At a glance: Parliament committees tackle faster approval for eco-friendly pest control; MEPs address affordable and social housing  in a public hearing; and Parliament launches the European Capitals of Small Retail competition for 2026.

News in Brief – 02/07/2025 - English

At a glance: Parliament opens its doors in Strasbourg for the EYE event; a new plenary session kicks off on Monday; and the multilingualism student competition.

News in Brief – 13/06/2025 - English

In January 2025, the Commission presented the Competitiveness Compass, the first major initiative of the second Commission led by Ursula von der Leyen. The Compass provides a strategic and clear framework to define the Commission’s work. It sets a path for Europe to become the place where future technologies, services and clean products are invented, manufactured and put on the market, while achieving climate neutrality.

A competitiveness compass for the EU

At a glance: MEPs call for human rights to be at the heart of Ukraine peace talks; Parliament’s Subcommittee on Human Rights will meet with journalists tomorrow to reaffirm the EU’s commitment to protecting media freedom; MEPs explore competition rules to tackle the housing crisis.

News in Brief – 08/04/2025 - English

At a glance: today is the last day of this plenary session. In Strasbourg, MEPs discuss the new action plan for a competitive and decarbonised steel and metals industry in the EU; Parliament debates the fundamental rights’ situation in Hungary; and MEPs approve a new financial aid package for Egypt and Jordan.

News in Brief – 03/04/2025 - English

At a glance: the political groups of the European Parliament are preparing for the next plenary session; next week in Strasbourg, MEPs will debate EU security, foreign policy and economic competitiveness; World Water Day: how the EU is tackling water scarcity and protecting access to clean water.

News in Brief – 25/03/2025 - English

At a glance: Parliament’s Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality marked International Women’s Day by calling for a stronger role for women in peacebuilding and security; on Monday in Strasbourg, Parliament is set to vote on a 1.9 billion euro support plan for Moldova; MEPs will also discuss EU competitiveness and how to close the skills gap.

News in Brief – 07/03/2025 - English

At a glance: on the third anniversary of Russia’s war of aggression, the European Parliament stands in solidarity with Ukraine; a delegation from the Subcommittee on Tax Matters will visit Finland and Estonia for talks on tax policy and competitiveness; and the Committee on Public Health is launching public consultations on rare diseases and women’s health.

News in Brief – 24/02/2025 - English

The parliamentarians are expected to call for a significantly more ambitious long-term EU budget to match EU citizens' expectations in an increasingly complex global landscape. They are likely to argue that the current budget ceiling of 1% of the EU-27’s gross national income is insufficient to respond effectively to the growing range of crises and challenges.

The&nbsp;text&nbsp;prepared by the Budgets Committee highlights that the United States’ retreat from its global role means EU spending will now have to address Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, in addition to a highly challenging economic and social backdrop, a competitiveness gap, and the worsening climate and biodiversity crisis.

Parliament’s priorities for the next long-term EU budget are designed to feed into the Commission’s proposal on the next MFF, due to&nbsp;&nbsp;be unveiled in July.

The EU’s 2021-2027 long-term budget, together with the NextGenerationEU recovery instrument, amounts to €2.018 trillion in current prices (€1.8 trillion in 2018 prices).&nbsp;The package consists of the long-term budget, the 2021-2027 multiannual financial framework, made up of €1.211 trillion in current prices (€1.074 trillion in 2018 prices), combined with the temporary recovery instrument, NextGenerationEU, of €806.9 billion (€750 billion in 2018 prices).

EU Multiannual Financial Framework 2021-2027

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;©Eugene_Photo / AdobeStock

The global economy is changing rapidly, requiring decisive action to safeguard and strengthen Europe's competitiveness, prosperity, and fairness, including in relation to other global actors. The recently-proposed&nbsp;Automotive Industry Plan, announced on 5 March 2025, it is intended to support the European automotive sector as it deals with high manufacturing costs, the low-carbon transition, and increased competition from China.&nbsp;

Parliament reviews recent Commission proposals to support the EU steel and metals industries, and the EU’s approach to other energy-intensive industries.The sector, which is critical for the EU's security of supply, is facing high energy costs and unfair global competition at a time when money is needed to pay for decarbonisation.

European competitiveness

Climate change and environmental degradation are an existential threat to Europe and the world. Therefore in December 2019 the Commission presented a communication on a European Green Deal that sets out a detailed vision to make Europe the first climate-neutral continent by 2050, safeguard biodiversity, establish a circular economy and eliminate pollution, while boosting the competitiveness of European industry and ensuring a just transition for the regions and workers affected.

Parliament has played an important role in pushing for more ambitious EU climate legislation and declared a climate emergency on 28 November 2019.&nbsp; The European Climate Law writes&nbsp;into law the goal to become climate neutral by 2050 and attain the intermediate target of reducing net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030 (compared to 1990 levels).&nbsp;After 2050 the EU will aim for negative emissions. In July&nbsp;2021 the European Commission presented its “Fit for 55 in 2030” package-the legislative tool to deliver on the targets agreed in the European Climate law.

The EP adopted the new Nature restoration law during its February plenary. The new law sets a target for the EU to restore at least 20% of the EU’s land and sea areas by 2030 and all ecosystems in need of restoration by 2050. The EU nature restoration law, agreed with member states, will restore degraded ecosystems in all member states, help achieve the EU’s climate and biodiversity objectives and enhance food security.

To reach the overall EU targets, member states must restore at least 30% of habitats covered by the new law (from forests, grasslands and wetlands to rivers, lakes and coral beds) from a poor to a good condition by 2030, increasing to 60% by 2040, and 90% by 2050. In line with Parliament’s position, EU countries should give priority to&nbsp;Natura 2000 areas&nbsp;until 2030. Once in a good condition, EU countries shall ensure an area does not significantly deteriorate. Member states will also have to adopt national restoration plans detailing how they intend to achieve these targets.

European Green Deal

In the annual State of the European Union debate, MEPs quizzed President von der Leyen on the Commission’s work in the past and its plans until the June 2024 elections.



Opening the debate, EP President, Roberta Metsola&nbsp;said: “The European Union today is stronger, and more united than ever before. The world is changing and Europe must adapt and change with it too. We must keep striving to make our Europe a place of equality of opportunity, of access, of prosperity - where everyone can reach their potential. We must keep reforming. We should always keep people’s concerns at the centre of all our actions.“



Commission President von der Leyen said that the EU has undergone a substantial transformation since she first presented her programme in 2019, adding: ”We have delivered over 90% of the political guidelines I presented” back then. 



On the Green Deal, the decarbonisation of Europe’s industry while maintaining its competitiveness, she announced an anti-subsidy investigation into Chinese electric vehicles. ”We must defend ourselves against unfair practices” she said. 



President von der Leyen stressed the importance of a fair transition for farmers, families and industry and that “Europe will do ’whatever it takes’ to keep its competitive edge.” She announced a competitiveness check by an independent board for every new legislation.



With regard to Artificial Intelligence, Ms von der Leyen said that AI will improve healthcare, boost productivity and help to address climate change. The Commission’s “number one priority is to ensure AI develops in a human-centric, transparent and responsible way” she said, also calling for an international panel of experts similar to the IPCC on climate change to steer its development. 



On Ukraine, she announced that the Commission will propose the extension of the EU’s temporary protection to Ukrainians and an additional 50 billion euros over four years for investment and reforms. “Our support to Ukraine will endure.” 



The Commission President also referred to the rule of law, enlargement, migration, EU-Africa relations, the Global Gateway initiative, climate change, food security, and an upcoming Social Partner Summit.

State of the European Union 2023

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

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

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

EP Plenary session - Need for the EU to scale up clean technologies

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

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

In 2025, the European Commission will propose a new Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) to set spending limits for EU policy areas over several years. Members will examine how the EU's long-term budget can best meet citizens' needs and address key challenges. In what ways does the EU budget affect our daily lives? How should the EU budget be structured to effectively navigate current priorities and prepare for future challenges? How do we ensure the European Union remains competitive and innovative on the global stage? In what ways can the MFF contribute to achieving economic and social cohesion among EU Member States? How can the EU budget support a sustainable, climate-neutral and resilient future? And how can we ensure young people’s needs are reflected in our spending priorities?

EYE2025 - Investing in Europe’s future? The next Multiannual Financial Framework

Event "Reskilling Europe: a driver for growth and competitiveness" - Fireside chat with Roberta METSOLA, EP President and Ana BOTIN, Executive Director of Banco Santander

Subcommittee on Tax Matters Extraordinary meeting EU Tax Symposium 2025 - Strengthening competitiveness and fairness to build prosperity

FISC

ENVI - Exchange of views with Jessika Roswall, Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy, and presentation of the Water Resilience Strategy

World Economic Forum European growth and competitiveness dinner - Speech by Roberta METSOLA, EP President .

EP Plenary session - EU framework conditions for competitive, efficient and sustainable public transport services at all levels

TRAN - Tourism Task Force - Industrial Policies for European Tourism Competitiveness

EP Plenary session - Competition policy – annual report 2024

FISC - Public hearing on ' The Role of Tax in Aligning the Green Transition and Competitiveness '

EMPL Exchange of view with Teresa Ribera Commissioner for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition)

ENVI - Exchange of views with Jessika Roswall, Commissioner responsible for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy, as part of the structured dialogue

MEPs assess the outcome of the 26 June European Council meeting with António COSTA, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der LEYEN, President of the European Commission. At their summit 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. Closing statements by António COSTA, President of the European Council.

Council and Commission statements - Conclusions of the European Council meeting of 26-27 June 2025: Closing statements by António COSTA, President of the European Council

MEPs assess the outcome of the 26 June European Council meeting with António COSTA, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der LEYEN, President of the European Commission. At their summit 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. Closing statement by Maroš ŠEFČOVIČ, European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, and European Commissioner for Interinstitutional Relations and Transparency.

Council and Commission statements - Conclusions of the European Council meeting of 26-27 June 2025: Closing statement by Maroš ŠEFČOVIČ, European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, and European Commissioner for Interinstitutional Relations

MEPs assess the outcome of the 26 June European Council meeting with António COSTA, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der LEYEN, President of the European Commission. At their summit 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. MEPs debate.

Council and Commission statements - Conclusions of the European Council meeting of 26-27 June 2025: MEPs debate

MEPs assess the outcome of the 26 June European Council meeting with António COSTA, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der LEYEN, President of the European Commission. At their summit 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. One round of political group.

Council and Commission statements - Conclusions of the European Council meeting of 26-27 June 2025: One round of political group

MEPs assess the outcome of the 26 June European Council meeting with António COSTA, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der LEYEN, President of the European Commission. At their summit 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. Opening statement by Ursula von der LEYEN, President of the European Commission. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Council and Commission statements - Conclusions of the European Council meeting of 26-27 June 2025: opening statement by Ursula von der LEYEN, President of the European Commission

MEPs assess the outcome of the 26 June European Council meeting with António COSTA, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der LEYEN, President of the European Commission. At their summit 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. Opening statement by António COSTA, President of the European Council. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Council and Commission statements - Conclusions of the European Council meeting of 26-27 June 2025: Opening statement by António COSTA, President of the European Council

MEPs assess the outcome of June’s EU summit with Presidents Costa and von der Leyen. 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.

Conclusions of the European Council meeting of 26-27 June 2025: extracts from the debate

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. Closing statements by Jessika ROSWALL, European Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy, and by Marie BJERRE, Danish Minister for European Affairs

Situation in the Middle East: closing statements by Jessika ROSWALL, European Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy, and by Marie BJERRE, Danish Minister for European Affairs

MEPs discuss Denmark’s six-month Council Presidency agenda, which started on 1 July, with Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. 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. Closing statement by Maroš ŠEFČOVIČ, Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, and for Interinstitutional Relations

Council and Commission statements - Presentation of the programme of activities of the Danish Presidency: closing statement by Maroš ŠEFČOVIČ, Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, and for Interinstitutional Relations

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