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.

News in Brief – 13/09/2024 - English

At a glance: a delegation from the European Parliament’s Committee on International Trade is attending the WTO Public Forum; the European Parliament celebrates Multilingualism Day later this month; European Mobility Week begins on Monday.

News in Brief – 12/09/2024 - English

At a glance: political groups are preparing for the next European Parliament plenary session; the implementation of the Digital Services Act; and Mario Draghi’s  report on the future of European  competitiveness.

News in Brief – 11/09/2024 - English

At a glance: von der Leyen to present the structure and portfolios of the College of Commissioners at Parliament’s Conference of Presidents; political groups prepare for the next European Parliament plenary session; and an International Trade Committee delegation attends the WTO Public Forum.

News in Brief – 10/09/2024 - English

At a glance: Parliament’s Committee on Regional Development is holding a discussion with the European Commissioner for Cohesion and Reforms; the WTO Joint Statement Initiative on e-commerce; and Multilingualism Day.

News in Brief – 09/09/2024 - English

Although the European defence industry is generally competitive, more than a decade of underinvestment has kept it from reaching its full potential. The significant under-investment in European defence is demonstrated by the severe difficulties the European defence technological and industrial base (EDTIB) has in obtaining finance. Member States' defence budgets will continue to be the EDTIB's main source of funding; however, more collaborative actions and spending would enhance output and efficiency.

EPRS policy podcast - Financing the European defence industry

Electrification is gaining momentum across many sectors, including transport, buildings and industry, driven by the EU's climate ambition and security of supply. As the cost of renewable energy technologies like solar and wind continues to fall, electrification presents an opportunity to reshape the European economy, enhancing competitiveness and promoting sustainable growth.

EPRS Science and Technology podcast - What if electrification transformed the EU economy?

At a glance: the Committee on International Trade will hold an exchange of views with the Commission about negotiations on the WTO plurilateral agreement on e-commerce; a delegation from the same committee will take part in the WTO Public Forum in Geneva; and the EU Solidarity Fund will be mobilised to support five EU countries.

News in Brief – 06/09/2024 - English

At a glance: European Parliament President Roberta Metsola is attending the G7 Speakers’ Conference in Italy; former President of the European Central Bank Mario Draghi presented his report on the future of Europe’s competitiveness at yesterday’s meeting of the Conference of Presidents; today is the International Day of Charity.

News in Brief – 05/09/2024 - English

At a glance: the Committee on Budgetary Control is discussing EU fraud and corruption investigations; the Committee on the Internal Market is reviewing toy safety rules; and the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development is exchanging views on pesticide residues in food.

News in Brief – 04/09/2024 - English

At a glance: Parliament’s committees will start meeting this week.

News in Brief – 03/09/2024 - English

At a glance: Parliament’s committees will start meet this week and the agenda of the next plenary session of the European Parliament.

News in Brief – 02/09/2024 - English

Once they are elected, MEPs can take on various roles. They can serve as the President or as Vice-President of the European Parliament, join committees, or even become an observer, which, despite being a less discussed position, is still an equally important role within Parliament.
In this episode, we will take a closer look at what it means to be an observer in order to better understand who can become one, what their duties are and how they operate.

Jargon Jungle: the role of Observers

When we think of the European Parliament, we usually imagine MEPs voting in the debating chamber. In reality, though, voting only takes place once a month, during plenary part-sessions. But what actually are these part-sessions, and how do they work?

What are plenary sessions?

Have you ever heard of the Vice-Presidents of the European Parliament?
From their job title, it’s clear that they play a crucial role in Parliament and must be important political figures. 
But do you know what the Vice-Presidents of the European Parliament really do, who they are and how they are elected?

Jargon Jungle: the Vice-Presidents of the European Parliament

Out of the jargon jungle. The role of the European Parliament President?

The role of the European Parliament President?

European competitiveness

The LUX Audience Film Award is presented every year by the European Parliament and the European Film Academy, in partnership with the European Commission and Europa Cinemas. A symbol of the European Parliament’s commitment to culture, the Lux award continues to build cultural bridges across Europe, by putting the spotlight on films that go to the heart of the European public debate.

The award aims to strengthen ties between politics and citizens, by inviting European audiences to become active protagonists and cast their vote for their favourite films.

Lux Audience Award 2025

As established in&nbsp;rule 129 of the Rules of Procedure, together with the Commission President-elect, the Council appoints the Commissioners-designate. Each Commissioner-designate is assigned responsibility for a specific policy area (portfolio) by the Commission President-elect in accordance with the political guidelines she/he has outlined. The relevant EP committees assess each of the Commissioners-designate, before a plenary vote on the appointment of the College as a whole.

The Commissioner-designate is invited to a three-hour hearing, streamed live, in front of the EP committees responsible for their portfolio. The candidate makes an opening speech of maximum 15 minutes and will then reply to MEPs’ questions.

Taking into account the results of the hearings, as well as consultations with Parliament’s political groups, the Commission President-elect presents the whole College of Commissioners-designate and their programme at a sitting of Parliament. After a debate, MEPs decide, by a majority of the votes cast, whether to invest the new College of Commissioners for a mandate of five years. It may defer the vote until the following sitting.

Confirmation hearings

There are many examples of AI being used in everyday life: Online shopping and advertising; Web search; Digital personal assistants; Machine translations; Smart homes, cities and infrastructure; Cars; Cybersecurity; Artificial intelligence against Covid-19; Fighting disinformation, etc. &nbsp;

In March Plenary session the Parliament approved the Artificial Intelligence Act that ensures safety and compliance with fundamental rights, while boosting innovation.

The regulation, agreed in negotiations with member states in December 2023, was endorsed by MEPs with 523 votes in favour, 46 against and 49 abstentions.

It aims to protect fundamental rights, democracy, the rule of law and environmental sustainability from high-risk AI, while boosting innovation and establishing Europe as a leader in the field. The regulation establishes obligations for AI based on its potential risks and level of impact.

Robotics and artificial intelligence

Have a look at stockshots (from 2021 onwards) with illustrative pre-edited broadcast quality video footage. These editable stockshots are clean (raw), with natural sound (no voice-over), produced to illustrate priority EU dossiers and parliamentary work. They are intended to help audiovisual media produce their own programs, for example, editing of news reports or documentaries.

Infoclips - Illustrative footage

The European Union produces more than&nbsp;2.2 billion tonnes of waste every year. It is currently updating its&nbsp;legislation on waste management&nbsp;to promote a shift to a more sustainable model known as the circular economy.

The circular economy is a&nbsp;model of production and consumption, which involves sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing and recycling existing materials and products as long as possible. In this way, the&nbsp;life cycle of products is extended.

In March 2020, the European Commission presented the circular economy action plan,&nbsp;&nbsp;which aims to promote more sustainable product design, reduce waste and empower consumers, for example by creating aright to repair). There is a focus on resource intensive sectors, such as&nbsp;electronics and ICT,&nbsp;plastics,&nbsp;textiles&nbsp;and construction.

In February 2021, the Parliament adopted a resolution on the&nbsp;new circular economy action plan&nbsp;demanding additional measures to achieve a carbon-neutral, environmentally sustainable, toxic-free and fully circular economy by 2050, including tighter recycling rules and&nbsp;binding targets for materials use and consumption&nbsp;by 2030.

In March 2022, the Commission released the&nbsp;first package of measures&nbsp;to speed up the transition towards a circular economy, as part of the circular economy action plan. The proposals include boosting sustainable products, empowering consumers for the green transition, reviewing construction product regulation, and creating a strategy on sustainable textiles.

In November 2022, the Commission proposed&nbsp;new EU-wide rules on packaging. It aims to reduce packaging waste and improve packaging design, with for example clear labelling to promote reuse and recycling; and calls for a transition to bio-based, biodegradable and compostable plastics.

Circular economy

With 401 votes in favour, the European Parliament elected Ursula von der Leyen as President of the European Commission in a secret ballot on 18 July.

This will be Ursula von der Leyen’s second term as Commission President. She was first elected by MEPs in July 2019.

Parliament is currently composed of 719 MEPs, so the necessary majority was 360 votes. The vote was held by secret paper ballot. 401 MEPs voted in favour, 284 against, and 22 cast blank or invalid votes.

Ursula von der Leyen outlined her priorities ahead of the vote.&nbsp;Ursula von der Leyen put forward her vision for a stronger and more prosperous Europe. Key initiatives include a new Clean Industrial Deal to drive decarbonisation and industrial growth, and a European Competitiveness Fund to boost innovation.

She announced that she would boost security by doubling Europol’s staff and tripling the number of European Border and Coast Guards to 30 000. She proposed a European Democracy Shield for countering foreign information manipulation and interference, and a European Affordable Housing Plan.

Ms von der Leyen also suggested a plan for agriculture to address the need to adapt to climate change and a Roadmap for Women’s Rights. Saying that “we must enable young people to make the most of Europe’s freedoms”, she highlighted the importance of the Erasmus+ programme, mental health, and tackling issues related to screen time and social media, including addictive practices. She put significant focus on defence, proposing to create a new post of Commissioner for Defence to drive the European Defence Union and calling for a comprehensive aerial defence system – a European Air Shield – to protect EU airspace and “as a strong symbol of European unity in defence matters”.

Election of the 2024-2029 European Commission President

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

Faced with a growing international terrorist threat, the European Union (EU) is playing an ever more ambitious role in counter-terrorism.&nbsp;Even though primary responsibility for combating crime and ensuring security lies with the Member States, the EU provides cooperation, coordination and (to some extent) harmonisation tools, as well as financial support, to address this borderless phenomenon.

EU spending in the area of counter-terrorism has increased over the years and is set to grow in the future, to allow for better cooperation between national law enforcement authorities and enhanced support by the EU bodies in charge of security, such as Europol and eu-LISA.

The action plan to reinforce the fight against the financing of terrorism focuses on two main strands of action: tracing terrorists through financial movements and preventing them from moving funds or other assets and disrupting the sources of revenue used by terrorist organisations, by targeting their capacity to raise funds.

In April the European Parliament adopted a new regulation that will target content such as texts, images, sound recordings or videos, including live transmissions, that incite, solicit or contribute to terrorist offences, provide instructions for such offences or solicit people to participate in a terrorist group. It will also cover material that provides guidance on how to make and use explosives, firearms and other weapons for terrorist purposes.

Hosting service providers will have to remove or disable access to flagged terrorist content in all member states within one hour of receiving a removal order from the competent authority. Member states will adopt rules on penalties, the degree of which will take into account the nature of the breach and the size of company responsible.

Fight against terrorism

Ever since Russia launched an illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine on 24&nbsp;February 2022, the EU and the Parliament have supported the country by condemning Russia’s aggression, sanctioning those responsible and providing financial and material aid. Parliament has also been supportive of Ukraine’s efforts to become an EU candidate country and has been calling on EU countries to launch accession talks.&nbsp;

The European Parliament President Roberta Metsola was in Kyiv on 1 April 2022 to express the European Union´s support to the Ukrainian people and to condemn the unjustified Russian attack.&nbsp; On 9 February 2023, the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the European Parliament during an extraordinary plenary session in Brussels.

In Joint Statement&nbsp;the Presidents of the European Union Institutions on the occasion of the 2 year anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine&nbsp; declared: "The European Union will continue its strong and unwavering political, military, financial, economic, diplomatic and humanitarian support to help Ukraine defend itself, protect its people, its cities and its critical infrastructure, restore its territorial integrity, bring back the thousands of deported children, and bring the war to an end. The European Union has decided to open accession negotiations with Ukraine and will help it on its path towards EU membership. The future of Ukraine lies in the European Union.

The European Union will continue to provide Ukraine with regular and predictable financial support. The 50 billion euro financial assistance package for 2024-2027 will help Ukraine meet its immediate needs, rebuild its economy and society, modernise its institutions and consolidate democracy and the rule of law."

Solidarity with Ukraine

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

The constitutive meetings of the European Parliament's standing committees and subcommittees take place in Brussels on 10 July 2019, following the appointment of their members in the plenary sitting of 3-4 July. During the meetings, each committee and subcommittee will elect its respective bureau, made up of a Chair and Vice-Chairs, for a two-and-a-half year mandate. The newly set up committees will then start holding their regular meetings during the week of 22 July.

ENVI - Committee on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety

Finland joined the EU on 1st January 1995. 

Finland is one of the most sparsely-populated countries in the EU and is bordered by Sweden to the west, Norway to the north and Russia to the east. Finland has 13 seats in the European Parliament.

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EU - Finland

On 24 February Russian troops invaded Ukraine. Shortly before&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir Putin recognized&nbsp;two breakaway regions in eastern Ukraine&nbsp; as independent.&nbsp;The Conference of Presidents of the EP condemned the Russian attack on Ukraine in the strongest possible terms. "Ukraine is an independent and sovereign nation and its territorial integrity is non-negotiable. The invasion is unjustified and illegal. It is a threat to European and regional stability, as well as to the rules-based world order. The attack targets our model of democratic society. It cannot go unanswered, " says declaration of the COP.

"The Russian invasion into Ukraine is part of President Putin’s destabilisation agenda. It is a path that will bring the Kremlin in direct confrontation with Europe and the rule-based world-order. It is a path that pits authoritarianism against democracy. It is a path that we cannot allow him to walk unchallenged," said EP President Roberta Metsola.

European Union leaders met for a special European Council in Brussels on 24 February&nbsp;and adopted a set of sanctions related to the the financial sector, the energy and transport sectors,dual-use goods, exports, Russian individuals etc.&nbsp;

Ukraine is a priority partner for the European Union (EU). The EU supports Ukraine in ensuring a stable, prosperous and democratic future for its citizens and is unwavering in its support for Ukraine’s independence, territorial integrity and sovereignty. The Association Agreement (AA), including its Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) signed in 2014, is the main tool for bringing Ukraine and the EU closer together. Since 2014, the EU and the Financial Institutions have mobilised more than €15 billion in grants and loans to support the reform process in the country, with strong conditionality on continued progress.

As a result of the cooperation with Ukraine’s Verkhovna Rada in the field of democracy support, European Parliament launched on 11 March the website “<a href="https://ukraine.europarl.europa.eu/en/home.html" style="color:#0563c1; text-decoration:underline" target="_blank">The EU stands with Ukraine</a>” (in English and Ukrainian) provides the latest news, videos and podcasts, relevant legislation and resolutions to show how the EU is helping Ukraine. Content from the Ukrainian Parliament could also be shared on the site. Actively supporting EU efforts to promote democracy and human rights in the world is one of Parliament's core responsibilities.

EU - Ukraine

G7 and EU - US summits that will tackle issues like COVID-19, climate change, Russia and free trade Belarus.

On 11-13 June, at the G7 summit in Carbis Bay, Cornwall, the seven members - Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States, plus the EU - will discuss the global recovery from COVID-19, free and fair trade and the fight against climate change. Other major security issues such as Belarus, and Israel/Palestine will also be raised. The UK organisers have invited leaders from Australia, India, South Korea and South Africa to attend as guest countries.

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the Commission and Charles Michel , President of the Council will meet the US president on 15 June in Brussels.

G7 and EU - US summits

On Thursday morning, MEPs discuss the European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruling that deemed Ireland’s tax arrangements with Apple as illegal state aid. The court's decision requires Ireland to recover €13 billion in taxes from Apple and overturns a previous General Court ruling that was favorable to Apple. This ruling is final and definitive.

Representatives from the Commission and Council will provide insights on the potential impact of the ECJ’s verdict. The Chair of Parliament’s tax subcommittee has described the ruling as "historic," highlighting its significance for European tax policy.

This debate will explore the broader implications of the ruling for EU state aid regulations and international tax practices.

The historic CJEU ruling on the Apple state aid case and its consequences

Droughts and extreme weather events pose significant threats to local communities and EU agriculture amid climate change. Increasingly frequent and severe droughts are straining water resources, impacting crop yields, and threatening food security across Europe. Extreme weather events, such as heatwaves and heavy rainfall, further exacerbate these challenges by causing crop failures, soil erosion, and damage to infrastructure.

Addressing these issues is essential not only for protecting the livelihoods of communities dependent on farming and rural economies but also for safeguarding agricultural productivity.

Droughts and extreme weather events as a threat to local communities and EU agriculture in times of climate change

On Wednesday afternoon, MEPs will discuss the EU's response to the mpox outbreak and the need for ongoing action with the European Commission. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the mpox outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and nearby regions a "public health emergency of international concern" on August 14, 2024. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) issued a risk assessment on August 16, stating that the overall risk to Europe's general population is low. Currently, the EU has one antiviral treatment and one vaccine authorized for mpox. The Commission, through the Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority, is managing vaccine procurement and donation to affected African countries. MEPs are expected to urge a coordinated EU response to contain the outbreak in Africa and prevent the virus from spreading to Europe.

EU response to the Mpox outbreak and the need for continuous action

On Wednesday, MEPs review the Hungarian National Card residence permit scheme and its effects on the Schengen area with the Commission and Council. In July, Hungary expanded its National Card residence permit scheme to include nationals from Russia and Belarus. MEPs have expressed concerns that this could lower screening requirements for these individuals, potentially increasing security risks for the Schengen free-travel zone.

On 4 September, Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson confirmed to Parliament’s Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice, and Home Affairs that the Commission is requesting further details from the Hungarian government about this expansion.

The Hungarian “National Card” scheme and its consequences for Schengen and the area of freedom, security and justice

The LUX Audience Award is presented every year by the European Parliament and the European Film Academy, in partnership with the European Commission and Europa Cinemas. The award celebrates European cinema and it aims to engage and debate with the larger European public on important societal subjects reflecting our common European values such as democracy, rule of law, pluralism and freedom of expression.

Press conference on the LUX Audience Award 2025

The Hungarian presidency of the Council of the EU runs from 1 July to 31 December 2024, focusing on seven key areas: boosting EU competitiveness, strengthening defense policy, merit-based enlargement, curbing illegal migration, shaping cohesion policy, supporting farmers, and tackling demographic challenges. Amid global competition, security risks, and climate impacts, Hungary will ensure continuity during the transition to a new European Parliament and Commission, while starting to implement the Strategic Agenda 2024–2029. Hungary takes over from Belgium and will hand over to Poland.

Presentation of the programme of activities of the Hungarian Presidency

On Tuesday afternoon, MEPs debate the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip and the broader Middle East situation with the Commission.

EU foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell has described the Gaza crisis as “catastrophic both from a humanitarian and political point of view,” with no positive outlook. The European Parliament has consistently called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire and the unconditional release of all hostages. MEPs are also expressing deep concern about the potential for further escalation, particularly in Lebanon.

War in the Gaza Strip and the situation in the Middle-East

Parliament will debate the findings of the Draghi's report on a blueprint for boosting Europe’s competitiveness. after his address from 14.00.

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.

The future of European competitiveness

At 13:30 on Tuesday, MEPs are hearing Mario Draghi present his ambitious blueprint for boosting Europe's competitiveness. Parliament is set to debate the findings from 14:00.

Former ECB President and Italian Prime Minister, Draghi is tasked by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to outline ideas for the future of European competitiveness. His report calls the challenge "existential" and warns that delaying action will force tough decisions.

The blueprint proposes major reforms, including a boost to public investment through new EU common debt, a reformed cohesion policy, a revamped competition policy, and an industrial strategy aimed at reducing Europe’s high energy prices.

Address by Mario DRAGHI, Special Advisor to Ursula von der Leyen, EC President - Presentation of the report on the Future of European competitiveness

MEPs are discussing global social media platform regulations on Tuesday, focusing on the enforcement of the Digital Services Act (DSA) and its role in protecting democracy and online freedom. The DSA, in effect since February 2024, applies to all platforms, and MEPs are expected to question the Commission on its enforcement measures, including ongoing investigations into potential violations by TikTok, Meta, X, and AliExpress. There may also be calls for stricter scrutiny of Telegram following recent developments.

Since the DSA's adoption, countries like the UK, Canada, Australia, and the US are considering similar laws to hold platforms accountable for user safety. The EU's digital rulebook, a global standard for consumer protection and rights online, includes obligations for social media companies to combat illegal content, enhance algorithm transparency, and ban misleading practices such as targeted ads for children. 

MEPs are also likely to explore how the DSA has influenced global regulatory trends and assess further measures to strengthen its enforcement.

Global measures towards social media platforms - Strengthening the role of DSA and protecting the democracy and freedom in the online sphere

MEPs are calling for continued military and financial support for Ukraine in a resolution expected on Thursday. Ahead of the vote, Parliament is holding a debate with the Commission on Tuesday.

In July, the newly-elected Parliament adopted its first resolution of the term, stating that the EU must support Ukraine until it wins against Russia’s occupying forces. This latest resolution reaffirms that commitment, urging EU countries to maintain their backing for Kyiv.

Continued financial and military support to Ukraine by EU Member States

After a stabbing attack in Solingen, Germany, MEPs are discussing how to manage unauthorised movements of third-country nationals within the EU. This follows Germany’s decision to reintroduce border controls on all land borders for six months to improve detection of illegal entries.

MEPs are raising concerns about the impact of these checks on Schengen free movement and reviewing preparations for the upcoming Pact on Migration and Asylum, set for 2026. The Pact focuses on strengthening security checks and accelerating asylum and return procedures for those not entitled to protection.

Need to prevent security threats like the Solingen attack through addressing illegal migration and effective return

In January 2024, the EU launched the Strategic Dialogue on the Future of Agriculture, following EC President von der Leyen's announcement in her September 2023 State of the Union address. The initiative brought together 29 key stakeholders from the agri-food sector, rural communities, and academia to shape a shared vision for EU farming and food systems.

On 4 September 2024, EC President von der Leyen received the group's final report, "A Shared Prospect for Farming and Food in Europe," from Chair Professor Peter Strohschneider. The report outlines challenges, opportunities, and recommendations that will guide the European Commission's Vision for Agriculture and Food during von der Leyen's second term.

Outcome of the Strategic Dialogue on the Future of EU Agriculture

Roberta METSOLA, EP President, officially opens the Plenary session in Strasbourg with a statement.

Opening of the Pleanry session by Roberta METSOLA, EP President

President Metsola meets the Prime Minister of Finland, Petteri Orpo has been Finland’s Prime Minister since 2023 and leader of the National Coalition Party since 2016, he previously served as Deputy Prime Minister, Finance Minister, and Minister of the Interior.

President Metsola meets the Prime Minister of Finland, Petteri Orpo

The Italian Chamber of Deputies will host the 22nd Meeting of the Presidents of the Lower Houses of the G7 Countries and the European Parliament in Verona from 5 to 7 September 2024. This high-level event will focus on critical global issues such as security, development, and the digital transition. Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, will deliver an opening address, contributing to discussions aimed at fostering international cooperation. The meeting will conclude with the adoption of a final Declaration, highlighting the shared commitments of the G7 nations.

Roberta METSOLA, EP President participates in the G7 Speakers' Meeting

During her official visit to Poland, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola participated in a series of high-profile engagements that underscored the importance of EU-Poland relations. 

The visit began with a meeting between President Metsola and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk at the Chancellery of the Prime Minister in Warsaw. 

Following this, President Metsola attended the "The Future of Poland 2024" event at the University of Warmia and Mazury. During the event, she delivered a speech.. The subsequent Q&A session was moderated by Warsaw Mayor Rafal Trzaskowski.

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President to Poland

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.
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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

Every year 2.2 billion tonnes of waste are generated in the EU. More than a quarter of it (27%) is municipal waste: everyday waste collected and treated by municipalities, which is mainly generated by households. Data shows that the amount of waste and the way it is managed varies a lot across EU countries, but there has been a shift to more recycling and less landfilling.

To reduce waste and its impact on the environment, the EU has adopted ambitious targets on recycling and landfill and is working on packaging waste. The goal is to promote the shift towards a more sustainable model known as the circular economy.

Waste management in the EU: infographic with facts and figures

Euroscola

Committee on Constitutional Affairs

AFCO

Plenary session

Launch of the LUX Audience Award 2025 edition

Announcement of films nominated for the 2025 LUX Film Award

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

Press conference by Mounir SATOURI (Greens/EFA, FR), Chair of the DROI Subcommittee on human rights in Afghanistan: Afghan women testify in the European Parliament

Subcommittee meeting on Human Rights

DROI

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)

ENVI - Voting session

Meeting of the Conference of Presidents

EP welcoming briefing for EU correspondants

Roberta METSOLA, EP President, meets with Petteri ORPO, Finnish Prime Minister

INTA Committee - State of play of EU trade policy - Exchange of views with Sabine WEYAND, Director-general of DG Trade, Commission

SANT Subcommittee

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, to Verona (Italy) - G7 Speakers conference

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, to Verona (Italy) - G7 Speakers conference - Bilateral Meeting with Mike JOHNSON, Speaker of the House of Representatives of the United States of America

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, to Verona (Italy) - G7 Speakers conference - Bilateral Meeting with Ruslan STEFANCHUCK, Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada

AGRI Committee - Ordinary meeting

SEDE - High-Level Seminar on EU Security and Defence

Extraordinary meeting of the Conference of Presidents in presence of Mario DRAGHI, special adviser to the President of the Commission on the Future of European Competitiveness

SEDE- High-Level Seminar on EU Security and Defence

TRAN Committee - Exchange of views with Mr Josef Doppelbauer, Executive Director of the European Union Agency for Railways ERA

TRAN Committee - Exchange of views with Maja Markovčić Kostelac, Executive Director of the European Maritime Safety Agency EMSA

EMPL Meeting - Exchange of views with Mario Nava, Director General of DG Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion

This infoclip shows how universities, research centers, private companies and tech entrepreneurs experiment on AI and robotics to develop and produce technological solutions in key sectors, such as health, security, entertainment, mobility, and education. The infoclip was filmed at the AI Experience Centre of the VUB - Vrije Universiteit Brussel and at FARI, a Brussels-based institute whose mission is to study, develop, and foster the adoption and governance of AI, Data and Robotics technologies in an inclusive, ethical and sustainable way. Both the AI Experience Centre and FARI ar co-funded by the European Union.

Infoclip: Robotics and Artificial Intelligence

This memoclip shows extracts from Romano Prodi's tenure as President of the European Commission, focusing on the relationship with the European Parliament. Romano Prodi, President of the European Commission from 1999 to 2004, played a key role in the introduction of the euro and led the EU's largest expansion, welcoming ten new member states. His leadership was instrumental in promoting economic integration and strengthening the EU’s global influence, while his vision of a more united Europe helped shape the Union's political and economic future.

Memoclip: Romano PRODI, former President of the European Commission (1999-2004), and the European Parliament

This News item shows the arrival of Petteri ORPO, Finnish Prime Minister, his meeting with Roberta METSOLA, EP President, and roundtable. Petteri Orpo has been Finland’s Prime Minister since 2023 and leader of the National Coalition Party since 2016, he previously served as Deputy Prime Minister, Finance Minister, and Minister of the Interior.

Roberta METSOLA, EP President, meets with Petteri ORPO, Finnish Prime Minister: arrival, meeting and roundtable

As part of the Italian presidency of the G7, the Chamber of Deputies host the 22nd Meeting of the Presidents of the Lower Houses of the G7 Countries and of the European Parliament. The works take place in Verona from 5 to 7 September 2024 and focus on the following themes: 1) Security and Development: new geopolitical balances and access to strategic resources; 2) The G7 for Africa and the Mediterranean: the common challenges of stability and growth; 3) Artificial intelligence, Cyber-security and protection of national interests: the role of Parliaments in the digital transition. At the end of the meeting, the adoption of a final Declaration is expected. This news item shows the meeting at the margin of the G7 Speakers conference between Roberta METSOLA, EP President, and Yaël BRAUN-PIVET, President of the French National Assembly.

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, to Verona (Italy) - G7 Speakers conference: bilateral meeting with Yaël BRAUN-PIVET, Speaker of the French National Assembly

As part of the Italian presidency of the G7, the Chamber of Deputies hosts the 22nd Meeting of the Presidents of the Lower Houses of the G7 Countries and of the European Parliament. Roberta METSOLA, EP President and Ruslan STEFANCHUK, President of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, open the inaugural session of the G7 Speakers conference in Verona (Italy). The works takes place in Verona from 5 to 7 September 2024 and focuses on the following themes: 1) Security and Development: new geopolitical balances and access to strategic resources; 2) The G7 for Africa and the Mediterranean: the common challenges of stability and growth; 3) Artificial intelligence, Cyber-security and protection of national interests: the role of Parliaments in the digital transition. Opening address by Ruslan STEFANCHUK, President of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine.

G7 Speakers conference in Verona (Italy): opening address by Ruslan STEFANCHUK, President of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine

As part of the Italian presidency of the G7, the Chamber of Deputies hosts the 22nd Meeting of the Presidents of the Lower Houses of the G7 Countries and of the European Parliament. Roberta METSOLA, EP President and Ruslan STEFANCHUK, President of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, open the inaugural session of the G7 Speakers conference in Verona (Italy). The meeting takes place in Verona from 5 to 7 September 2024 and focuses on the following themes: 1) Security and Development: new geopolitical balances and access to strategic resources; 2) The G7 for Africa and the Mediterranean: the common challenges of stability and growth; 3) Artificial intelligence, Cyber-security and protection of national interests: the role of Parliaments in the digital transition.

G7 Speakers conference in Verona (Italy): opening address by Roberta METSOLA, EP President

As part of the Italian presidency of the G7, the Chamber of Deputies host the 22nd Meeting of the Presidents of the Lower Houses of the G7 Countries and of the European Parliament. The works take place in Verona from 5 to 7 September 2024 and focus on the following themes: 1) Security and Development: new geopolitical balances and access to strategic resources; 2) The G7 for Africa and the Mediterranean: the common challenges of stability and growth; 3) Artificial intelligence, Cyber-security and protection of national interests: the role of Parliaments in the digital transition. At the end of the meeting, the adoption of a final Declaration is expected. This news item shows extracts from inaugural session of the G7 Speakers conference and the family photo with the presence of Roberta METSOLA, EP President in Verona (Italy).

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, to Verona (Italy) - G7 Speakers conference: extracts from the inaugural session and family photo

As part of the Italian presidency of the G7, the Chamber of Deputies host the 22nd Meeting of the Presidents of the Lower Houses of the G7 Countries and of the European Parliament. The works take place in Verona from 5 to 7 September 2024. This news shows the arrival of Lorenzo FONTANA, President of the Italian Chamber of Deputies, of Roberta METSOLA, EP President, and of Mike JOHNSON, Speaker of the House of Representatives of the United States of America.

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, to Verona - G7 Speakers conference: meetings with Mike JOHNSON, Speaker of the House of Representatives of the United States of America and with Lorenzo FONTANA, Italian Chamber of Deputies President

EP President Roberta Metsola attends the opening ceremony of the G7 Speakers conference in Verona, where the Chamber of Deputies hosts the 22nd Meeting of the Presidents of the Lower Houses of the G7 Countries and the European Parliament as part of Italy's G7 presidency. The discussions, held from 5 to 7 September 2024, center on key themes: 1) Security and Development—new geopolitical balances and access to strategic resources; 2) The G7 for Africa and the Mediterranean—common challenges in stability and growth; and 3) Artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and the protection of national interests, with parliaments playing a key role in the digital transition. A final Declaration is expected at the conclusion of the meeting.

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, to Verona (Italy) - G7 Speakers conference: extracts from the opening ceremony in the presence of Sergio MATTARELLA, President of Italy

On the sidelines of the 22nd Meeting of the Presidents of the Lower Houses of the G7 Countries and of the European Parliament which take place in Verona, Roberta METSOLA, EP President meets with Ruslan STEFANCHUK, Speaker of the Ukrainian Parliament (Verkhovna Rada).

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, to Verona (Italy) - G7 Speakers conference: bilateral meeting with Ruslan STEFANCHUK, Speaker of the Ukrainian Parliament (Verkhovna Rada)

Arrivals and roundtable at the extraordinary meeting of the Conference of Presidents. EP President Roberta METSOLA and the political group leaders have an exchange of views with Mario DRAGHI, in his capacity as special adviser to the President of the Commission, on the report on the future of European Union competitiveness.

Extraordinary meeting of the Conference of Presidents in presence of Mario DRAGHI, special adviser to the President of the Commission on the future of European Competitiveness: arrivals and roundtable

On the occasion of her official visit to Poland, EP President Roberta METSOLA participates in a questions and answers session in the "The Future of Poland 2024" event, at the University of Warmia and Mazury.

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President to Olsztyn (Poland): questions and answers with Roberta METSOLA, EP President, at "The Future of Poland 2024" event, at the University of Warmia and Mazury

On the occasion of her official visit to Poland, EP President Roberta METSOLA makes a statement during her participation in the "The Future of Poland 2024" event, at the University of Warmia and Mazury.

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President to Olsztyn (Poland): statement by Roberta METSOLA at "The Future of Poland 2024" event, at the University of Warmia and Mazury

On the occasion of her official visit to Poland, EP President Roberta METSOLA participates to the "The Future of Poland 2024" event, at the University of Warmia and Mazury where she makes a statement and participates in a questions and answers session, with Rafal TRZASKOWSKI, Mayor of Warsaw. Roberta METSOLA, EP President talks about her commitment to a strong rule of law in Poland, the priorities of the new Parliament, the Artificial Intelligence Act, the situation in Gaza.

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President to Olsztyn (Poland): extracts from the participation to "The Future of Poland 2024" event at the University of Warmia and Mazury

On the occasion of her official visit to Poland, EP President Roberta METSOLA meets with Donald TUSK, Polish Prime Minister at the building of the Chancellery of the Prime Minister in Warsaw.

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President to Warsaw (Poland): arrival and meeting with Donald TUSK, Polish Prime Minister

Since Russia launched its all-out invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the European Union has continued to stand by Ukrainian people, welcoming refugees, providing defence equipment and financial aid. The war has had devastating effects across Ukrainian society and for many young Ukrainians, it has severely disrupted their education. 
 
With the support of EU funding, Kamil, an IT professor in Czechia, has been setting up the Digital University platform to allow Ukrainian students to continue learning online.
And Olena has continued her education in the EU as an Erasmus+ student and a young European ambassador in Gdańsk, Poland.

Ensuring education for Ukrainians in times of war: Meet Kamil and Olena - 9:16

Since Russia launched its all-out invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the European Union has continued to stand by Ukrainian people, welcoming refugees, providing defence equipment and financial aid. The war has had devastating effects across Ukrainian society and for many young Ukrainians, it has severely disrupted their education. 

With the support of EU funding, Kamil, an IT professor in Czechia, has been setting up the Digital University platform to allow Ukrainian students to continue learning online.

And Olena has continued her education in the EU as an Erasmus+ student and a young European ambassador in Gdańsk, Poland.

Ensuring education for Ukrainians in times of war: Meet Kamil and Olena

To mark Ukraine Independence Day on the night of the 24th August 2024, the European Parliament lights up its "Station Europe" building, on Place du Luxembourg in Brussels, with the colors of the Ukrainian flag.

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