At a glance: MEPs are set to lay out their expectations for next week’s NATO summit; freedom of assembly in Hungary and the rule of law in Spain are also on the plenary agenda.

Flash Informativo - 17/06/2025 - español

Sracfhéachaint: cuirtear tús leis an suí iomlánach in Strasbourg inniu. Pléifidh na Feisirí an Comhshocrú Eorpach nua um an Aigéan; tá an Pharlaimint chun síneadh a chur leis an gcomhaontú idir an tAontas agus an Úcráin faoi chúrsaí iompar ar bhóithre; beidh plé ag na Feisirí leis an gComhairle agus an Coimisiún faoi athbhreithniú ar an gcomhaontú idir an tAontas Eorpach agus Iosrael.

Flash Informativo - 16/06/2025 - español

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.

Flash Informativo - 13/06/2025 - español

At a glance: Parliament’s political groups are preparing for next week’s plenary session in Strasbourg; MEPs attend the UN Ocean Conference; and the 2025 edition of the European Youth Event kicks off tomorrow.

Flash Informativo - 12/06/2025 - español

At a glance: Parliament’s political groups are preparing for the next plenary session, which will start on Monday in Strasbourg; a public hearing on media freedom and journalist protection will take place; and the European Youth Event 2025 is just around the corner.

Flash Informativo - 11/06/2025 - español

At a glance: a public hearing on media freedom and the protection of journalists at Parliament’s Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs; a workshop on generative AI and copyright; and the agreement reached between Parliament and the Council to tackle non-sustainable fishing by non-EU countries.

Flash Informativo - 10/06/2025 - español

Aunque cada vez más personas son conscientes de la importancia de reciclar y se esfuerzan por hacerlo, en la Unión sigue sin reciclarse una buena parte de los residuos plásticos. En los últimos años la UE ha dado pasos importantes hacia una economía circular de los plásticos, pero todavía queda un largo recorrido para lograr un futuro libre de este material, por lo que todo el mundo tiene que aportar su granito de arena.

La lucha de la Unión contra la contaminación por plásticos: de la prohibición de artículos desechables a los microplásticos

At a glance: the new EU Preparedness Union Strategy; the first-ever EU Soil Monitoring Law; and MEPs deplore continued democratic backsliding and repression in Georgia.

Flash Informativo - 06/06/2025 - español

At a glance: EU Parliament leaders visited Copenhagen to discuss priorities for the next Danish EU Council Presidency; MEPs approved and extension of  the EU-Ukraine road transport deal to support trade and aid; Parliament’s Committee on Agriculture backed the first-ever EU rules on dog and cat welfare and traceability.

Flash Informativo - 05/06/2025 - español

At a glance: President Metsola and Parliament’s political group leaders were in Copenhagen to prepare for the upcoming Danish Presidency of the Council of the European Union; Yulia Navalnaya and leading members of Russia’s opposition will address MEPs; and a public hearing on artificial intelligence at the workplace.

Flash Informativo - 04/06/2025 - español

At a glance: the Foreign Affairs Committee will assess reform efforts in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, North Macedonia, and Georgia; a delegation of the Civil Liberties Committee concludes its visit in Slovakia; at the EuroLat in Peru, MEPs push for stronger EU-Latin American ties.

Flash Informativo - 03/06/2025 - español

At a glance: the vote on the first-ever Soil Monitoring Law; The Hungarian Forum Europaeum wins the 2025 European Charlemagne Youth Prize; an exchange of views on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Flash Informativo - 02/06/2025 - español

Mercosur es una alianza regional de países de América Latina y uno de los principales socios comerciales de la Unión Europea. La Unión ha intentado estrechar los lazos con Mercosur, pero no todo el mundo respalda esta idea.

Mercosur: oportunidades y retos para la Unión Europea

At a glance: a Security and Defence Committee delegation is in Norway for talks on Russian security threats; MEPs from the Special Committee on the European Democracy Shield conclude their visit to Moldova today; a Culture and Education Committee delegation will be in Los Angeles until tomorrow to meet various film industry associations.

Flash Informativo - 28/05/2025 - español

At a glance: a delegation of the International Trade Committee is in Washington DC to discuss EU-US political, trade and investment relations; a delegation of the Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs Committee is in the Canary Islands to learn about the island’s challenges in managing increased arrivals of migrants; MEPs from the Special Committee on the Housing Crisis in the EU are in Barcelona to gather information on how the city is addressing its housing issues.

Flash Informativo - 27/05/2025 - español

¿Tienes entre 18 y 30 años y estás buscando una oportunidad para ayudar a los demás, dentro y fuera de Europa?

Puedes hacerlo gracias a la financiación y el apoyo del Cuerpo Europeo de Solidaridad, que ayuda a personas jóvenes a participar en proyectos en el extranjero o en su propio país. 

Estos proyectos ofrecen experiencias estimulantes y enriquecedoras, así como la oportunidad de generar un cambio positivo mientras desarrollas tus habilidades y competencias.

Guía para participar en el Cuerpo Europeo de Solidaridad

The constitutive meetings of the European Parliament's standing committees and subcommittees take place in Brussels on the week from 27th to 31st january 2025. 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.

SEDE - Committee on Security and Defence

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.

BUDG - Committee on Budgets

The Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) is a committee of the European Parliament which is responsible for the regulation of financial services, the free movement of capital and payments, taxation and competition policies, oversight of the European Central Bank, and the international financial system. It is currently chaired by Irene Tinagli.

ECON - Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs

The EU and Jordan have a strong partnership across many sectors and have been linked through an Association Agreement since 2002. Furthermore, Jordan was the first Mediterranean partner country to conclude technical negotiations leading to an "Advanced Status" with the EU in 2010.

The European Union (EU) stands by the Jordanian people in their ongoing efforts to achieve democracy, respect for human rights, social justice, security and socio-economic development.

EU - Jordan

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

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

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

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

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

EU - Iran

The EU's passport-free travel space, known as the Schengen area, is one of the most tangible achievements of European integration. The Schengen area is one of the pillars of the European project.

The border-free Schengen Area guarantees free movement to more than 400 million EU citizens, along with non-EU nationals living in the EU or visiting the EU as tourists, exchange students or for business purposes (anyone legally present in the EU).

Free movement of persons enables every EU citizen to travel, work and live in an EU country without special formalities. Schengen underpins this freedom by enabling citizens to move around the Schengen Area without being subject to border checks.

Schengen area

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

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

&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;© Maelgoa / AdobeStock

Parliament&nbsp;established a Special Committee on the Housing Crisis, with a 12-month mandate, to propose solutions for decent, sustainable, and affordable housing for all European citizens. It has been tasked with mapping housing needs, analysing existing housing policies across the EU and contributing to the future implementation of the European affordable housing plan.

On 24 March 2025, Parliament’s Special Committee on the Housing Crisis hosted a conference with the Commission to discuss ways to ensure EU citizens can access affordable housing.

The conference launched&nbsp;the public debate on affordable housing and its findings will help inform a Parliament report on the topic, expected to be presented later this year.&nbsp;

HOUS - Special Committee on the Housing Crisis in the European Union

France is a semi-presidential republic with a head of government - the prime minister - appointed by the president who is the directly elected head of state.

France has been a member of the eurozone since 1 January 1999 and part of the Schengen area since 26 March 1995

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EU  - France

Austria has been an EU Member since 1st January 1995. Austria is a federal parliamentary republic with a head of government - the chancellor - and a head of state - the president.

Austria ihas also been a member of the Euro area since 1 January 1999 and a member of Schengen since December 1997.

There are 19 members of the European Parliament from Austria. The country held the EU Presidency in 1998, 2006 and 2018.

Austria consists of 9 states (Bundesländer). Both regional and federal governments exercise executive power. The federal Parliament consists of 2 chambers: the Lower House (Nationalrat) - directly elected - and the Upper House (Bundesrat) - elected by regional parliaments.

EU - Austria

The European Parliament has its seat in Strasbourg in France where the 12 monthly part-sessions, including the session at which the decision on the annual EU budget is taken, should be held.

Find in this package, audiovisual content of the activities of the European Parliament in Strasbourg such as atmosphere inside and outside the buildings and parliamentary work..

The European Parliament in Strasbourg

The EYE 2025 will take place on the 13 and 14 of June in Strasbourg. The EYE (European Youth Event) brings together thousands of young people from across the European Union and beyond, right at the heart of European democracy. The event is a unique opportunity for 16- to 30-year-olds to inspire and get inspired, to debate directly with Members of the European Parliament and other European decision-makers, and to exchange views with experts, activists, and content creators.

 

The use, reproduction, copying, or downloading of photos and videos featuring identifiable private person(s) by third parties is strictly prohibited without the prior consent of the person(s) depicted. The European Parliament disclaims any liability for the unauthorised use of such materials by third parties.

EYE2025

Clean energy is energy produced and consumed with a minimum of greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants.

The transition to clean energy requires large investments in all areas of energy use: electricity generation, transport, heating and cooling, and also industrial activities. Reducing energy demand by means of energy efficiency measures also helps to lower the emissions associated with energy use.

Clean energy

Nataša Pirc Musar, President of the Republic of Slovenia, meets with Roberta METSOLA, EP Preside, and addresses plenary in a formal sitting after the opening of the session. President of Slovenia, Nataša Pirc Musar, will outline her vision for the EU, in a formal sitting starting immediately after the opening. Born in 1968, Ms Pirc Musar has been President of Slovenia since December 2022. After graduating in law, she worked as a journalist for several years and was appointed as Slovenia’s Information Commissioner in 2005, a post she held for two five-year terms. Before becoming President, Pirc Musar also worked as an attorney.

Nataša PIRC MUSAR, President of the Republic of Slovenia, meets with Roberta METSOLA, EP President, and addresses the plenary

Roberta METSOLA, EP President meets with Italian President Sergio MATTARELLA. He an Italian politician and jurist who has served as the president of Italy since 2015. He is the longest-serving president in the history of the Italian Republic.

Roberta METSOLA, EP President meets with Italian President Sergio MATTARELLA

Roberta METSOLA, EP President Metsola meets with President of Czechia, Petr PAVEL. He has been president of the Eastern European Country since 2023. Prior to this, he held the position of Chairman of the NATO Military Committee from 2015 to 2018, and served as the Chief of the General Staff of the Czech Armed Forces between 2012 and 2015.

Roberta METSOLA, EP President, meets with President of Czechia Petr PAVEL

The presidents of the European Parliament and the European Commission attend the inauguration mass of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV at the Holy See in Vatican CIty State.

Roberta METSOLA, EP President attends the mass marking the beginning of the pontificate of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV in Rome

The European Parliament celebrates the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia by standing in solidarity with LGBTIQ+ communities around the world and promote equal rights and dignity for all. The 2025 theme is “No one left behind: equality, freedom and justice for all.”

International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT) 2025

Roberta METSOLA, EP President, participates in the meeting of the European Political Community, in Tirana (Albania). The sixth meeting of the European Political Community brings together leaders from across the continent in Tirana, Albania under the theme ‘New Europe in a new world: unity – cooperation – joint action’. Leaders meet in a plenary session dedicated to security challenges and a shared vision for the future of Europe. Three high-level roundtables take place around the following topics: Europe’s security and democratic resilience, including Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, competitiveness and economic security, mobility challenges and youth empowerment.

Roberta METSOLA, EP President participates in the European Political Community Summit in Tirana

EP President Roberta METSOLA delivers a Keynote Speech at the event "Europe at the Crossroads" - past and present, organized by the German public broadcasters ARD/ZDF, at the Representation of the State of Baden-Württemberg to the European Union in Brussels (Belgium).

Keynote speech by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, at the ARD/ZDF Event

Roberta METSOLA, EP President participates in the Conference of Speakers of European Union Parliaments in Budapest and gives a keynote speech

Roberta METSOLA, EP President participates in the Conference of Speakers of European Union Parliaments in Budapest

10:05 President Metsola gives Press Statement with the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides
10:10 President Metsola meets with the President of the Republic of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides
11:00 President Metsola participates in ‘Your Europe, Your Future: A dialogue with youth’ together with the President of the Republic of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides on the occasion of Europe Day

Roberta METSOLA, EP President: Official visit to Nicosia (Cyprus)

The open day in Brussels takes place on Saturday 10 May from 10:00 until 18:00 (last entrance is at 17:30). Visitors can see the plenary chamber, participate in talks about the work of the Parliament, check out information stands and take part in a variety of other activities.

On 9 May, Europeans celebrate Europe Day as 2025 marks the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration.

The Schuman Declaration laid the foundations for the European Union and paved the way for an unprecedented era of prosperity, peace, democracy, solidarity and cooperation in Europe.

EU Open day in Brussels

Roberta METSOLA, EP President participates in Europe Day celebrations in Luxembourg

12:00 President Metsola receives the Chancellor of Germany, Friedrich Merz

Roberta METSOLA, EP President receives the Chancellor of Germany, Friedrich Merz

A ceremony in plenary to commemorate the end of World War II in Europe take place on Wednesday at 11:30. 

Four war veterans, from Belgium, France and Poland, address Parliament. European Parliament’s President Roberta Metsola will open the ceremony. A musical interpretation of the European anthem will close the event.  In a separate debate on Thursday morning, MEPs discuss the legacy of the end of World War II: 80 years of freedom, democracy and security in Europe.

Commemoration of the 80 anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe

MEPs discuss with the Council and the Commission how the EU can contribute to achieving a just, sustainable and comprehensive peace deal for Ukraine.

The debate focuses on the EU’s political, financial and military support for Ukraine, and its role in efforts to secure a peace settlement that preserves Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and is based on international law. MEPs aunderline the importance of long-term commitment to Ukraine and the need for international coordination in building a lasting peace.

EU support for peace in Ukraine

Parliament debate  its recommendations ahead of the European Commission’s water resilience strategy.

MEPs discuss and vote on a draft report, prepared by the Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety, detailing how the EU should manage its water resources more efficiently and respond better to current challenges. The resulting resolution will serve as Parliament input to the European water resilience strategy soon to be put forward by the Commission.

The text calls for the introduction of sectoral targets for water efficiency and water abstraction (taking water from a surface or underground source), and highlights the need for adequate funding, better use of digital tools and artificial intelligence solutions. MEPs may also call on the EU to do more to reduce water pollution from pharmaceuticals, chemical pesticides and fertilisers, antibiotic-resistant bacteria, microplastics and chemicals, and to phase out “forever chemicals” (PFAS).

European Water Resilience Strategy

MEPs debate on Tuesday and vote on Wednesday on Parliament's vision for the next multiannual financial framework (MFF).
The parliamentarians call for a significantly more ambitious long-term EU budget to match EU citizens' expectations in an increasingly complex global landscape. They 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 text 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 be unveiled in July. The co-rapporteurs give a press conference on Wednesday at 14.00, following the vote in plenary.

Revamped long-term budget for the Union

Parliament debate and vote on a targeted change to CO2 emission performance standards for new cars and vans.

Plenary decides on Tuesday whether to apply its “urgent procedure” to proposed draft legislation that would allow car manufacturers comply with emissions obligations for the years 2025, 2026 and 2027 by averaging their performance over the whole three-year period, rather than being assessed on each year’s emissions individually. Ahead of the vote, political groups’ representatives will hold one round of short interventions.

If approved, MEPs are expected to vote on the substance of the proposal on Thursday. The aim of the proposed change is intended to provide support for Europe’s automotive sector, which is experiencing rapid technological changes and increasing competition.

The proposal is part of the Commission's industrial action plan for the European automotive sector, announced on 5 March 2025. It followed the strategic dialogue on the future of the automotive industry launched by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on 30 January 2025, which involved an open public consultation and discussions with the industry and other stakeholders to address the most pressing challenges facing the sector.

CO2 emission performance standards

MEPs discuss with the Commission and the Council a unified EU response to US trade measures, and global trade opportunities for the EU.

The debate in Parliament follows the global reaction to the US government’s decision to increase existing tariffs and impose new ones – and its subsequent postponement of their imposition.

MEPs consider the countermeasures adopted by the EU – which were later suspended as well. Plenary will also review EU trade opportunities elsewhere in the world. The EU has concluded deals with a number of countries and regional groupings, and talks are ongoing on several more potential trade deals.

Unified response to US trade measures

EP Plenary session - Strengthening rural areas in the EU through cohesion policy

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?

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

Euroscola

What does Team Europe’s support look like on the ground in Ukraine?

Committee on Constitutional Affairs Ordinary meeting Interparliamentary Committee Meeting

AFCO

Delegation for Relations with Israel Ordinary Meeting – Meeting with Representative from the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung

Panel for the Future of Science and Technology panel

Inter-Parliamentary Delegation – 19th EU-Albania Stabilisation and Association Parliamentary Committee (SAPC) Meeting (Session II)

Delegation for relations with the Federative Republic of Brazil INTER-PARLIAMENTARY DELEGATION EU-Brazil inter-parliamentary meeting

Plenary session

Delegation to the Pacific-EU Parliamentary Assembly Ordinary Meeting

DPAC

Delegation for Relations with the Mashreq Countries Ordinary Meeting

DMAS

Delegation for relations with Mercosur INTER-PARLIAMENTARY DELEGATION

DMER

Press conference by Ana Catarina MENDES (S&D, PT), rapporteur on the Commission&apos;s 2024 Rule of Law report

Inter-Parliamentary Delegation – 19th EU-Albania Stabilisation and Association Parliamentary Committee (SAPC) Meeting (Session I)

Delegation for relations with Belarus Ordinary meeting

SEDE extraordinary meeting

BUDG ECON - Recovery and Resilience Dialogue

HOUS - Exchange of views on the European Investment Bank (EIB) Group Action Plan for Affordable and Sustainable Housing with Ioannis Tsakiris, Vice-President of the EIB

Katarina BARLEY welcomes His Majesty King Abdullah II, King of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan at Strasbourg's Airport

EP Plenary session -  The human cost of Russia’s war against Ukraine and the urgent need to end Russian aggression

Meeting of the European Parliament's Bureau

EP Plenary session - State of play and follow-up two years after the PEGA recommendations and the illegal use of spyware

EP Plenary session - 40th anniversary of the Schengen area agreement

Press conference on the European Investment Bank Housing Action Plan for Affordable and Sustainable Housing

EP Plenary session - Resumption of session and order of business

Last minute briefing

Nikolas FARANTOURIS in the EP in Strasbourg

European Youth Event (EYE 2025) - Closing plenary session

European Youth Event (EYE 2025) - EYE village

European Youth Event (EYE 2025).- Panels, interactive workshops and activities

European Youth Event (EYE 2025) - Ambiance shots

Irene TINAGLI, (S&D, IT), Chair of the Special committee on the Housing Crisis in the European Union (HOUS) and Ioannis TSAKIRIS, Vice-President of the European Investment Bank (EIB), give a press conference on the Housing Action Plan for Affordable and Sustainable Housing. Parliament established the HOUS Committee with a 12-month mandate, to propose solutions for decent, sustainable, and affordable housing for all European citizens. It has been tasked with mapping housing needs, analysing existing housing policies across the EU and contributing to the future implementation of the European affordable housing plan. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Press conference by Irene TINAGLI, (S&D, IT), HOUS Committee Chair, and Ioannis TSAKIRIS, Vice-President of the EIB, on the Housing Action Plan for Affordable and Sustainable Housing

The EU's passport-free travel space, known as the Schengen area, celebrates this year the 40th anniversary of the signing of the Schengen Agreement. It now applies to 30 countries within the EU and beyond. Permanent internal border controls have been lifted between 29 countries. A revised Schengen Borders Code entered into force last year to adapt Schengen to the evolving geopolitical security landscape. Extracts from the plenary debate. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

40th anniversary of the Schengen area: extracts from the debate

Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, opens the plenary session in Strasbourg with a statement condemning the recent tragic events—the killing in Austria and the stabbing in French school. In her remarks, she expresses solidarity with the victims, their families, and the affected communities, underscoring the European Parliament's commitment to standing united against violence. Following her statement, Members of the European Parliament observe a minute of silence in the hemicycle to honor the victims. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Statement by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, on the killing in Austria and the stabbing in French school, followed by a minute of silence

Political group speakers make a statement at the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the signing of the Schengen Agreement. It now applies to 30 countries within the EU and beyond. Permanent internal border controls have been lifted between 29 countries. It is the world's largest area of free movement. Lifting the internal borders goes hand in hand with the strengthening of the EU's external borders. A revised Schengen Borders Code entered into force last year to adapt Schengen to the evolving geopolitical security landscape.

40th anniversary of the Schengen area agreement: one round of political group speakers

Roberta METSOLA, EP President, makes a statement at the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the signing of the Schengen Agreement. It now applies to 30 countries within the EU and beyond. Permanent internal border controls have been lifted between 29 countries. It is the world's largest area of free movement. Lifting the internal borders goes hand in hand with the strengthening of the EU's external borders. A revised Schengen Borders Code entered into force last year to adapt Schengen to the evolving geopolitical security landscape. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

40th anniversary of the Schengen area agreement: statement by Roberta METSOLA, EP President

Exterior and interior shots of the European Parliament during the EP Plenary session, with illustrations of buildings, flags, corridors with internal staff before the session, hemicycle with European Members.

EP Plenary session (16-19 June): editing shots (exterior and interior shots of the EP)

This video shows the activities at the EYE village of the European Youth Event (EYE) 2025. The European Parliament hosts around 8,500 young people from 153 countries in Strasbourg for the European Youth Event. Young citizens are able to engage in discussions with MEPs, Commissioners and other EU decision-makers as well as with experts, activists, and content creators.

The EYE 2025 - Day 2: activities at the EYE village

This video shows activities inside the European Parliament during the European Youth Event (EYE) 2025 with Daria NAVALNYA as VIP guest in the chamber, several stands and EYE volunteers welcome young citizens and give them opportunity to talk with MEPs, Commissioners and other EU decision-makers as well as with experts, activists, and content creators.

The EYE 2025 - Day 2: activities inside the European Parliament

Atmosphere shots and extracts from the European Youth Event (EYE) 2025. The European Parliament hosts around 8,500 young people from 153 countries in Strasbourg for the European Youth Event. Young citizens are able to engage in discussions with MEPs, Commissioners and other EU decision-makers as well as with experts, activists, and content creators.

The EYE 2025 - Day 1: activities inside the European Parliament

Atmosphere shots and extracts from the European Youth Event (EYE) 2025. The European Parliament hosts around 8,500 young people from 153 countries in Strasbourg for the European Youth Event. Young citizens are able to engage in discussions with MEPs, Commissioners and other EU decision-makers as well as with experts, activists, and content creators. Activities at the EYE village

The EYE 2025 - Day 1: activities at the EYE village

On 14 June 1985, five European ministers gathered on a riverboat to sign the Schengen Agreement and pave the way to passport-free travel in Europe.
29 countries are now part of the Schengen area, which allows people to cross internal borders without checks.
Let’s take a look at the evolution of one of the pillars of the European project, a symbol of EU unity and integration.

How Schengen opened up borders and opportunities for Europeans (16:9)

How Schengen opened up borders and opportunities for Europeans (short - 9:16)

How Schengen opened up borders and opportunities for Europeans (9:16)

How Schengen opened up borders and opportunities for Europeans (short 16:9)

Atmosphere shots and extracts from the opening of the European Youth Event (EYE) 2025. The European Parliament hosts around 8,500 young people from 153 countries in Strasbourg for the European Youth Event. Young citizens are able to engage in discussions with MEPs, Commissioners and other EU decision-makers as well as with experts, activists, and content creators. opening ceremony in EYE 25 Village with Sabine VERHEYEN, EP Vice President and Jeanne BARSEGHIAN , Mayor of Strasbourg city

The EYE 2025 - Day 1: atmosphere shots and extracts from the opening

Roberta METSOLA, President of the European Parliament particpates to the Annual Gala 2025 at the American Chamber of Commerce to the European Union and gives a keynote speech. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Annual Gala 2025 of the American Chamber of Commerce to the European Union: keynote speech by Roberta METSOLA, EP President

Fireside chat with Roberta METSOLA, EP President and Ana Botín, Executive Director, Banco Santander, at the "Reskilling Europe: a driver for growth and competitiveness" event

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