At a glance: EU deforestation law delayed until the end of 2025; MEPs highlight global setbacks in women’s rights; and the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs examines financial services for women.

Uutisia Euroopan parlamentista – 05/12/2024 - suomi

At a glance: EU Leaders head to Warsaw for Polish Presidency of the Council of the EU prep; the Subcommittee on Security and Defence will meet the first EU Defence Commissioner and a landmark EU survey on violence against women released.

Uutisia Euroopan parlamentista – 04/12/2024 - suomi

At a glance: European Central Bank President, Christine Lagarde, to hold her second monetary dialogue of the 10th legislative term; MEPs to review child rights on the 35th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child; and the Development Committee to discuss food insecurity with experts.

Uutisia Euroopan parlamentista – 03/12/2024 - suomi

At a glance: Parliament to hold first Ukraine Facility Dialogue on EUR 50 billion EU support programme; the role of EU trade policy in reducing dependencies and boosting sustainability; and Disability Rights Week.

Uutisia Euroopan parlamentista – 02/12/2024 - suomi

HIV oli vielä 1980-luvulla kuolemaan johtava tauti, mutta nykyisin sitä voidaan hallita hoidon ja ennaltaehkäisyn maailmanlaajuisen kehityksen ansiosta. Tähän mennessä tartunnan on saanut maailmanlaajuisesti yli 88 miljoonaa ihmistä ja noin 42 miljoonaa on kuollut tautiin. Nykyisin HIV-tartunnan saaneita ihmisiä on noin 40 miljoonaa, joista arviolta 810 000 EU:ssa. Terveydenhuoltojärjestelmät ovat kunkin EU-maan omalla vastuulla. EU kuitenkin tukee niitä rajat ylittävillä ohjelmilla, rahoittamalla tutkimusta Horisontti Eurooppa -ohjelman kautta sekä tukemalla kansanterveyskampanjoita. EU on myös sitoutunut YK:n yhteisen AIDS-ohjelman 95–95–95-tavoitteisiin. Tavoitteena on, että vuoteen 2025 mennessä HIV-tartunnan saaneista 95 prosenttia tietää tartunnastaan, diagnoosin saaneista 95 prosenttia saa hoitoa ja hoitoa saavista 95 prosentilla viruskuorma on alle mittausrajan. Tässä Lainsäädäntö paremmaksi -podcastissa tarkastelemme EU:n keskeistä roolia HIV:n ennaltaehkäisyssä, leimautumisen torjunnassa ja elämänlaadun parantamisessa kaikissa EU-maissa. Tavoitteena on HIV-vapaa tulevaisuus vuoteen 2030 mennessä.

Hävitetään HIV-epidemia vuoteen 2030 mennessä

At a glance: Parliament approves over EUR 116 million in aid for flood recovery in Germany and Italy and calls for expanded solidarity fund; MEPs demand accountability for irregularities in Georgia’s disputed parliamentary elections; MEPs and the Commission discuss strengthening children’s rights on 35th anniversary of UN Convention.

Uutisia Euroopan parlamentista – 29/11/2024 - suomi

At a glance: Parliament approves the College of Commissioners; MEPs vote for the 2025 EU  budget; MEPS debate the targeting of Baltic Sea critical infrastructure.

Uutisia Euroopan parlamentista – 28/11/2024 - suomi

At a glance: President Metsola calls for stronger EU action to end violence against women; Parliament reaffirms its unwavering support for Ukraine amid ongoing Russian aggression; MEPs to discuss strengthening children’s rights on 35th anniversary of UN convention.

Uutisia Euroopan parlamentista – 27/11/2024 - suomi

At a glance: Parliament to vote on the new European Commission tomorrow; MEPs will vote on the 2025 EU budget and debate the outcomes of the COP29 climate conference

Uutisia Euroopan parlamentista – 26/11/2024 - suomi

At a glance: a new European Parliament plenary session kicks off in Strasbourg today; Parliament and the Commission discuss the crisis in the Middle East; MEPs to debate Baltic Sea infrastructure sabotage and address violence against women.

Uutisia Euroopan parlamentista – 25/11/2024 - suomi

Monivuotinen rahoituskehys on pohjimmiltaan Euroopan unionin pitkän aikavälin talousarviosuunnitelma. Siinä asetetaan EU:n menoprioriteetit ja -rajat useiksi vuosiksi ja varmistetaan, että EU:n taloudelliset resurssit ovat EU:n poliittisten ja taloudellisten tavoitteiden mukaisia. Monivuotinen rahoituskehys luo rakenteen vuotuisille talousarvioille ja auttaa tasapainottamaan EU:n jäsenvaltioiden kilpailevia etuja.
Kehyksestä kohdennetaan taloudellisia resursseja useille eri aloille, kuten vähemmän kehittyneiden alueiden rahoitukseen, tukiin ja maaseudun kehittämiseen, humanitaariseen apuun, vihreään ja digitaaliseen siirtymään sekä EU:n ulkopolitiikkaan tehtäviin investointeihin.

Monivuotinen rahoituskehys

At a glance: a new Parliament plenary session kicks off next week in Strasbourg; today, Parliament President Roberta Metsola is in Malta.

Uutisia Euroopan parlamentista – 22/11/2024 - suomi

At a glance: MEPs are preparing for next week’s Strasbourg plenary session; this week is the European Week for Waste Reduction.

Uutisia Euroopan parlamentista – 21/11/2024 - suomi

At a glance: the European Parliament marked 1000 days of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine; MEPs are preparing for the next plenary session which is planned for next week in Strasbourg.

Uutisia Euroopan parlamentista – 20/11/2024 - suomi

At a glance: MEPs push for global climate financing at COP29; Parliament’s Subcommittee on Public Health to tackle child healthcare challenges; and European Parliament President, Roberta Metsola, meets with the Secretaries-General of EU national parliaments, the Prime Minister of Romania and the President of the Assembly of North Macedonia.

Uutisia Euroopan parlamentista – 19/11/2024 - suomi

At a glance: Parliament to hold a special plenary session in Brussels marking 1 000 days of Russia’s war against Ukraine; the European Parliament sets demands for COP29 climate action goals; and MEPs approve postponing enforcement of deforestation law by one year.

Uutisia Euroopan parlamentista – 18/11/2024 - suomi

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

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

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

EU - Italy

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

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

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

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

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

EU - Israel

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

EU - Palestine

The European Parliament’s Conference of Presidents (President and political groups’ leaders) welcomed&nbsp;the recent ceasefire in Gaza and the progress it represents for the phased release of hostages. This development is a significant step in reducing the immense suffering endured by civilians on both sides over the past months.

US and Qatari mediators announced that Hamas and Israel agreed to a ceasefire, which began&nbsp;on 19 January. The deal includes the withdrawal of Israeli forces from all populated areas of Gaza, the release of hostages held by Hamas, and the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Palestinians that have fled&nbsp;parts of Gaza will also be able to return home.

It is estimated that Israel has killed more than 40,000 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. Commission President von der Leyen has also said that EU should actively engage with all actors in the Middle East region to work towards a two-state solution to the conflict.

Situation in Israel and Gaza

The policies of the EU on climate and energy are described, as well as the challenges that must be faced in order to achieve the Paris Agreement target of keeping the increase in global temperature well below 2°C and to pursue efforts to achieve 1.5°C.

The EU faces major challenges from the increased threats of climate change, with serious consequences in the energy sector, where urgent issues are arising concerning the national production mix of each Member State. The renewable energy share needs to be increased, and energy efficiency needs to be improved.

Climate change (2019-2020)

Climate change remains a key challenge. The EU and the European Parliament are working to ensure a more sustainable society and economy through ambitious policies at home and close cooperation with international partners. It is already on track to meet its greenhouse gas emissions reduction target for 2020, and has put forward a plan to further cut emissions by at least 55% by 2030.

By 2050, Europe aims to become the world’s first climate-neutral continent. Alongside reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the EU is also taking action to adapt to the impacts of climate change. By 2050, Europe aims to be a climate-resilient society. Climate action is at the heart of the European Green Deal – an ambitious package of measures ranging from drastically cutting greenhouse gas emissions, to investing in cutting-edge research and innovation, to preserving Europe’s natural environment.

Climate change

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

Luxembourg is a founding member of the European Union

The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg is a member of the eurozone since 1 January 1999 and of the Schengen area since 26 March 1995.

Luxembourg City, together with Brussels and Strasbourg, is one of the three official seats of the European institutions. There are 6 members of the European Parliament from Luxembourg.

EU - Luxembourg

Belgium is a founding member of the European Union

Belgium is member of the Schengen area since 26 March 1995 and of the Eurozone since 1 January 1999.

The country's capital, Brussels, is together with Luxembourg City and Strasbourg, one of the three official seats of the European institutions. Belgium is a constitutional monarchy in which the King is head of state and the Prime Minister is the head of the government.

EU - Belgium

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.

INTA - Committee on International Trade

Montenegro is one of the Western Balkan countries.

In 2008, Montenegro applied for EU membership, and accession negotiations began in 2012. Montenegro has opened all 33 negotiation chapters, three of which have been provisionally closed. Public opinion surveys show that 75 % of the population support the country’s accession to the European Union.

EU - Montenegro

EMPL - Committee on Employment and Social Affairs

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

<center>Image: ©Clara</center>

 

International Women’s Day is held every year on 8 March. Equality between women and men is one of the objectives of the European Union.

Over time, legislation, case-law and changes to the Treates have helped shore up this principle and its implementation in the EU. The European Parliament has always been a fervent defender of the principle of equality between men and women.

On this occassion, Ivana Andrés and Alba Redondo from the Spanish women’s national football team, which won the 2023 World Cup addressed the EP Plenary in Strasbourg on 12 March 2024.

President Metsola said International Women’s Day is not only a moment to recognise the achievements of women and girls across the world. It should also be a call to action to strengthen gender equality across all spheres of our society. Seeing it as an invitation for societies to do better, President Metsola said: “The time is now for the European Union to lead by example - to set standards in criminalising violence against women, to improve access to justice, and to ratify the Istanbul Convention before the end of this term.

International Women’s Day

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

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

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

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

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

Violence against women

The Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO) Committee meets with TikTok representatives to discuss the platform's adherence to the EU's Digital Services Act (DSA), particularly in the context of recent European elections. Caroline Greer, TikTok’s Director of Public Policy, and Brie Pegum, Global Head of Product, Authenticity and Transparency, will address questions on how the company ensures a safe and transparent online space during election periods.

MEPs focus on TikTok's risk management strategies to combat disinformation, manage recommender systems, and provide third-party data access, especially concerning Romania's ongoing elections. The DSA, in full effect since February 2024, requires platforms to tackle illegal content and societal risks proactively. This exchange reflects Parliament's commitment to ensuring compliance with EU rules and safeguarding democratic processes.

IMCO Debate on the compliance of TikTok with the EU Digital Services Act

EP President Roberta Metsola meets Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa

MEPs approve a deal on 2025’s EU budget to address current challenges and managing repayment costs for the EU’s recovery plan.
During negotiations with member states, Parliament obtained more than €230 million in funding beyond the Commission's initial draft proposal, to better focus on key EU programmes and policies aimed at improving people's lives, boosting competitiveness, and addressing challenges like climate, health, migration or defence. Negotiators also agreed on a solution to cover repayment costs for the European Union Recovery Instrument (EURI).
The preliminary figures are €199.44 billion in commitment appropriations and €155.21 billion in payment appropriations.

EU Budget for 2025

Following a debate with President-elect Ursula von der Leyen on her team and programme, MEPs will vote on approving the new College of Commissioners. Parliament’s committees subjected each Commissioner-designate to individual public hearings  between 4 and 12 November. MEPs assessed their suitability to become Commissioners, as well as their ability to carry out the duties linked to their respective portfolios. Parliament’s Conference of Presidents (President Metsola and the political groups’ leaders) declared the Commissioner-designate hearings process complete on Wednesday 20 November. 

The full Parliament vote on the entire list of candidates in a roll call vote. To be confirmed, the College of Commissioners needs the endorsement of a majority of the votes cast (rule 129(7) of the EP Rules of Procedure). Any political group or at least one-twentieth of MEPs (low threshold) may table a motion for a resolution. Once elected by Parliament and after its formal appointment by the European Council via a qualified majority, the new European Commission is expected to take up its duties on 1 December 2024.

Presentation by the Commission President-elect of the College of Commissioners and its programme

MEPs and the Commission discuss the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the West Bank, the role of UNRWA, and the need to release all hostages.

With violence in the Middle East intensifying with Israel’s attacks on Hamas and Hezbollah targets in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, humanitarian organizations are warning of the growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the West Bank. According to UN sources, the number of aid shipments into the Gaza Strip is now lower than at any time over the past year and there is “a strong likelihood that famine is imminent in areas within the northern Gaza Strip.” MEPs will also discuss the essential role of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees UNRWA in the region. In his statement of 1 November 2024, EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell emphasised UNRWA's life-saving work in Gaza.

MEPs adopted a number of resolutions in the last 12 months, calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, and the unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid.

Continued escalation in the Middle East: the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the West Bank, UNRWA’s essential role in the region and the need to release all hostages

MEPs reaffirm their strong support for Ukraine and criticise the military cooperation between Russia and North Korea, in a resolution.

When addressing the European Parliament on Tuesday 19 November, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that “Putin has brought 11,000 North Korean troops to Ukraine’s border” (...) and that “the contingent may grow to 100,0000”. Many of these troops have recently been reported as having been deployed as part of Russia’s airborne units and marines in the Kursk region, another growing sign of the increasing military cooperation between the regimes in Moscow and Pyongyang.

A statement issued by Parliament’s leaders on 19 November 2024 called on the EU to “step up support for Ukraine in every way, including politically, financially, militarily and with humanitarian aid” and reiterated that “we stand with and support Ukraine in every possible way until its victory.”

Reinforcing EU’s unwavering support to Ukraine against Russia’s war of aggression and the increasing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia

MEPs discuss the state of play and emerging trends in the combat against violence against women within the EU and internationally. On International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (25 November), MEPs highlight the persistence of gender-based violence across the world and call on the new Commission to act. They underscore the need to fully implement existing EU legislation and stand firm in the face of a growing backlash against gender equality and women’s rights.  

In April 2024, the European Parliament approved the first ever EU rules on combating violence against women and domestic violence. Member states have until 14 June 2027 to make the necessary changes in their national legislation. With support from the European Parliament, on 1 October 2023 the EU joined the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence.

International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola conducts an official visit to Paris, underscoring the strong ties between the European Union and France. During her visit, Metsola holds high-level discussions with Yaël Braun-Pivet, President of the Assemblée Nationale, and Michel Barnier, the French Prime Minister, focusing on European priorities and France’s role within the Union.

The Assemblée Nationale plays a crucial role in France’s legislative process, shaping national policies, while the Prime Minister coordinates national policy. The visit reflects the mutual commitment to strengthening cooperation on key issues affecting Europe’s future.

Roberta METSOLA, EP President Official visit to Paris (France)

The European Parliament holds an extraordinary plenary session to mark 1,000 days since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, underscoring its steadfast support for the country. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addresses MEPs, following a statement by EP President Roberta Metsola. Political group leaders also participate, highlighting the Parliament’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and democracy.

Since the invasion began in February 2022, the EU has strongly condemned Russian aggression, implemented robust sanctions, and provided extensive humanitarian, military, and financial aid. Parliament remains a key advocate for Ukraine’s EU membership and calls for the use of frozen Russian assets to compensate for the destruction caused by the war.  

The Parliament has adopted more than 40 resolutions since 2021, emphasizing its ongoing support for Ukraine, including temporary trade liberalization, sanctions enforcement, and preparations for EU accession talks. This extraordinary session reinforces the EU’s solidarity with Ukraine and its dedication to achieving a just and lasting peace.

Extraordinary Plenary Sitting - 1000 days of Russia´s invasion of Ukraine

The UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) takes place from 11 to 22 November 2024 in Baku, Azerbaijan, bringing together global leaders and climate experts to establish a new post-2025 framework for climate finance and advance international climate action. The European Parliament participates from 18 to 22 November, contributing to discussions on EU climate commitments, financial support for sustainable development, and a fair climate finance goal that aligns with the polluter-pays principle and leverages diverse financial resources.

Key priorities at COP29 include defining finance mechanisms for developing countries, updating climate targets for 2025, and boosting global cooperation on carbon markets and emissions trading. The European Parliament underscores the importance of this conference as an opportunity for the EU to strengthen climate finance, particularly for vulnerable regions, and to support a stable mechanism for reliable, predictable climate funding.

European Parliament delegation to COP 29 in Baku, Azerbaijan

The EU’s recent report on strengthening Europe’s civilian and defense preparedness addresses the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, rising geopolitical tensions, and climate impacts. It emphasizes a unified approach to crisis management, with stronger cooperation across EU member states and greater integration of civilian and military roles. To enhance security across Europe, the report recommends improving cross-border coordination, speeding up crisis response, and increasing public awareness and engagement. It also stresses the importance of partnerships, particularly with NATO and allies like Ukraine, in facing multifaceted threats. Citizens and private sectors are crucial in building resilience, whether through voluntary involvement or the provision of critical infrastructure. The EU must also balance efficiency with readiness, ensuring resources are in place for future crises. By investing in crisis-resilient supply chains and security infrastructure, the EU aims to create a stronger, unified front for enduring security.

Enhancing Europe’s civilian and defence preparedness and readiness

The UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) takes place from 11 to 22 November 2024 in Baku, Azerbaijan, gathering world leaders and climate experts to define a new global goal for climate finance and advance climate action. A delegation from the European Parliament will participate from 18 to 22 November to contribute to discussions on the EU's climate commitments and financial support for sustainable development worldwide.

COP29’s key objective is to establish a post-2025 framework for climate finance as nations update their commitments under the Paris Agreement, due in early 2025. On Monday, 21 October, Parliament’s Environment, Public Health and Food Safety Committee adopted a resolution with 54 votes in favor, 23 against, and four abstentions, outlining the EU's stance. MEPs call on all countries to set a socially fair and equitable climate finance goal, aligned with the polluter-pays principle and incorporating diverse public, private, and innovative financial resources.

The resolution further urges the EU to create a stable finance mechanism to ensure reliable support for its climate finance obligations, reinforcing the EU's leadership role in global climate action and the importance of predictable funding for effective climate policies. Parliament will soon vote on the resolution during the plenary session, setting the EU’s expectations and priorities for COP29.

UN Climate Change Conference 2024 in Baku, Azerbaijan (COP29)

Following the 2024 U.S. presidential election, which sees Donald Trump and JD Vance defeating Kamala Harris and Tim Walz, the European Parliament debates the future of EU-U.S. relations under the new administration. With Trump set to be inaugurated in January 2025, MEPs assess how this shift affects shared priorities. As the EU seeks stable transatlantic relations, MEPs consider how to engage with the new administration to address challenges and leverage opportunities for both regions.

EU-US relations in the light of the outcome of the US presidential elections

In response to the devastating floods in Spain that have claimed over 200 lives, the European Parliament debates measures to strengthen the EU’s resilience to extreme weather events and provide support to those impacted by the disaster. This new item, added to the agenda  plenary approval, is discussed by MEPs following a tribute to the victims.

The debate focuses on enhancing the EU’s crisis response, particularly in regions increasingly vulnerable to such climate-driven events. This session underscores the EU's commitment to improving climate adaptation efforts across member states.

The devastating floods in Spain, the urgent need to support the victims, to improve preparedness and to fight the climate crisis

Henna Virkkunen is a Finnish Member of the European Parliament since 2014. She is now Executive Vice-President-designate of the European Commission for Tech-Sovereignty, Security and Democracy, for the von der Leyen Commission II.

Confirmation hearing of Henna VIRKKUNEN, Executive Vice-President designate, Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy

Teresa RIBERA RODRÍGUEZ was the Third Deputy Spanish Prime Minister and Minister for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge. She is now Executive Vice-President-designate of the European Commission for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition, for the von der Leyen Commission II.

Confirmation hearing of Teresa RIBERA RODRÍGUEZ, Executive Vice-President designate, Clean, Just and Competitive Transition

Roxana Mînzatu was Romanian Minister for European Funds in 2019. From January 2022 until July 2024, she served as Secretary of State coordinating the Department for Integrated Evaluation and Monitoring of Public Funded Programs. She is Member of the European Parliament since July 2024 but now, she is Executive Vice-President-designate of the European Commission for People, Skills and Preparedness, for the von der Leyen Commission II.

Confirmation hearing of Roxana MÎNZATU, Executive Vice-President designate, People, Skills and Preparedness

Stéphane Séjourné was a Member of the European Parliament from 2019 to 2024, Chair of the Renew Europe Group of the European Parliament in 2021 and French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs in 2024. He is now Executive Vice-President-designate of the European Commission for Prosperity and Industrial Strategy, for the von der Leyen Commission II.

Confirmation hearing of Stéphane SÉJOURNÉ, Executive VIce-President designate, Prosperity and Industrial Strategy

Euroscola

Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs

ECON

Subcommittee Constitutive meeting on Public Health

SANT

Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development

AGRI

Committee on Constitutional Affairs

AFCO

Committee on Legal Affairs

JURI

Committee on International Trade

INTA

Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality Joint meeting FEMM-LIBE Joint committee meeting

LIBE

FEMM

Committee on Employment and Social Affairs Joint meeting Joint ECON-EMPL Meeting: Economic Dialogue on the European Semester

EMPL

Committee on Budgetary Control

CONT

Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality

Committee on Development

DEVE

Committee on Petitions ICM

PETI

Committee on Employment and Social Affairs

Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection

IMCO

Committee on Regional Development

REGI

Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety

ENVI

Committee on Fisheries

PECH

Subcommittee on Human Rights

DROI

Roberta METSOLA, EP President meets with Badr Ahmed Mohamed ABDELATTY, Egyptian Minister for Foreign Affairs

Press briefing ECR

EP Plenary session - Geopolitical and economic implications for the transatlantic relations under the new Trump administration

EP Plenary session - Voting session

Press briefing The Left

Press  briefing Greens/EFA

Press briefing Renew Europe

Press briefing S&D Group

Press briefing EPP

EP Plenary session - The need to enforce the Digital Services Act to protect democracy on social media platforms against foreign interference and biased algorithms

EP Plenary session - Powering Europe’s future - advancing the fusion industry for energy independence and innovation

EP Plenary session - Heat record year 2024 - the need for climate action to fight global warming

Meeting of the European Parliament's Bureau

EP Plenary session - Ceasefire in Gaza - the urgent need to release the hostages, to end the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and to pave the way for a two-state solution

EP Plenary session - Resumption of session and order of business

Last minute briefing

Pre-session briefing

Roberta METSOLA, EP President, participates in the FEDIL 2025 New Year Reception (Luxembourg)

The day after Donald Trump’s inauguration on 20 January, MEPs discuss the implications of his second term for transatlantic relations, with representatives from the Polish Council Presidency and the Commission. The debate focus on support for Ukraine, relations with Russia, China, the Middle East, climate change, and trade. MEPs bring up security issues, in light of Donald Trump’s repeated demands that Europe spend more on defence. Speaking in the Committee on Foreign Affairs recently, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte warned MEPs that “NATO’s current two percent defence spending target is not nearly enough (...) to stay safe.”

Geopolitical and economic implications for the transatlantic relations under the new Trump administration: MEPs debate (part 2)

Geopolitical and economic implications for the transatlantic relations under the new Trump administration: MEPs debate (part 3)

Geopolitical and economic implications for the transatlantic relations under the new Trump administration: MEPs debate (part 1)

&lt;p>The day after Donald Trump’s inauguration on 20 January, MEPs discuss the implications of his second term for transatlantic relations, with representatives from the Polish Council Presidency and the Commission. The debate focus on support for Ukraine, relations with Russia, China, the Middle East, climate change, and trade. MEPs bring up security issues, in light of Donald Trump’s repeated demands that Europe spend more on defence. Speaking in the Committee on Foreign Affairs recently, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte warned MEPs that “NATO’s current two percent defence spending target is not nearly enough (...) to stay safe.”Opening statements by Adam SZŁAPKA, Polish Minister for European Affairs, and Maroš ŠEFČOVIČ, European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, and European Commissioner for Interinstitutional Relations and Transparency&lt;&lt;/p>

Geopolitical and economic implications for the transatlantic relations under the new Trump administration: Opening statements by Adam SZŁAPKA, Polish Minister for European Affairs, and Maroš ŠEFČOVIČ, European Commissioner

Karlo Ressler (LIBE A10-0027/2024) - EU/Republic of Serbia agreement on operational activities carried out by the European Border and Coast Guard Agency in the Republic of Serbia

EU/Republic of Serbia agreement on operational activities carried out by the European Border and Coast Guard Agency in the Republic of Serbia: Voting session

Manon AUBRY (The Left, FR) The Left Group Co-Leader, holds a press conference in the framework of the EP plenary session. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Press briefing The Left by Manon AUBRY (The Left, FR) The Left Group Co-Leader

Bas EICKHOUT (Greens/EFA, NL), and Terry REINTKE (Greens/EFA,DE), Greens/EFA Group Co-Leaders, hold a press conference in the framework of the EP plenary session. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Press briefing by Bas EICKHOUT (Greens/EFA, NL), and Terry REINTKE (Greens/EFA,DE), Greens/EFA Group Co-Leaders

Valerie HAYER (Renew, FR), Renew Europe Group Leader, holds a press conference in the framework of the EP plenary session. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Press briefing by Valerie HAYER (Renew, FR), Renew Europe Group Leader

Iratxe GARCIA PEREZ (S&D, ES), S&D Group Leader, holds a press conference in the framework of the EP plenary session. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Press briefing by Iratxe GARCIA PEREZ (S&D, ES), S&D Group Leader

Manfred WEBER (EPP, DE), EPP Group Leader, holds a press conference in the framework of the EP plenary session. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Press briefing by Manfred WEBER (EPP, DE), EPP Group Leader

MEPs discuss the need to enforce the Digital Services Act (DSA) and tackle the spread of illegal content, online disinformation, and other societal risks to safeguard European democracy from foreign interference and algorithmic manipulation. Closing statement by Henna VIRKKUNEN, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy and by Adam SZŁAPKA, Polish Minister for European Affairs. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Need to enforce the Digital Services Act to protect democracy on social media platforms including against foreign interference and distorted algorithms: Closing statements by Henna VIRKKUNEN and Adam SZLAPKA

MEPs discuss the need to enforce the Digital Services Act (DSA) and tackle the spread of illegal content, online disinformation, and other societal risks to safeguard European democracy from foreign interference and algorithmic manipulation.

Need to enforce the Digital Services Act to protect democracy on social media platforms including against foreign interference and distorted algorithms: MEPs debate (part 4)

Need to enforce the Digital Services Act to protect democracy on social media platforms including against foreign interference and distorted algorithms: MEPs debate (part 3)

Need to enforce the Digital Services Act to protect democracy on social media platforms including against foreign interference and distorted algorithms: MEPs debate (part 2)

EP President, Roberta METSOLA, President-in-Office of the Council, Adam SZLAPKAMEP, and Executive Vice-President of the Commission, Henna VIRKKUNEN open the debate with the MEPs on the Digital Services Act (DSA). They discuss the need to enforce the DSA and tackle the spread of illegal content, online disinformation, and other societal risks to safeguard European democracy from foreign interference and algorithmic manipulation.

The need to enforce the Digital Services Act to protect democracy on social media platforms: extracts from the debate

Need to enforce the Digital Services Act to protect democracy on social media platforms including against foreign interference and distorted algorithms: One round of political group speakers

Need to enforce the Digital Services Act to protect democracy on social media platforms including against foreign interference and distorted algorithms: MEPs debate (part 1)

MEPs discuss the need to enforce the Digital Services Act (DSA) and tackle the spread of illegal content, online disinformation, and other societal risks to safeguard European democracy from foreign interference and algorithmic manipulation. Opening statement by Adam SZLAPKA, Polish Minister for European Affairs and Henna VIRKKUNEN, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

The need to enforce the Digital Services Act to protect democracy on social media platforms: opening statements by Adam SZŁAPKA, Polish Minister for EU Affairs, and Henna VIRKKUNEN, Executive VP of the European Commission for Tech Sovereignty

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