reise durch die Straßen von Bratislava.

Die Schlüssel zur Freiheit – ein Kameramann und die Samtene Revolution in der Tschechoslowakei

At a glance: Parliament’s July plenary session starts today. MEPs assess the latest developments in the Middle East; a debate on the Commission’s proposal for a new 2040 EU climate target; and the Parliament and Commission Presidents discuss the next long-term EU budget.

Kurznachrichten – 07/07/2025 - Deutsch

On 1 January 1999 a new currency comes into existence - the Euro. By the middle of 2002 it replaced most national currencies within the European Community, bringing about full Economic and Monetary Union.

The European Parliament is the body through which the ESCB and the ECB are democratically accountable; monitor and debate the development of economic and fiscal policy.

20th anniversary of the Euro

In September 2018, the Article 7(1) TEU procedure was triggered. In this case, the European Parliament voted a resolution calling the Council to determine the existence of a clear risk of a serious breach of EU values in relation to Hungary. This resolution was preceded by numerous others adopted by the Parliament between March 2011 and May 2017, and it made reference to concerns related mainly to judicial independence, freedom of expression, corruption, rights of minorities, and the situation of migrants and refugees in Hungary.

Under Article 2 TEU, the EU is founded on the shared values of democracy, the rule of law and respect for fundamental rights (DRF). Article 7 TEU establishes two mechanisms (preventive and sanctions) to enforce EU values in cases of systemic violations and to sanction Member States departing from them.

See also the previous <a href="https://multimedia.europarl.europa.eu/en/rule-of-law-in-hungary-8th-parliamentary-term_5702_pk">package</a> on the rule of law in Hungary.

Rule of law in Hungary (2019-2020)

Rule of law is laid down in the EU treaties as one of the values on which the Union is based. It means that governments should be bound by law&nbsp;not to take arbitrary decisions, and that citizens should be able to challenge their actions in independent courts.

It also enshrines the fight against corruption, which unfairly favours some to the detriment of others, and the safeguarding of media freedom, thus ensuring that the public is properly informed about the work of government.

The EU has existing tools at its disposal to protect the rule of law. In&nbsp;September 2020, the European Commission published the first annual rule of law&nbsp;report monitoring both positive and negative developments with regard to the rule of law in all member states. In July 2021 the second edition of the report was published.

There is also&nbsp;dialogue on the rule of law in the Council.

If the Commission deems that a member state is violating EU law, it can start infringement proceedings that may lead to financial sanctions determined by the European Court of Justice. Another procedure, under Article 7 of the Treaty of the European Union, allows the Council to make recommendations or decide by unanimity on sanctions against a member state, including the suspension of membership rights.&nbsp;MEPs have argued that existing tools are insufficient.

​Under the new regulation, effective from January 2021, EU budget payments can be witheld from countries where established breaches of the rule of law compromise management of EU funds. At the same time, the EU ensures that final beneficiaries do not end up paying the bill.

Rule of law

During their last visit to Budapest (Monday 14 - Wednesday 16 April), MEPs looked into topics related to the state of <a href="https://www.europarl.europa.eu/topics/en/article/20210325STO00802/eu-values-explained-in-one-minute" rel="noopener" target="_blank">EU values</a>, including the rule of law and fundamental rights - such as independence of the judiciary, checks and balances, media freedom, academic freedom, transparency and anti-corruption measures, the situation of civil society, the rights of LGBTIQ persons and the freedom of peaceful assembly. They met with government representatives, members of the Hungarian National Assembly, representatives of the judiciary, independent and local authorities, unions, liberal professions and stakeholders from civil society across all areas of concern.

Representatives of five political groups representing different political views, managed to receive a first-hand account of the latest developments. It will help to formulate the Parliament’s stance and communicate it to the Council in the ongoing Article 7 TEU procedure. While the delegation is thankful to the participants of the meetings, it expressed regret that several meetings the delegation requested, with the Government (Prime Minister, Ministers of Justice and of the Interior), the judiciary (Constitutional Court, Curia) and the Commissioner for Fundamental Rights, did not take place.

Rule of law in Hungary

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

In a&nbsp;joint statement&nbsp;on 10 May, the leaders of the EPP, S&amp;D, Renew Europe, Greens/EFA and The Left political groups in the European Parliament, expressed serious concern over the threat of further military escalation by the Israeli government in the Gaza Strip. They also denounced all violations of international law in the conflict, including statements pointing towards forced territorial or demographic changes in the area.

Thousands have died since Israel resumed its strikes on Gaza on 18 March, following the collapse of a two-month ceasefire. The UN has warned that the 10-month-long Israeli blockade of food and medicine deliveries into Gaza has exposed around 2.1 million Palestinians to a&nbsp;"critical risk"&nbsp;of famine. On Sunday, 18 May, Israel announced it would allow a "basic amount of food" to enter Gaza.

It is estimated that Israel has killed more than 53,000 Palestinians since October 2023, in response to the attack by Hamas in which approximately 1,200 people were killed and around 250 people abducted.&nbsp; MEPs have adopted a number of resolutions since the October 2023 Hamas attack, calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire and expressing serious concerns about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.&nbsp;Some 58 hostages remain in Gaza, up to 23 of whom are believed to be alive.

Situation in Israel and Gaza

Situation in the Middle East escalated after Israel launched a series of strikes on Iran in&nbsp;&nbsp;"Operation Rising lion".&nbsp;Since then Iran reposted and both countries continue to fire missiles daily with rising number of casualties on both sides. The US has joined Israel later by bombarding three nuclear sites in Iran spraking fears of spreading the conflict even further.&nbsp;&nbsp;EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and Polish EU Affairs Minister Adam Szłapka for the Council presidency discussed&nbsp;the situation in the Middle East with MEPs during the plenary session in June.&nbsp;This debate&nbsp;focused on the risk of further instability in the Middle East following the Israel-Iran military escalation, the review of the EU-Israel Association Agreement and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza

Situation in the Middle East

The European Council will take place on June 26-27, 2025. EU leaders are meeting in Brussels to discuss&nbsp;geoeconomic challenges&nbsp;and the ongoing developments in&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Middle East.&nbsp;European defence and&nbsp;security, migration, preparedness&nbsp;and internal security are also on the agenda.

European Council, 26-27 June 2025

July 2025 marks&nbsp;the 30th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide, the largest mass murder in Europe since World War II, in the XXth century. The massacre in Srebrenica took place in July 1995, when around 8,000 Bosnian Muslims were murdered by the Bosnian-Serb army. The victims were mostly men, ranging from teenagers to the elderly. In 2007, the International Court of Justice ruled that the atrocities at Srebrenica constituted genocide. Bosnian-Serb army commander Ratko Mladić was given a life sentence after UN courts convicted him of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes in 2017.

Srebrenica genocide anniversary

Equality and non-discrimination are core EU values and fundamental rights, enshrined in the Treaties and in the Charter of Fundamental Rights. However, research by the EU's Fundamental Rights Agency (FRA) shows that discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, non-binary, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ) people persists across the EU.

The Commission presented the 'LGBTIQ Equality Strategy 2020-2025' on 12 November 2020. This was&nbsp;the first ever full EU strategy in this area and is intended to build on the lessons learned from the European Commission's previous actions to advance LGBTI equality from 2015-2019.

In recent years, social acceptance of LGBTIQ people has declined in some Member States. Gaps remain in the EU's legislative framework for combating discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity and sex characteristics. Combating discrimination has become part of EU internal and external policies, and is the subject of numerous resolutions of the European Parliament. In response to the backsliding of LGBTIQ rights in some EU countries, notably Poland and Hungary, MEPs&nbsp;declared the EU an “LGBTIQ Freedom Zone”.

In 2021 Parliament “condemned&nbsp;in the strongest possible terms” the anti-LGBTIQ legislation and denounced&nbsp;the dismantling of democracy and the rule of law in Hungary.&nbsp;In a resolution&nbsp;MEPs described the Hungarian law as being in clear breach of fundamental rights enshrined in the EU Charter of fundamental rights, the Treaties and EU internal market legislation.

LGBTIQ freedom in the EU

Italy is a parliamentary republic with a head of government - the prime minister - appointed by the president and a head of state - the president. The Parliament is composed of 2 houses: the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate of the Republic.

Italy is a member of the eurozone since 1 January 1999 and of the Schengen area since 26 October 1997. There are 75&nbsp;members of the European Parliament from Italy.

EU - Italy

Mr TAJANI was elected President of the European Parliament on 17 January 2017. 

The President chairs the plenary sittings of Parliament, the Conference of the Presidents of Political Groups and the Bureau of Parliament. The President is responsible for the application of the Rules of Procedure of Parliament, and, to this end, oversees all the activities of Parliament and its bodies. The President represents Parliament in all legal matters. He addresses the European Council prior to each of its meetings, stating Parliament's viewpoint on the subjects on the agenda in the framework of a debate with the heads of state and government. The President represents Parliament in its international relations, and, in this connection, undertakes official visits within and outside the EU. The President signs the EU budget into being following Parliament's vote on it at second reading. During the procedure, the President chairs the EP/Council conciliation delegations. The President may, under the EP/Council codecision procedure, chair the EP/Council conciliation committee.

Antonio TAJANI, EP President's Agenda

This package contains the events between 1st July 2019 and 31 December 2020. For latest events, see related links.

The ECB President takes part in a regular monetary dialogue with Parliament's Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs.

The European Central Bank (ECB) is the central institution of the Economic and Monetary Union and has been responsible for conducting monetary policy for the euro area since 1 January 1999. The ECB and the national central banks of all EU Member States constitute the European System of Central Banks.

On 2 July 2019, Christine Lagarde was nominated by the European Council to succeed Mario Draghi as President of the European Central Bank on 1 November 2019.

Monetary dialogue (2019-2020)

The President of the European Central Bank (ECB) takes part four times a year in a monetary dialogue with Parliament's Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) to report on monetary policy and answer question from MEPs.&nbsp;Although guaranteed independence under the Treaty, the ECB is accountable for its actions towards the European Parliament, and more precisely the ECON Committee. The European Central Bank is the central institution of the Economic and Monetary Union and has been responsible for conducting monetary policy for the euro area since 1 January 1999 The ECB and the national central banks of all EU Member States constitute the European System of Central Banks.

Monetary dialogue

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

MEPs in the Budgets Committee discuss with Commissioner Piotr Serafin the proposal for the post 2027 EU long-term budget, i.e. the multi-annual financial framework (MFF) beyond 2027 and own resources, right after its adoption by the Commission

BUDG- Meeting with Commissioner Piotr Serafin on MFF beyond 2027 and Own Resources

Denmark’s ministers present their priorities in meetings with parliamentary committees. Denmark holds the rotating Presidency of the Council of the EU until the end of 2025

Priorities of the Danish Presidency

In two debates on Wednesday morning, MEPs assess the outcome of June’s EU summit with Presidents Costa and von der Leyen. On Tuesday morning, they will  and look ahead to the EU-China summit.

At their meeting in Brussels, EU heads of state or government focussed on ways to bolster EU competitiveness. They also discussed how the EU can continue supporting Kyiv against Russia’s aggression, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, how to strengthen the EU’s defence capabilities, and the EU’s response to the escalation in the Middle East. Leaders also discussed migration and the situation in the Western Balkans.

Plenary debate on the outcome of June’s EU summit with Presidents Costa and von der Leyen

MEPs assess the latest developments in the Middle East, in particular in Iran, and what the EU can do to help restore peace.

Parliament reviews the latest events in the region, including the US airstrikes against Iranian nuclear facilities at the end of June 2025, and Israel’s earlier attacks on Iranian targets, which led to Iran launching missiles at Israeli cities. In a plenary debate on 16 June, the EU High Representative, Kaja Kallas, said that Iran, as the main source of regional instability, must never be allowed to acquire a nuclear weapon. She also defended diplomacy as the best way to address Iran's nuclear programme in the long run.

MEPs are also expected to repeat their calls for an end to the deplorable humanitarian situation in Gaza, for a new ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, and for a hostage release agreement.

Plenary debate on the situation in Middle East

Confeence of Presidents: 

Exchange of views with Ms VON DER LEYEN, President of the European Commission, on the post-2027 Multiannual Financial Framework

Conference of Presidents: Exchange of views with Ursula VON DER LEYEN, EC President on the post-2027 Multiannual Financial Framework

On Tuesday, MEPs adopt their opinion on Bulgaria’s bid to become the newest member of the euro area from 1 January 2026.

The Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee adopted a favourable opinion on 24 June, with 46 votes in favour, 3 against and 5 abstentions. This opinion has now been tabled for a vote in plenary.

With Bulgaria joining the euro area, 21 of the EU’s 27 member countries will have the euro as their currency.

A press conference with the rapporteur Eva Maydell (EPP, Bulgaria) is held at 14:00 CET on Tuesday in the European Parliament’s Daphne Caruana Galizia press conference room in Strasbourg.

Vote on the adoption by Bulgaria of the euro on 1st January 2025

On Tuesday at 10.30, MEPs discuss  Denmark’s six-month Council Presidency agenda, which started on 1 July, with Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen.

Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will also take part in the debate. 

The Danish government says the EU is facing  new international challenges, geopolitical  and economic competition, and rising levels of conflict. The presidency’s slogan, ‘A strong Europe in a changing world’, expresses Denmark’s plan to work towards  a resilient  EU that takes responsibility for its own security. Denmark wants the EU to work closely and harmoniously  with NATO, and support Ukraine’s fight for peace and freedom. It also wants to push for a competitive Europe, which improves conditions for businesses while simultaneously driving growth through the green transition necessary to combat climate change.

Plenary debate on the presentation of the programme of activities of the Danish Presidency

MEPs discuss  Denmark’s six-month Council Presidency agenda, which started on 1 July, with Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen.

Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also takes part in the debate. 

The Danish government says the EU is facing  new international challenges, geopolitical  and economic competition, and rising levels of conflict. The presidency’s slogan, ‘A strong Europe in a changing world’, expresses Denmark’s plan to work towards  a resilient  EU that takes responsibility for its own security. Denmark wants the EU to work closely and harmoniously  with NATO, and support Ukraine’s fight for peace and freedom. It also wants to push for a competitive Europe, which improves conditions for businesses while simultaneously driving growth through the green transition necessary to combat climate change.

Roberta METSOLA, EP President meets with Mette Frederiksen, Danish Prime Minister

EU-China relations

In a debate with Council and Commission, MEPs outline their expectations for the upcoming EU-China summit, set to take place in China in July and which will mark 50 years of bilateral diplomatic relations. They will also discuss how to tackle China’s critical raw materials export restrictions. Plenary will vote on a resolution on the latter on Thursday.

Plenary debate on the expectations for the upcoming EU-China summit

Following the tabling of a motion of censure against the European Commission, plenary holds a debate and the subsequent vote on Thursday. 

According to Parliament’s Rules of Procedure, a motion of censure in respect of the Commission may be submitted to the President by one 10th of the component Members of Parliament, i.e. 72 MEPs.

President Metsola announced on Wednesday to the Conference of Presidents (a meeting of the European Parliament President and political group leaders) that an admissible motion had been filed, and asked group leaders to inform their members. The plenary debate - one round of political group speakers - is scheduled for Monday, and the vote, by roll call, will take place on Thursday. To be adopted, a motion must secure a two-thirds majority of the votes cast, representing a majority of the component Members of Parliament.

Plenary debate on a motion of censure against the Commission

On Monday, Parliament President Roberta Metsola makes a statement on the 30th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide, the  largest mass murder in Europe since World War II.

Her speech will be followed by interventions from a speaker from each political group.

The massacre in Srebrenica took place in July 1995, when around 8,000 Bosnian Muslims were murdered by the Bosnian-Serb army . The victims were mostly men, ranging from teenagers to the elderly. In 2007, the International Court of Justice ruled that the atrocities at Srebrenica constituted genocide. 

Bosnian-Serb army commander Ratko Mladić was given a life sentence after UN courts convicted him of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes in 2017.

Statements: 30th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide

Last-minute briefing on July Plenary session

The EP’s Press Service holds a press briefing with Parliament’s political group spokespersons 

Plenary preparations. Political groups will prepare for the 7 - 10 July plenary session, where MEPs will review the June European Council and look ahead at the upcoming EU-China summit. They will debate the priorities of the Danish Council Presidency which starts on 1 July with Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. MEPs will also discuss the situation in the Middle East, in particular developments in Iran, the security of energy supply in the EU, as well as the EU’s preparedness in light of the upcoming wildfire season. They will debate and vote on the EU accession progress of Georgia, Albania, Bosnia and Hercegovina and North Macedonia. There will also be votes on Bulgaria’s adoption of the Euro on 1 January 2026, and on the human cost of Russia’s war against Ukraine and the urgent need to end Russian aggression.

Pre-session briefing on July Plenary session

EP President Roberta Metsola presides over a Conference of Presidents meeting with the President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, and NATO Secretary General, Mark Rutte.

Conference of Presidents with Antonio Costa and Mark Rutte

The Budapest Pride march 2025 takes place in Budapest (Hungary) on Saturday 28 June 2025 

The Budapest Pride March takes place with the participation of Nicolae ȘTEFĂNUȚĂ, EP Vice-President, and EP Members

Budapest Pride march 2025

The Marisa Bellisario Award, often called the "Oscar for Women" in Italy, is a prestigious Italian award presented annually to women who have excelled in various fields like management, science, the economy, and social life, both nationally and internationally. It was established in 1989 in memory of Marisa Bellisario, a pioneering female manager. The award ceremony takes place in Rome. 
The award is given by the Marisa Bellisario Foundation and Confindustria, and it recognizes women who have made significant contributions and achievements in their respective fields.

Roberta METSOLA, EP President receives the ‘Mela d’Oro’ award during the 37th Edition of the Marisa Bellisario Foundation Award Ceremony

European Council, 26-27 June 2025: Provisional agenda: 

1. Adoption of the agenda
2. Ukraine
3. Middle East
4. European defence and security
5. EU in the world
6. Competitiveness
7. Migration

European Council meeting: 26-27 June 2025

Development/Bill Gates. The Development Committee hosts Bill Gates, Chair of the Gates Foundation, to discuss development assistance and innovation as key drivers for improving health and living standards in the Global South.

DEVE: Exchange of views with Bill Gates, Chair of the Gates Foundation

REGI - Exchange of views on the EC proposal for the Multi-annual Financial Framework (MFF) post 2027

The European Commission is the executive body of the European Union. Under the Treaties, its tasks are to 'promote the general interest of the Union', without prejudice to individual Member States, to 'ensure the application of the Treaties' and measures adopted under them, for instance through taking infringement measures against Member States who do not correctly implement EU legislation, and to 'execute the budget'. It also holds a near monopoly on the right of legislative initiative, alone proposing virtually all EU legislation to the European Parliament and the Council of the EU. The College of Commissioners is currently composed of 27 individuals: the President, Ursula von der Leyen, 6 Executive Vice-Presidents and 20 Commissioners. The Executive Vice-Presidents have a dual role; they manage a specific portfolio and coordinate efforts across the main priorities of the Commission's political agenda. The other Commissioners are each responsible for a specific policy area, working under the guidance of the Executive Vice-Presidents. The table below shows for each Commissioner the Vice-President(s) guiding work on their portfolio (in certain cases, Commissioners work directly under the guidance of the President).

European Commission: Political make-up of the College of Commissioners

The Council of the European Union – often referred to as the Council of Ministers, or simply the Council – forms one part of the legislature and the budgetary authority of the Union. The Council and European Parliament together adopt much of the EU's legislation and the Union's annual budget, on the basis of proposals put forward by the executive, the European Commission. The Council also takes decisions on specific areas of EU action, in particular in common foreign and security policy (CFSP), where it seeks to coordinate Member States' positions, and concludes – subject to the consent of the Parliament – international agreements, usually negotiated by the Commission on the basis of a mandate from the Council. The Council of the EU is distinct from the European Council, which is a separate institution made up of the Heads of State or Government of the Member States. The European Council is responsible for defining the general political directions and priorities for the Union, but does not have formal legislative functions.

Rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union

As every year, two annual procedures are central to the budgetary work of the European Parliament and the other institutions – agreeing on the 2026 budget, and granting discharge for the implementation of the 2024 budget. In addition, in 2025, the process of agreeing the next multiannual financial framework (MFF) for the years from 2028 will also get under way. This timeline sets out the main steps in the three procedures up to end 2025.

Timeline for the three key EU budgetary procedures up to end 2025

The widespread use of military drones spans reconnaissance, strikes, logistics and naval operations, with both state and non-state players increasingly relying on unmanned systems. The European Union (EU) has prioritised drone development and countermeasures, funding and coordinating research and capability development through the European Defence Fund and Permanent Structured Cooperation. The EU is also fostering synergies between the civilian and the defence sectors, addressing strategic dependencies and collaborating with NATO. Meanwhile, drone regulation remains fragmented: civilian drones are subject to comprehensive EU rules, while military drone use falls under international law. The European Parliament has called for transparency, adherence to international law and a ban on LAWS, while supporting defence innovation and proposing an EU drone package to stimulate joint procurement and industry participation.

Most common drone uses

Enforcement of the Digital Markets Act is under way. The European Commission has launched formal proceedings against three major providers of core platform services. The Commission's preliminary findings suggest breaches of EU rules. To date, two of these preliminary findings have been confirmed, resulting in non-compliance decisions and fines for the companies in April 2025.

Digital Markets Act enforcement: Gatekeeper designation

Pollination is a fundamental process for the survival of our ecosystems and ultimately, of our planet. Nearly 90 % of the world's wild flowering plant species depend on pollination, along with more than 75 % of the world's food crops and 35 % of global agricultural land. Without pollination, many interconnected species and processes functioning within the ecosystem would collapse.

Bees and pollinators

EU competence does not extend to recognition of marital or family status. In this area, national regulations vary, with some Member States offering same-sex couples the right to marry, some allowing alternative forms of registration, and others not providing any legal status for same-sex couples. Same-sex couples may or may not have the right to adopt children and to access assisted reproduction. Combating discrimination has become part of EU internal and external policies, and is the subject of numerous resolutions of the European Parliament.

Same sex unions and adoption rights

Russia's war on Ukraine has been a wake-up call for many EU Member States' defence budgets. Rising from €218 billion in 2021 to €326 billion in 2024, a further increase of at least €100 billion is projected by 2027. Despite these significant increases, most experts note that current geopolitical developments will require much more.

EU Member State defence expenditure

For the European Union to compete globally while continuing to ensure progress in environmental, social and fundamental rights, more strategic and collective action is imperative. EU businesses could harness the full potential of the single market and economic and monetary union and challenge competitors in fast-growing and future-oriented economic activities such as digital and clean energy production. This study finds that, compared to a situation where Member States act alone, a coordinated approach at EU level could bring an additional 0.9 % of GDP in 2035. A more ambitious integrated approach could be even more positive, with a benefit estimated at 2.6 % of additional GDP in 2035.

Cost of non-Europe in strategic innovation

Poverty has many dimensions. Following recent crises, not least the COVID-19 pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis, some of poverty's known dimensions have evolved while new forms have emerged. Addressing poverty remains mainly the responsibility of EU countries' governments acting in complex national social settings. The EU meanwhile seeks to coordinate Member States' efforts and offers support in the form of funding and data. The new European Commission is stepping up efforts to meet the EU's poverty reduction targets.

EU action against poverty

Rare diseases, though seldom recognised and frequently misdiagnosed, affect approximately 36 million people in the EU. Despite their significant collective prevalence, patients with rare diseases are often overlooked by healthcare systems, facing challenges in diagnosis, treatment, and access to advances in research. Researchers are increasingly using networks to share their findings and make better progress, giving new hope to patients.

Rare Diseases: Advances in research give patients new hope

Batteries are vital to the EU’s clean energy transition, industrial future, and strategic autonomy. While the sector benefits from strong R&D support, it faces challenges such as reliance on third countries, high costs, and competition from regions with lower environmental standards. Sustainable value chains and recycling could help, but uncertainty remains over the EU’s ability to meet future demand. Rising costs, market slowdowns, and gigafactory setbacks, including Northvolt’s collapse, raise concerns. To secure a resilient battery supply chain, the EU focuses on strategic coordination, regulatory frameworks, and funding, offering key lessons for industrial policy.

Battery supply chain

The digital information sphere has become the main space for public debate, shaping opinions and access to information. In the past decade, it has also become a geostrategic battleground, with authoritarian states manipulating public opinion to weaken democracies. At the same time, corporate rivalry over emerging technologies, particularly AI, has intensified. AI-driven disinformation poses growing risks to democratic information ecosystems. Strengthening information integrity is crucial to safeguarding human rights and freedom of expression. Multilateral efforts to enhance resilience align with the EU’s planned European Democracy Shield, building on existing measures and fostering new partnerships.

Information Manipulation and the EU response

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?

Euroscola

Press conference of the special committee on the housing crisis after its mission to Vienna

Special committee on the European Democracy Shield Ordinary meeting

EUDS

Committee on Regional Development Extraordinary meeting Committee on Regional Development

REGI

Committee on Petitions Ordinary meeting

PETI

Press point by Siegfried MUREŞAN (EPP, RO) and Carla TAVARES (S&D, PT), Co-rapporteurs, following the BUDG Committee meeting on Multi-annual Financial Framework beyond 2027 and Own Resources

Committee on Transport and Tourism Ordinary meeting

TRAN

Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development Extraordinary meeting Exchange of views with Commissioner Hansen: presentation of the CAP proposals

AGRI

Committee on Fisheries Ordinary meeting

PECH

Committee on Budgets Ordinary meeting

BUDG

Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality Ordinary meeting

FEMM

Committee on Transport and Tourism Ordinary meeting Public hearing on Administrative burden

Committee on Security and Defence Ordinary meeting

SEDE

Committee on Public Health Ordinary meeting

SANT

BUDG Press Point - Multi-annual Financial Framework (MFF) beyond 2027 and Own Resources

TRAN - Exchange of views with Commissioner Apostolas Tzitzikostas on the next MFF and its impact on transport and tourism

TRAN - Public hearing on Bureaucratic burden reduction in different transport modes

AGRI - Exchange of views with Commissioner Hansen: presentation of the legislative proposal for the CAP after 2027

BUDG - Exchange of views with Piotr SERAFIN, Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration on the MFF beyond 2027 and Own Resources

SEDE - The Security and Defence dimension of space and the EU's Space Act

TRAN - Presentation of the priorities of the Danish Presidency of the Council

SEDE AFET - Exchange of views with Radmila Shekerinska, NATO Deputy Secretary General

CULT - Presentation of the priorities of the Danish Presidency of the Council

SEDE - Capacity building on security, defence and law-enforcement policies for the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine

Danish Presidency of the Council contemporary art exhibition

FEMM - Presentation of the priorities of the Danish Presidency of the Council

SEDE - Presentation of the priorities of the Danish Presidency of the Council

SANT - Presentation of the priorities of the residency of the Council

PECH - Presentation of the priorities of the Danish Presidency of the Council

AFCO - Presentation of the programme of the Danish EU Council Presidency

This news item sows extracts from the meeting of the Committee on Budgets with Piotr SERAFIN, European Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration, on the Multi-annual Financial Framework beyond 2027 and Own Resources. The multiannual financial framework (MFF) is established for a period of seven years and lays down the maximum spending ceilings for different policy areas. After having secured Parliament’s consent, granted by a majority of its component members, EU governments adopt the MFF regulation by unanimity. The EU’s current long-term budget runs out on 31 December 2027.

BUDG meeting with Piotr SERAFIN, European Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration, on the Multi-annual Financial Framework beyond 2027 and Own Resources: extracts from the meeting

Siegfried MUREŞAN (EPP, RO) and Carla TAVARES (S&D, PT), Co-rapporteurs, and Sandra GÓMEZ LÓPEZ (S&D, ES) and Danuše NERUDOVÁ (EPP, CZ), co-rapporteurs for the Own Resources on the EU long-term budget, hold a press conference following the BUDG Committee meeting on Multi-annual Financial Framework beyond 2027 and Own Resources. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

MEPs in the Budgets Committee (BUDG) discuss with Piotr SERAFIN, European Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration, the proposal for the post 2027 European Union long-term budget, i.e. the multi-annual financial framework (MFF) beyond 2027 and own resources, right after its adoption by the Commission. Closing statements by Johan VAN OVERTVELDT (ECR, BE), Chair of BUDG Committee.

Multi-annual Financial Framework (MFF) beyond 2027 and Own Resources: Closing statements by Johan VAN OVERTVELDT (ECR, BE), Chair of BUDG Committee

MEPs in the Budgets Committee (BUDG) discuss with Piotr SERAFIN, European Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration, the proposal for the post 2027 European Union long-term budget, i.e. the multi-annual financial framework (MFF) beyond 2027 and own resources, right after its adoption by the Commission. Catch-the-eye with Piotr SERAFIN, European Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration.

Multi-annual Financial Framework (MFF) beyond 2027 and Own Resources: Catch-the-eye with Piotr SERAFIN, European Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration

MEPs in the Budgets Committee (BUDG) discuss with Piotr SERAFIN, European Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration, the proposal for the post 2027 European Union long-term budget, i.e. the multi-annual financial framework (MFF) beyond 2027 and own resources, right after its adoption by the Commission. Answer by Piotr SERAFIN, European Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration - BUDG Committee.

Multi-annual Financial Framework (MFF) beyond 2027 and Own Resources: Answer by Piotr SERAFIN, European Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration - BUDG Committee

MEPs in the Budgets Committee (BUDG) discuss with Piotr SERAFIN, European Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration, the proposal for the post 2027 European Union long-term budget, i.e. the multi-annual financial framework (MFF) beyond 2027 and own resources, right after its adoption by the Commission. Statements by MFF and Own Resources Shadow Rapporteurs - BUDG Committee.

Multi-annual Financial Framework beyond 2027 and Own Resources: Statements by MFF and Own Resources Shadow Rapporteurs - BUDG Committee

MEPs in the Budgets Committee (BUDG) discuss with Piotr SERAFIN, European Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration, the proposal for the post 2027 European Union long-term budget, i.e. the multi-annual financial framework (MFF) beyond 2027 and own resources, right after its adoption by the Commission. Statements by Siegfried MUREŞAN (EPP, RO), Carla TAVARES (S&D, PT), Danuše NERUDOVÁ (EPP, CZ) and Sandra GÓMEZ LÓPEZ (S&D, ES), MFF and Own Resources Co-Rapporteurs.

Multi-annual Financial Framework beyond 2027 and Own Resources: statements by MFF and Own Resources Co-Rapporteurs - BUDG Committee

MEPs in the Budgets Committee (BUDG) discuss with Piotr SERAFIN, European Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration, the proposal for the post 2027 European Union long-term budget, i.e. the multi-annual financial framework (MFF) beyond 2027 and own resources, right after its adoption by the Commission. Opening statements by Johan VAN OVERTVELDT (ECR, BE), Chair of BUDG and by Piotr SERAFIN, Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Multi-annual Financial Framework beyond 2027 and Own Resources: opening statements by Johan VAN OVERTVELDT (ECR, BE), Chair of BUDG and by Piotr SERAFIN, Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration - BUDG Committee

Stefano BONACCINI (S&D, IT), Rapporteur, holds a press conference on Unfair trade practices. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Press conference by Stefano BONACCINI (S&D, IT), Rapporteur, on Unfair trade practices

Co-rapporteurs Siegfried Mureşan and Carla Tavares hold a press conference on Parliament's priorities and expectations for the EU's post-2027 long-term budget ahead of the Commission's proposal, which is due to be unveiled. MEPs call for a more ambitious budget than the current spending ceiling of 1% of the EU-27’s gross national income given the urgent need to address future security concerns and raise Europe’s competitiveness in the global economy without undermining support for the European Union’s efforts to support its regions and rural communities. To be adopted, the next long-term budget will need the approval of the Parliament, granted by a majority of its component members. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Press conference by Siegfried MUREŞAN (EPP, RO) and Carla TAVARES (S&D, PT), Co-rapporteurs, on Parliament's priorities on MFF ahead of Commission proposal

Denmark’s ministers present their priorities in meetings with parliamentary committees as Denmark holds the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU until the end of 2025. Marie BJERRE, Minister for European Affairs, Peter HUMMELGAARD, Minister of Justice, Kaare DYBVAD, Minister for Immigration and Integration, Torsten SCHACK PEDERSEN, Minister of Resilience and Preparedness, Morten BØDSKOV, Minister for Industry, Business and Financial Affairs, and Caroline Stage OLSEN, Minister for Digital Affairs, Lars Løkke RASMUSSEN, Minister for Foreign Affairs, presents the EU policy priorities of the Danish Presidency of the Council of the EU in the Committees on Foreign Affairs (AFET), Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO), International Trade (INTA), and Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE). This news item shows extract from the AFET, IMCO, INTA and LIBE committees.

Presentation of the EU Council's priorities by Danish Ministers: extracts from the EP Committee meetings (AFET, LIBE, IMCO, INTA)

With 175 votes in favour, 360 against, and 18 abstentions, the European Parliament rejected a motion of censure against the European Commission. The vote on the motion took place by roll call. To be adopted, a two-thirds majority of the votes cast, representing a majority of component Members of Parliament, would have been needed.

Voting Session: motion of censure on the European Commission

Roberta METSOLA, EP President, issues a statement on the anniversary since the beginning of 10th legislative term and on Multiannual financial framework (MFF). This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Statement by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, on one year anniversary since the beginning of 10th legislative term and on Multiannual financial framework (MFF)

MEPs debate on stockpiling strategies and strengthening response capacities for a changing risk and threat landscape during the plenary session. Opening statement by Hadja LAHBIB, European Commissioner for Equality, and European Commissioner for Preparedness and Crisis Management. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Commission statement - Presentation of the Stockpiling Strategies - strengthening response capacities for a changing risk and threat landscape: Opening statement by Hadja LAHBIB, European Commissioner for Preparedness and Crisis Management

821 Ergebnisse