At a glance: Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán presented the programme for his country’s six-month Presidency of the Council of the EU; MEPs approved over EUR 1 billion euro in EU Solidarity Fund aid to support five EU countries; Parliament debated affordable housing in Europe.

Uutisia Euroopan parlamentista – 10/10/2024 - suomi

Ahead of the autumn 2024 Commissioners-designate hearings, Parliament has adapted the rules for the process, which will apply for the members of the second von der Leyen College. Since the 2004 investiture, Parliament has used its role in appointing the Commission to replace certain controversial candidates and force adjustments to certain portfolios, although according to the Treaties Parliament can only reject or accept the College as a whole. Confirmation hearings have become critical for Parliament to hold the Commission accountable, and have gained prominence as a tool for Parliament to take a greater role in EU agenda-setting.

EPRS policy podcast - Confirmation hearings of the Commissioners-designate

EPRS policy podcast - European Parliament's scrutiny of the European Council: The use of Parliament resolutions

At a glance: the European Parliament marked the first anniversary of the Hamas terrorist attacks in Israel; Parliament’s priorities for the next European Council meeting; and the crisis facing the EU’s automotive industry.

Uutisia Euroopan parlamentista – 09/10/2024 - suomi

At a glance: Prime Minister Viktor Orbán to present the priorities of the Hungarian presidency of the Council of the EU; Parliament to hold a debate on affordable housing in Europe and on how to boost security at the EU’s external borders.

Uutisia Euroopan parlamentista – 08/10/2024 - suomi

At a glance: Parliament’s plenary session starts today in Strasbourg. Tomorrow, MEPs will focus on the situation in the Middle East. They will also outline Parliament’s priorities for the October European Council meeting and are set to approve over EUR 1 billion in EU Solidarity Fund aid for five EU countries.

Uutisia Euroopan parlamentista – 07/10/2024 - suomi

At a glance: the hearings of the Commissioners-designate, the results of the Eurobarometer Survey and the Clean Transition Dialogues.

Uutisia Euroopan parlamentista – 04/10/2024 - suomi

At a glance: the European Parliament’s political groups are preparing for the next plenary session; European Parliament President Roberta Metsola met UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Uutisia Euroopan parlamentista – 03/10/2024 - suomi

At a glance: Parliament will publish the first Eurobarometer survey since the elections; a workshop on food price inflation; and the Committee on Culture and Education will hear a presentation about the House of European History Museum.

Uutisia Euroopan parlamentista – 02/10/2024 - suomi

LUX-yleisöpalkinnon 2025 viisi finalistielokuvaa ovat:  Animal, Dahomey, Flow, Intercepted ja Julie Keeps Quiet.
LUX-yleisöpalkinto nostaa esiin elokuvia, joissa käsitellään sosiaalisia ja poliittisia aiheita. Palkinnon tavoitteena on kannustaa keskusteluun ja pohdintaan sekä vahvistaa eurooppalaista identiteettiä elokuvan keinoin.

LUX – eurooppalainen yleisöelokuvapalkinto 2025

At a glance: preparations are ongoing for the hearings of the Commissioners-designate; discussions have taken place on the financial assistance package for Ukraine; the Chief Prosecutor of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office has met with members of Parliament’s Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs.

Uutisia Euroopan parlamentista – 01/10/2024 - suomi

At a glance: the first Monetary Dialogue of the 10th parliamentary term with ECB President Christine Lagarde; the Reform Agendas of the Western Balkans countries seeking EU membership; and breast cancer awareness month.

Uutisia Euroopan parlamentista – 30/09/2024 - suomi

At a glance: the announcement of the nominees for the 2024 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought; a financial assistance package for Ukraine; and the Subcommittee on Public Health will mark World Heart Day.

Uutisia Euroopan parlamentista – 27/09/2024 - suomi

At a glance: the exchange of views between the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety and the Hungarian State Secretary for Environmental Affairs; mobilising the EU Solidarity Fund for five Member States; and Multilingualism Day at the European Parliament.

Uutisia Euroopan parlamentista – 26/09/2024 - suomi

At a glance: The nominations for the 2024 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought; the European Researchers’ Night; and the European Week of Sport.

Uutisia Euroopan parlamentista – 25/09/2024 - suomi

At a glance: President Metsola concludes her visit to the UN General Assembly in New York; the Subcommittee on Human Rights discusses the situation in Bangladesh; and a new study on EU oceans and fisheries policy.

Uutisia Euroopan parlamentista – 24/09/2024 - suomi

During the plenary session in November II 2019, Ursula von der Leyen,&nbsp;President-elect of the EC, presents her team and programme. Parliament voted the entire list of candidates proposed by the President-elect and the Council by simple majority in a roll call vote. The college of Commissioners and their programme is approved. Results of the vote: 461 in favour, 157 against and 89 abstentions.

Parliament’s Conference of Presidents declared the Commissioner-designate hearings process complete on Thursday 21 November 2019.

The new European Commission officially takes up its duties on 1 December 2019.

Election of the 2019-2024 Commission

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

During October plenary &nbsp;Parliament will assessed the escalating violence in the Middle East and the latest developments in Lebanon. with EU foreign policy chief Borrell.&nbsp;MEPs debated also with the Commission the anniversary of the Hamas terrorist attack that killed 1,200 Israelis on 7 October 2023 and triggered the current war in Gaza and wider Middle East destabilisation.

While around 100 Israeli hostages remain unaccounted for, the numbers of victims in Gaza rises every day, and the war is escalating as Israel has begun ground attacks on Hezbollah inside Lebanon. In retaliation for Israel’s attacks on Hezbollah and on Hamas in Gaza, Iran has fired ballistic missiles on Israel.

The EU remains fully committed to efforts to avert a regional war, according to High Representative Borrell. Furthermore, he called on the EU to pledge to prevent Lebanon’s state institutions from collapsing, to look for a political response to the conflict and has urged for a global alliance to implement the two-state solution for Palestine and Israel. MEPs adopted a number of resolutions in the last 12 months, calling for an&nbsp;immediate and permanent ceasefire, the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and the unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, 40,000 Palestinians have been killed since October 2023 as a result of Israel’s response to the attack by Hamas.

Situation in Israel and Gaza

Mario&nbsp;Draghi, formerly the President of the European Central Bank and Prime Minister of Italy, was tasked by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen with presenting ideas on the future of European competitiveness. 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.

European competitiveness

Cancer is the second leading cause of mortality in the EU, after cardiovascular diseases. Each year there are 3.5 million new diagnoses; and every year 1.3 million people die from cancer, accounting for 25% of all deaths. If the current trend continues, the projection is that by 2035 cancer cases will have doubled in number, and cancer will have become the leading cause of death in the EU.

Though public health is the primary responsibility of the Member States, the EU has a strong role in supporting, coordinating and complementing Member States’ efforts. On 4 February 2020 – World Cancer Day – the European Commission started its outreach on Europe’s Cancer Plan at an event in the European Parliament in Brussels.

The Plan aims to reduce the cancer burden for patients and families, and health care systems. The Plan is ambitious in addressing cancer-related inequalities between and in the Member States. The European Parliament, as law-maker and policy-maker, plays an active role in shaping the new Cancer Plan and related legislative proposals and policy initiatives.

Fight against cancer

GMO stands for genetically modified organisms. They are organisms whose genetic material has been artificially modified in order to give it a new property. For example, this could be to make it easier for a plant to resist a disease, insects or drought, or to increase crop productivity.

The EU's GMO legislation stems from 1990 when the first two directives concerning GMOs came into force. Both original directives have since been updated, but the definition of a GMO has remained unchanged. This is causing problems for new techniques developed since then. New plant genetic modification techniques, referred to as 'gene editing' or 'genome editing', have evolved rapidly in recent years, allowing much faster and more precise results than conventional plant-breeding techniques. They are seen as a promising, innovative field for the agri-food industry, offering great technical potential.There is, however, considerable debate as to how these new techniques should be regulated, and whether some or all of them should fall within the scope of EU legislation on genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

See more on this topic by visiting our <a href="https://multimedia.europarl.europa.eu/en/genetically-modified-organism-8th-parliamentary-term_6504_pk">package</a> for the 8th parliamentary term.

Genetically modified organism

Situated in the north-eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea and to the south of Turkey, Cyprus is the largest island in the eastern Mediterranean as well as being the third smallest country in the EU, after Malta and Luxembourg. 

Cyprus’s main export partners are Greece, the UK and Israel, while its main import partners are Greece, Israel and the UK. 
There are 6 members of the European Parliament from Cyprus.

EU - Cyprus

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

Every five years, EU citizens choose who represents them in the European Parliament, the directly-elected institution that defends their interests in the EU decision-making process.

The European elections took place from 6th to 9th of June 2024.

The elections take place every five years and are the largest transnational elections in the world. By voting in the European elections, people living in the EU get to choose the 720&nbsp;members that will represent them in the European Parliament until 2029.

Following the elections, Parliament votes to elect the new head of the European Commission, which is the EU’s executive body, and to approve the full team of commissioners.

EU-vaalit 2024

Malta joined the European Union 1st May 2004 and it has been a member of the Schengen area since 21st December 2007.

Malta is a single-chamber parliamentary republic with a head of government - the prime minister - and a head of state - the president - whose role is largely ceremonial. The country is divided into 5 regions. Each has its own regional committee, which serves as the intermediary between local and national government.

There are 6 members of the European Parliament from Malta.

EU - Malta

The EU’s 2021-2027 long-term budget, together with NextGenerationEU, amounts to €1.8 trillion. This unprecedented response will help repair the economic and social damage caused by the coronavirus pandemic and aid the transition towards a modern, more sustainable Europe.

The package consists of the long-term budget (the 2021-2027 MFF multiannual financial framework) of €1.074 trillion, combined with the temporary recovery instrument NextGenerationEU of €750 billion.

It was adopted by the European Parliament on 16 December 2020.

MEPs negotiated major top-ups for EU flagship programmes like Health, Horizon (Research), Erasmus+ and supported also a roadmap introducing new sources of EU revenue. This roadmap is part of the ‘Interinstitutional Agreement’, a legally binding text. In addition to the contribution made as of 2021, based on how much unrecycled plastic a country has, the roadmap includes an ETS (Emissions Trading System)-based Own Resource (from 2023, possibly linked with a carbon border adjustment mechanism). It also includes a digital levy (from 2023) and a Financial Transaction Tax-based Own Resource, as well as a financial contribution that the corporate sector must make or a new common corporate tax base (from 2026).

Parliament also approved in its February 2024 session, the revision of the EU’s long-term budget.

This includes the €50 billion Ukraine Facility and the “Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform” (STEP), which aims to make the EU more strategically independent and to foster innovation. It also enables the EU budget to respond more effectively to evolving needs and unforeseen circumstances. In particular, it bolsters the EU’s budget to deal with migration and external challenges as well as the EU's crisis preparedness and budgetary flexibility. In line with Parliament’s demands, the revision introduces a mechanism to tackle escalating costs linked to the repayment of the NextGenerationEU recovery plan amid rising interest rates.

EU Multiannual Financial Framework 2021-2027

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

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

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

Antonio TAJANI, EP President's Agenda

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.

ITRE - Committee on Industry, Research and Energy

After a series of special committees and a committee of inquiry, created to delve into the various tax leaks and scandals of recent years, Parliament established a more permanent setup to shed light on the matter.

The Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) subcommittee on tax matters, FISC, will be composed of 30 members. It will deal particularly with the fight against tax fraud, tax evasion and tax avoidance, as well as financial transparency for taxation purposes.

The constituent meeting will take place on Wednesday, 23 September 2020.

FISC - Subcommittee on Tax Matters

Parliament approves the EU’s €35 billion contribution to the G7 plan to provide Ukraine with financial assistance of up to €45 billion. Parliament debates and votes on the new Macro-Financial Assistance (MFA) loan, which seeks to support Ukraine with up to €35 billion in the face of Russia’s brutal war of aggression. The MFA loan is the EU’s contribution to the G7 initiative, agreed last June, to provide Ukraine with up to $50 billion (approximately €45 billion). The extraordinary revenues generated from immobilised Russian Central Bank assets, facilitated by the newly established Ukraine Loan Cooperation Mechanism, will ensure this exceptional MFA loan is repaid, as well as loans from other G7 countries.

Establishing the Ukraine Loan Cooperation Mechanism and providing exceptional macro-financial assistance to Ukraine

The Parliament looks into strategies to modernise the EU’s single market and support employees while ensuring inclusive growth and competitiveness. Enrico Letta presents his report on strengthening the EU’s internal market, with a focus on supporting a fair digital and green transition, security, fostering jobs, cohesion and the social dimension. Letta’s presentation will be followed by a debate among MEPs.

Empowering the Single Market to deliver a sustainable future and prosperity for all EU citizens

International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

Roberta Metsola European Parliament President meets with Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine, during his official visit to the European Parliament in Brussels. The meeting marks a significant moment as both leaders discuss ongoing support for Ukraine amid Russia's aggression. The visit includes a formal welcome ceremony with national anthems and high-level talks on strategic cooperation between Ukraine and the EU.

Prior to his visit to the European Parliament, Zelenskyy participated in the European Council summit, where EU leaders focused on key issues, including Ukraine's defense and security strategy. During his Brussels visit, Zelenskyy presents his "plan for victory," a comprehensive strategy that emphasizes Ukraine’s NATO membership, strengthening defense, deterring future Russian aggression, fostering economic growth, and building a robust security architecture post-war. This visit underscores the continued European commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and long-term security.

Roberta Metsola, EP President meets with Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine

The Foreign Affairs and Development committees vote to shortlist three finalists for the 2024 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought. David McAllister, AFET Chair, Barry Andrews, DEVE Chair, and Mounir Satouri, DROI Chair, give statements after the announcement.

The Sakharov Prize is the EU's highest tribute to human rights work, recognizing those who contribute to protecting freedom of thought. The candidates include María Corina Machado and President-elect Edmundo González Urrutia from Venezuela, Yael Admi and Reem Hajajreh from the “Women Wage Peace” and “Women of the Sun” movement in Israel/Palestine, Elon Musk from the United States, Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu from Azerbaijan, and journalists in Palestine including Hamza and Wael Al-Dahdouh, Plestia Alaqad, Shireen Abu Akleh, and Ain Media. The Conference of Presidents selects the winner on 24 October, and the award ceremony takes place on 18 December in Strasbourg.

Announcement of the 3 finalists for Sakharov Prize 2024

European Parliament President Roberta Metsoal participates in the European Council meeting on 17-18 October 2024. EU leaders meet in Brussels to discuss key topics such as Russia’s war in Ukraine, the situation in the Middle East, competitiveness, migration, and foreign affairs. Discussions focus on military and humanitarian support for Ukraine, efforts to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East, and enhancing Europe’s industrial and technological competitiveness. Leaders also address migration policies and preparations for upcoming climate and biodiversity conferences.

Roberta METSOLA, EP President at the European Council Meeting (17-18 October)

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola meets with Estonia’s Prime Minister Kristen Michal, followed by a joint press point. Kristen Michal became Prime Minister in July 2024 and is a member of the Reform Party and has previously held key ministerial positions, including Minister of Justice and Minister of Economic Affairs. Estonia, an EU member since 2004, plays an important role in the Union, having adopted the euro in 2011 and previously held the Council of the EU Presidency in 2017. This meeting reinforces the strong cooperation between Estonia and the European Union.

Roberta METSOLA, EP President meets with meets Kristen MICHAL, Estonian Prime Minister

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola visits Vienna for a series of high-level meetings. During her visit, she meets with Wolfgang Sobotka, President of the National Council of Austria, and receives the Grand Decoration of Honour for Services to the Republic of Austria, the country’s highest award, recognizing her significant contributions to EU-Austria relations. Metsola also holds a joint press point with Sobotka before meeting with Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer. The visit underscores the strong ties between the European Union and Austria, focusing on key areas of cooperation and shared priorities.

Roberta METSOLA, EP President official visit to Vienna (Austria)

Mental health has become a major issue of public health, economic and social concern across the whole EU. The COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent economic crisis have placed a huge strain on everyone's mental health (higher rates of stress, anxiety and depression), with a  severe impact on vulnerable populations, with inequalities in mental health, both within the population and between social groups. Young people's mental health has particularly suffered.
In its last resolution of 5 July 2022 on mental health in the digital world of work, Parliament pointed out that 64 % of young people between 18 and 34 were at risk of depression in 2021, due to a lack of employment and financial and educational prospects, as well as loneliness and social isolation.

World Mental Health Day - need for a comprehensive EU strategy on mental health

The Conference of Presidents meets to confirm the details of the calendar for the confirmation hearings of Commissioners-designate, a crucial step in the approval process of the new European Commission. The Conference of Presidents, led by the EP President and political group leaders, oversees Parliament's legislative planning, committee responsibilities, and relations with EU institutions. This meeting play a key role in setting the Parliament’s agenda.

Meeting of the Conference of Presidents

MEPs delve into the management of Europe’s external borders and the role of the EU Border and Coast Guard Agency.  
Migratory pressures towards Europe are expected to increase and cross border-crime will continue to evolve in the context of geopolitical instabilities in the EU’s neighbourhood, requiring enhanced border management. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen told Parliament in July that Frontex could further increase its staff to 30 000 agents. MEPs quiz the Commission on technological solutions and possible changes to Frontex’s mandate. They are also likely to raise the issue of the instrumentalisation of migrants by third countries as well as fundamental rights violations at the EU’s borders.
This debate take place against the backdrop of the EU and its member states continuing to prepare for the implementation of the Pact on Migration and Asylum and, in particular the screening regulation, to improve security checks for persons arriving in the EU irregularly and speed up asylum and return procedures for those not entitled to international protection.

Strengthening the security of Europe’s external borders: need for a comprehensive approach and enhanced Frontex support

MEPs discuss with the Commission ways to encourage public and private investment in decent and affordable housing in Europe. Ahead of her confirmation as Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen said in a statement before Parliament on 18 July that Europe faces a housing crisis and announced she would appoint a Commissioner to be directly responsible for this issue. Danish Minister for Development Cooperation and Global Climate Policy Dan Jørgensen is the Commissioner-designate for Housing and Energy.
As part of its Renovation Wave Strategy, the Commission launched an Affordable Housing Initiative in October 2023. Before that, in January 2021, Parliament called on the EU to recognise access to decent and affordable housing as an enforceable human right.

Ensuring sustainable, decent and affordable housing in Europe

MEPs discuss with Prime Minister Viktor Orbán the programme for Hungary’s six-month Council Presidency that started on 1 July 2024.The Hungarian government has announced the following priorities for its six month Presidency: A new European competitiveness deal; Boosting European defence policy; A consistent and merit-based enlargement policy; Stemming illegal migration; Shaping the future of cohesion policy; A farmer-oriented EU agricultural policy; Addressing demographic challenges.


During the 2019-2024 legislative period, Parliament repeatedly denounced the Hungarian government’s deliberate and systematic efforts to undermine EU values and the threat it poses for EU institutions and funds. MEPs have expressed serious concerns about the Orbán government’s ability to credibly fulfil its role leading the Council. According to Parliament, the situation has worsened since the activation of the Article 7(1) procedure - to the point that Hungary can no longer be considered a full democracy.

Presentation of the programme of activities of the Hungarian Presidency

MEPs discuss the declining state of democracy in Georgia with EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell, ahead of a vote on a related resolution scheduled for Thursday. As the country prepares for parliamentary elections on 26 October, concerns have arisen over the ruling Georgian Dream party's increasingly authoritarian policies, particularly regarding media freedom and LGBTQ+ rights. Despite being granted EU candidate status in December 2023, the party has faced criticism for its crackdown on pro-democracy protests and for advancing a law labeling Western-funded media and NGOs as "foreign agents." If Georgian Dream secures a significant majority in the upcoming elections, there are fears that the multi-party system and political pluralism in Georgia could be further jeopardized.

Threats to political pluralism in Georgia

MEPs wengage in a debate with EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell regarding Russian attempts to interfere in Moldova's upcoming presidential elections. Following this discussion, a resolution addressing these concerns will be put to a vote on Thursday.

Moldova is set to hold its presidential election on 20 October 2024, coinciding with a referendum on EU membership. Senior Moldovan officials have raised alarms about Moscow's use of hybrid tactics aimed at undermining the country's pro-European government, led by President Maia Sandu, as it seeks to advance its EU integration following the granting of EU candidate status in June 2022.

Strengthening Moldova's resilience against Russian interference

MEPs address the ongoing crisis in the EU’s automotive industry, focusing on enhancing competitiveness and preventing potential plant closures. This discussion arises as the sector grapples with challenges stemming from the shift to low-carbon technologies, supply chain disruptions, heightened competition from Asia, and a decline in demand for electric vehicles. MEPs will engage with representatives from the Commission and the Hungarian Presidency to explore measures aimed at revitalizing the automotive sector.

The EU automotive industry, a historically significant sector employing 13.8 million people and contributing 8% of European manufacturing value, is currently at a pivotal moment. The transition towards electrification, with all new vehicles mandated to be zero emissions by 2035, alongside digitalization and global competition, necessitates a swift adaptation of business models. In 2023, while the EU produced 14.8 million vehicles, the industry faces the challenge of competing against emerging leaders like China. MEPs are expected to propose a resolution in a future session to address these urgent concerns and secure the future of this vital sector.

The crisis facing the EU’s automotive industry

Parliament evaluates the escalating violence in the Middle East and the latest developments in Lebanon with EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell. This discussion follows the anniversary of the Hamas terrorist attack that resulted in the deaths of 1,200 Israelis on 7 October 2023, and which has since triggered ongoing conflict in Gaza and broader regional instability.

As Israel intensifies ground operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon, around 100 Israeli hostages remain unaccounted for, and casualty numbers in Gaza continue to rise. In response to the conflict, Iran has launched ballistic missiles at Israel. High Representative Borrell has emphasized the EU's commitment to prevent a regional war. MEPs have previously called for an immediate ceasefire, the unconditional release of hostages, and unrestricted humanitarian aid access, with reports from the Gaza Health Ministry indicating that approximately 40,000 Palestinians have died since October 2023 due to Israel's response to the attack by Hamas.

Escalation of violence in the Middle East and the situation in Lebanon

MEPs convene to discuss the priorities for the upcoming October European Council, assessing the latest developments in the ongoing war in Ukraine and the escalating conflict in the Middle East with the Commission and the Hungarian Presidency. As the summit approaches on 17-18 October in Brussels, MEPs will deliberate on how the EU can enhance its support for Ukraine amidst Russian aggression and respond effectively to the ongoing Israeli operations in Gaza and Lebanon, alongside Iran's missile strikes on Israel.

Additionally, EU leaders will address strategies to bolster the European economy's competitiveness, inspired by Mario Draghi’s report advocating for increased public investment and extensive economic reforms. Migration management and border protection will also be key topics on the agenda, reflecting the EU's ongoing commitment to addressing complex challenges within the region.

Preparation of the European Council of 17-18 October 2024

11th EU – Republic of Tajikistan Parliamentary Cooperation Committee

Euro-Latin American Parliamentary Assembly (DLAT)

Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs

LIBE

Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development

AGRI

Committee on Foreign Affairs

AFET

Committee on Culture and Education

CULT

Committee on Employment and Social Affairs

EMPL

Committee meeting on International Trade

INTA

Committee on Petitions

PETI

Subcommittee meeting on Tax Matters

FISC

Committee on Industry, Research and Energy

ITRE

Committee meeting on Regional Development

REGI

Committee on Internal Market and Consumer Protection

IMCO

EP Plenary session - The outcome of the G20 Leaders' Summit

Meeting of the European Parliament's Bureau

EP Plenary session - International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women

EP Plenary session - Resumption of session and order of business

Last minute briefing

Interrnational Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women - ' Orange your world ', UN campaign to end violence against women and girls. European Parliament building in Strasbourg lights up in orange

Interrnational Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women - ' Orange your world ', UN campaign to end violence against women and girls. Orange flag displayed outside the EP building in Brussels and Strasbourg.

Trainee Alumni Network 2024

Visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President to Malta - Address to the Malta Diversity & Inclusion Charter conference on "Women on Boards"

Pre session briefing

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, to Paris (France) - 6th Trilateral Business Forum organised by MEDEF, BDI & Confindustria

LIBE the constitutive meeting of the LIBE Democracy, Rule of Law and Fundamental Rights Monitoring Group (DRFMG)

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, to Paris (France) - Meeting with Gerard LARCHER, President of the French Senate

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, to Paris (France) - Meeting with Michel BARNIER, French Prime Minister

Euroscola

COP29 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan - Meeting with members of the Azerbaijani Parliament

ITRE - Presentation of the Council Presidency’s programme - Exchange of views with Balázs HANKÓ, Hungarian Minister for Culture and Innovation

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, to Paris (France) - Meeting with Jean-Noel BARROT, French Minister of Foreign Affairs

MEPs reaffirm their strong support for Ukraine and criticise the military cooperation between Russia and North Korea in the war against Ukraine. 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”. First part of MEPs debate.

Reinforcing EU’s unwavering support to Ukraine and the increasing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia: MEPs debate (part 1)

This news item shows extracts of MEPs reaffirming their strong support for Ukraine and criticise the military cooperation between Russia and North Korea. 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. A statement issued by Parliament’s leaders recently called on the EU to “step up support for Ukraine in every way, including politically, financially, militarily and with humanitarian aid” and reiterated that the Parliament "stands with and support Ukraine in every possible way until its victory.”

Reinforcing EU’s unwavering support to Ukraine and the increasing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia: extracts from the debate

MEPs and the 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. MEPs also discuss the essential role of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees UNRWA in the region.

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: extracts from the debate

MEPs reaffirm their strong support for Ukraine and criticise the military cooperation between Russia and North Korea. A statement issued by Parliament’s leaders on 19 November 2024 called on the European Union 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”. Opening statements by János BÓKA, Hungarian Minister for European Affairs, and Didier REYNDERS, European Commissioner for Justice. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Reinforcing EU’s unwavering support to Ukraine and the increasing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia: Opening statements by János BÓKA, Hungarian Minister for European Affairs, and Didier REYNDERS, European Commissioner for Justice

MEPs review the results of the summit where world leaders discussed the incoming US administration, Israel’s war on Gaza and the war in Ukraine, among other topics. Leaders from the world’s twenty largest economies (G20) gathered in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on 18/19 November to discuss the world’s most pressing challenges. The focus of the summit was social inclusion, global governance reform, energy transitions and climate action as well as the international economic and political situation. Together, the G20 accounts for around 85% of world GDP. It consists of 19 countries and two regional bodies, the EU included. Closing statement by Margaritis SCHINAS, Vice-President of the European Commission in charge of promoting our European Way of Life

Outcome of the G20 Leaders' Summit: Closing statement by Margaritis SCHINAS, Vice-President of the European Commission in charge of promoting our European Way of Life

MEPs review the results of the summit where world leaders discussed the incoming US administration, Israel’s war on Gaza and the war in Ukraine, among other topics. Leaders from the world’s twenty largest economies (G20) gathered in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on 18/19 November to discuss the world’s most pressing challenges. The focus of the summit was social inclusion, global governance reform, energy transitions and climate action as well as the international economic and political situation. Together, the G20 accounts for around 85% of world GDP. It consists of 19 countries and two regional bodies, the EU included. MEPs debate.

Outcome of the G20 Leaders' Summit: MEPs debate

MEPs review the results of the summit where world leaders discussed the incoming US administration, Israel’s war on Gaza and the war in Ukraine, among other topics. Leaders from the world’s twenty largest economies (G20) gathered in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on 18/19 November to discuss the world’s most pressing challenges. The focus of the summit was social inclusion, global governance reform, energy transitions and climate action as well as the international economic and political situation. Together, the G20 accounts for around 85% of world GDP. It consists of 19 countries and two regional bodies, the EU included. Opening statement by Margaritis SCHINAS, Vice-President of the European Commission in charge of promoting our European Way of Life. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Outcome of the G20 Leaders' Summit: Opening statement by Margaritis SCHINAS, Vice-President of the European Commission in charge of promoting our European Way of Life

MEPs discuss on Monday 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.

International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women: MEPs Debate part 2

The European Parliament's building in Strasbourg lights up in orange for the International Day for the Elimination of violence against Women.Orange flag in front of the European Parliament buildings.

International Day for the Elimination of violence against Women: orange flags and lights at the European Parliament in Strasbourg

International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women: MEPs Debate part 1

This news item shows extracts from the MEPs debate on the state of play and emerging trends in the combat against violence against women within the EU and internationally on the occasion of the 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.

International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women: extracts from the debate

Roberta METSOLA, President of the European Parliament, gives a statement on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women during the plenary session in Strasbourg. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Statement by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

Exterior and interior shots of the European Parliament in Strasbourg.

EP Plenary session (25-28/11): editing shots (exterior and interior shots of the EP)

On the occasion of her visit to Malta, in the "Saint Albert the Great College", European Parliament President Roberta Metsola addresses to the Malta Diversity & Inclusion Charter conference on "Women on Boards".

Visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President to Malta: extracts from the address to the Malta Diversity & Inclusion Charter conference on "Women on Boards"

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola conducts an official visit to Paris, underscoring the strong ties between the European Union and France. She meets Gérard LARCHER, President of the French Senate and Jean-François RAPIN, Senator of France.

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, to Paris (France): Meeting with Gérard LARCHER, President of the French Senate

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola conducts an official visit to Paris, underscoring the strong ties between the European Union and France. She meets with Jean-Noël BARROT, French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs.

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, to Paris (France): Meeting with Jean-Noël BARROT, French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs

&lt;p>Roberta METSOLA, EP President delivers a speech at the 6th Trilateral Business Forum organised by MEDEF, BDI &amp; Confindustria in Paris. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.&lt;/p>

6th Trilateral Business Forum organised by MEDEF, BDI & Confindustria: speech by Roberta METSOLA, EP President

This news items shows closing statement by Lídia PEREIRA (EPP, PT), Chair of the EP Delegation and by Mohammed CHAHIM (S&D, NL), and meetings with delegations during the UN Climate Change Conference (COP29). It 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 contributes 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. The European Parliament underscores the importance of this conference as an opportunity for the European Union to strengthen climate finance, particularly for vulnerable regions, and to support a stable mechanism for reliable, predictable climate funding.

European Parliament Delegation to COP29: meetings with delegations and closing statements by Lídia PEREIRA (EPP, PT), Chair of the EP Delegation and by Mohammed CHAHIM (S&D, NL), Vice-Chair of the EP Delegation

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