At a glance: third monetary dialogue with European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde; a new EU digital platform to facilitate international recruitment; strengthening the EU’s role at the UN.

Brèves – 21/03/2025 - français

Les forêts primaires et anciennes de l’Union européenne sont rares, petites et isolées. Elles couvrent moins de 3 % de la superficie forestière totale de l’Europe. Ce sont des écosystèmes restés presque intacts, où la nature évolue sans intervention humaine depuis des siècles. La faune y prospère comme elle l’a fait pendant des siècles. Ces forêts jouent un rôle essentiel: elles abritent une incroyable biodiversité, elles capturent et stockent le CO2, elles fournissent de l’eau douce, régulent les conditions climatiques locales et contribuent à la protection de la santé humaine. Elles abritent aussi de nombreuses espèces menacées.
Protéger les forêts européennes ne relève pas uniquement de la responsabilité des États membres. Il s’agit d'un engagement commun au niveau de l’Union. Le Parlement européen est au centre de ces efforts en tant que fervent défenseur de la préservation des forêts primaires et anciennes.

Préserver les forêts anciennes d’Europe pour les générations futures

At a glance: MEPs debate stronger protections for Europe’s forests; Parliament’s Environment and Internal Market Committees push for stricter vehicle recycling rules; the European Parliament and national parliaments discuss how to strengthen the EU’s human rights role at the UN.

Brèves – 20/03/2025 - français

At a glance: the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs will hold its third monetary dialogue with European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde; the Committee on International Trade will discuss the implications of the EU trade countermeasures taken in reaction to the US tariffs on EU products; the Committee on International Trade will also vote on two proposals to provide macro-financial assistance in loans to Egypt and Jordan.

Brèves – 19/03/2025 - français

At a glance: Magnus Brunner, the Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, talks to the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs; Judge Tomoko Akane, the President of the ICC, addresses the Human Rights Subcommittee and the Legal Affairs Committee; a delegation from Parliament’s Women’s Rights and Gender Equality Committee attends the 69th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women in New York.

Brèves – 18/03/2025 - français

At a glance: the Committee on Industry Research and Energy will focus on recent developments in energy policy; Parliament’s Committee on Employment and Social Affairs will discuss a Commission proposal on new rules for trainees; and the Committee on Transport and Tourism will address passenger rights in the context of multimodal journeys.

Brèves – 17/03/2025 - français

At a glance: the plenary session closed yesterday. In Strasbourg, Parliament reiterated that the EU must contribute to security guarantees for Ukraine; MEPs stressed that the EU must support Syria’s political transition; and Parliament approved an agreement on transferring air passenger name data from the EU to Canada.

Brèves – 14/03/2025 - français

At a glance: the plenary session is in full swing. In Strasbourg, MEPs vote on a proposal for strengthening European defence; Parliament adopts two resolutions on economic, social and employment priorities; and in the debating chamber, the Commission unveils the new Critical Medicines Act.

Brèves – 13/03/2025 - français

At a glance: a new plenary session is ongoing. In Strasbourg, MEPs outlined their priorities for the next European Council summit; Parliament marked International Women’s Day; and President Metsola spoke about the 35th anniversary of the assertion of state continuity by Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.

Brèves – 12/03/2025 - français

At a glance: a new plenary session is in progress; in Strasbourg, Parliament will reiterate its unwavering support for Ukraine; MEPs are set to call for the EU to use frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine and accelerate the phase out of Russian gas; Parliament will also outline the EU’s economic, social and employment strategy for 2025.

Brèves – 11/03/2025 - français

At a glance: a new plenary session is in progress. In Strasbourg, MEPs will debate EU security and defence following the Special European Council meeting; Parliament will discuss the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza; the European Commission is expected to present a new legal framework on the return of people who have no legal right to stay in the EU.

Brèves – 10/03/2025 - français

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

Brèves – 07/03/2025 - français

L’origine de la Journée internationale des droits des femmes remonte aux premiers mouvements ouvriers dans les années 1900. Le but de cette journée était alors de commémorer la lutte pour l’égalité entre les femmes et les hommes et de célébrer les progrès accomplis. C’est toujours le cas aujourd’hui. Le Parlement européen est l’un des plus ardents défenseurs de l’égalité de genre dans l’Union européenne. Il a adopté des résolutions essentielles pour protéger les droits des femmes, promouvoir l’égalité des chances et lutter contre la discrimination.

Journée internationale des droits des femmes

At a glance: MEPs are preparing for the next plenary session in Strasbourg where they will focus on women’s rights and European defence; Parliament will also tackle the phase out of Russian gas and confirm EU support for Ukraine; also on the agenda is how to bolster critical medicine supply chains in the EU.

Brèves – 06/03/2025 - français

At a glance: the European Council will convene in Brussels for a special summit on Ukraine and defence; in preparation for the summit, President Metsola met with NATO Secretary General Rutte and stressed the EU’s commitment to security and lasting peace in Ukraine; ahead of International Women’s Day, the Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality will hold a special meeting on security and peacebuilding.

Brèves – 05/03/2025 - français

At a glance: MEPs strengthen protective measures against child sexual abuse; Latvian film ‘Flow’ – one of the nominees for the LUX Audience Award – wins the 2025 Oscar for Best Animated Feature; the European Parliament launches a public consultation on rare diseases.

Brèves – 04/03/2025 - français

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

As part of the European Green Deal, with the European Climate Law, the EU has set itself a binding target of achieving climate neutrality by 2050. This requires current greenhouse gas emission levels to drop substantially in the next decades. As an intermediate step towards climate neutrality, the EU has raised its 2030 climate ambition, committing to cutting emissions by at least 55% by 2030.

On 18 April 2023, MEPs&nbsp; adopted the reform of EU´s Emissions Trading System including for aviation and the maritime sector, the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism and a new Social Climate fund. The&nbsp;deal on the reform of the Emissions Trading System (ETS)&nbsp;increases the ambition for 2030, phases out free allowances to companies and creates a separate new ETS II for fuel for road transport and buildings that will put a price on emissions from these sectors by 2027.

According to the&nbsp;agreement with EU countries, an EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) will be set up to ensure that importers of goods covered by the EU ETS would have to pay any price difference between the price paid for carbon in the country of production and the price of carbon allowances in the EU ETS. This will incentivise non-EU countries to increase their climate ambition and ensure that EU and global climate efforts are not undermined by production being relocated from the EU to countries with less ambitious policies.

A separate deal with member states&nbsp;sets up an EU Social Climate Fund to ensure that the climate transition will be fair and socially inclusive. Vulnerable households, micro-enterprises and transport users who are particularly affected by energy and transport poverty will benefit from the fund. When fully in place, it will be funded from auctioning ETS II allowances up to an amount of €65 billion, with an additional 25% covered by national resources (amounting to an estimated total of €86.7 billion).

As part of the "Fit for 55 " package, thePArliamnet has also adopted during MArch 2024, plans, already agreed upon with Council, to help reduce energy consumption and greenhouse-gas emissions from the buildings sector.

The proposed revision of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive aims to progressively reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and energy consumption in the EU building sector, and make it climate neutral by 2050. It also aims to have more worst-performing buildings renovated and improve information-sharing on energy performance.

More info:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/press-room/20240308IPR19003/energy-efficiency-of-buildings-meps-adopt-plans-to-decarbonise-the-sector">https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/press-room/20240308IPR19003/energy-efficiency-of-buildings-meps-adopt-plans-to-decarbonise-the-sector</a>

Fit for 55

The Republic of Ireland covers five-sixths of the island of Ireland. The north-eastern part of the island is Northern Ireland which is part of the United Kingdom. There are 11 members of the European Parliament from Ireland.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;plenary is&nbsp;commemorating&nbsp;the 25th anniversary of the Northern Ireland peace agreement on 29 March.&nbsp;&nbsp;Presidents Metsola, Michel and von der Leyen will take the floor, followed by a round of political groups interventions.

EU - Ireland

Croatia officially joined the EU on 1 July 2013.&nbsp;Croatia became&nbsp;the 20th&nbsp;member of the eurozone on January 1, 2023&nbsp;with the adoption fo the euro.

Croatia borders Bosnia and Herzegovina, Hungary, Montenegro, Serbia and Slovenia and has been an independent country since 1991. Croatia is a parliamentary republic in which the prime minister and the president represent the executive power and the state at home and abroad.

Croatia has 11 MEPs in the European Parliament.

EU - Croatia

MEPs elected Roberta Metsola (EPP, MT) on January 2022 as President of the European Parliament until 2024.

Roberta Metsola won the election in the first voting round, where she received an absolute majority of 458 votes out of 690 cast in the remote secret vote, among three candidates.&nbsp;

President Metsola is leading the Parliament in the second half of the current legislative term, until a new Parliament is constituted following the 2024 European Elections.

Born in Malta in 1979,&nbsp; Roberta Metsola who has been an MEP since 2013, is the youngest EP President ever elected. She became First Vice-President in November 2020, and was Parliament’s acting President after President Sassoli passed away on 11 January 2022.

She is the third female President of the European Parliament, after Simone Veil (1979-1982) and Nicole Fontaine (1999- 2002).

Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament 2022-2024

In July 2024&nbsp; MEPs re-elected Roberta Metsola (EPP, MT) as President of the European Parliament until 2027, with 562 votes in the first round. Roberta Metsola won the election in the first round of voting, where she received an absolute majority of 562 votes cast out of 699 by secret paper ballot, among two candidates. She will continue to lead Parliament for the first two and a half years of the 10th legislative term.

Born in Malta in 1979, Roberta Metsola has been an MEP since 2013.&nbsp;She was elected First Vice-President in November 2020, and was Parliament’s acting President after President Sassoli passed away on 11 January 2022. On 18 January 2022,&nbsp;she was elected President&nbsp;for the second half of the 9th legislative term. She is the third female President of the European Parliament, after&nbsp;Simone Veil&nbsp;(1979-1982) and Nicole Fontaine (1999-2002).

Addressing the House after she was elected, President Metsola said: “Together, we must stand up for the politics of hope, for the dream that is Europe. I want people to recapture a sense of belief and enthusiasm for our project. A belief to make our shared space safer, fairer, more just and more equal. A belief that together we are stronger and we are better. A belief that ours is a Europe for all.”

Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament 2024-2027

The constitutive meetings of the European Parliament's standing committees and subcommittees take place in Brussels on 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.

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

On 1 January 2007 Bulgaria joined the EU.

Bulgaria applied for membership of the European Union on 18th December 1995 and started its accession negociations in February 2000. The negociations were successfully concluded in December 2004 and the Accession Treaty was signed in April 2005.

EU - Bulgaria

The Euroscola programme in Strasbourg brings together pupils aged 14 and over from the 27 EU Member States, candidate countries and former Member States to simulate the work of the European Parliament by debating, taking sides, negotiating, amending and voting on real European issues. Pupils get an opportunity to exchange views with Members of the European Parliament and experts from this institution, to familiarise themselves with the workings of the European Union, to discuss democracy, fundamental rights, European values and to express their personal opinions on the decisions taken at the European Union level.

Euroscola

Minimum wages in all EU countries should allow for decent living and working standards, and member states should promote collective bargaining for pay.&nbsp; With 505 votes in favour, 92 against and 44 abstentions, Parliament adopted&nbsp;new legislation&nbsp;on adequate minimum wages in the EU during September plenary.

The EU law, agreed with the Council in June, aims to improve working and living conditions for all workers in the EU, as well as promoting economic and social progress. To this end, it establishes minimum requirements for the adequacy of statutory minimum&nbsp;wages as provided by national law and/or collective agreements, and enhances the effective access of workers to minimum wage protection.

The new directive will apply to all EU workers who have an employment contract or employment relationship. The EU countries in which the minimum wage is already protected exclusively via collective agreements will not be obliged to introduce these rules nor to make these agreements universally applicable.

EU wants to improve workers’ rights and working conditions across Europe, from working hours and parental leave to health and safety at work. The EU has put in place a set of labour rules to ensure strong social protection. They include minimum requirements on working conditions - such as working time, part-time work, workers’ rights - to information about important aspects of their employment and the posting of workers. They have become one of the cornerstones of Europe's social policies.&nbsp;

Working conditions

In June 2023 Parliament adopted its position for negotiations with member states on rules to integrate human rights and environmental impact into companies’ governance. Companies will be required to identify, and where necessary prevent, end or mitigate the negative impact of their activities on human rights and the environment such as on child labour, slavery, labour exploitation, pollution, environmental degradation and biodiversity loss.

They will also have to monitor and assess the impact of their value-chain partners including not only suppliers but also sale, distribution, transport, storage, waste-management and other areas.

The European Parliament has consistently called for more corporate accountability and mandatory due diligence legislation. The European Commission proposal was introduced on 23 February 2022. It complements other existing and upcoming legislative acts, such as the deforestation regulation, conflict minerals regulation and draft regulation prohibiting products made with forced labour.

Corporate Responsibility

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

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

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

European competitiveness

Portugal entered the European Economic Community on 1 January 1986, together with Spain. In the following years the economy of the Portugal progressed considerably as a result of the EU structural and cohesion funds.

On 1 December 2009, the Treaty of Lisbon, signed by European Member States on 13 December 2007 in the Jeronimos Monastery in Lisbon, entered into force. Portugal has 21 MEPs in the EP and has 12 votes in the European Council.

EU - Portugal

Animal, Dahomey, Flow, Intercepted, and Julie Keeps Quiet have been shortlisted for the 2025 Lux European Audience Film Award. The five shortlisted films were announced on Wednesday by the European Parliament first vice-president&nbsp;Sabine Verheyen&nbsp;(EPP, DE), and the chair of the Committee on Culture and Education&nbsp;Nela Riehl&nbsp;(Greens, EFA, DE).

The announcement event took place for the first time at the European Parliament in Strasbourg. Following the announcement, vice-president of the EP Sabine Verheyen said: "European cinema reflects the challenges and hopes of our society. This year's finalists, each in their distinct form, showcase the rich variety of the film world. They offer powerful perspectives on pressing issues such as women's rights, climate change, our history and the war in Ukraine. They pen up important conversations and inviting us to see the world through diverse lenses."

The LUX Audience Film Award is presented every year by the European Parliament and the European Film Academy, in partnership with the European Commission and Europa Cinemas. A symbol of the European Parliament’s commitment to culture, the Lux award continues to build cultural bridges across Europe, by putting the spotlight on films that go to the heart of the European public debate. The award aims to strengthen ties between politics and citizens, by inviting European audiences to become active protagonists and cast their vote for their favourite films.

Lux Audience Award 2025

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

MEPs will engage in a debate with the Commission focused on media pluralism, independent journalism and on combating the rising tide of disinformation. With fake news and coordinated disinformation campaigns increasingly used as tools for political interference the urgency of this discussion is heightened by recent incidents surrounding the June 2024 European elections and various national elections. The surge in disinformation has also been exacerbated by significant events such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the COVID-19 pandemic. In response, Ursula von der Leyen announced the introduction of a new European Democracy Shield aimed at countering foreign information manipulation.

The European Parliament has taken proactive steps to safeguard citizens from disinformation and foreign interference through legislative measures like the anti-SLAPP directive and the Media Freedom Act. The latter aims to protect editorial freedom from political interference while offering enhanced safeguards for journalists and their sources. The EU's broader strategy seeks to address the challenges posed by disinformation by strengthening cooperation among member states, enhancing accountability for online platforms, and establishing a robust regulatory framework under the Digital Services Act. This comprehensive approach aims to preserve democratic integrity and foster public trust amidst an increasingly complex information landscape.

Facing fake news, populism and disinformation in the EU

MEPs engage with the Commission to address the urgent need to combat gender-based violence in Europe. Amid ongoing high-profile trials in Italy and France related to violent crimes against women, discussions will likely emphasize the importance of establishing a common EU definition of consent. MEPs are also expected to request an update on the implementation of the recently adopted EU directive aimed at enhancing protections for victims and preventing violence, particularly domestic violence.

The new legislation includes provisions to prohibit female genital mutilation and forced marriage, along with measures targeting online offenses. With a commitment to prioritizing equality, MEPs will urge the Commission to ensure effective transposition of these rules across member states, highlighting the necessity for accessible healthcare, sheltered accommodations for victims, and enhanced public awareness campaigns regarding consent and non-consensual acts.

Need to fight the systematic problem of gender based violence in Europe

MEPs debate the reintroduction of internal border controls in the Schengen area and its impact on EU free movement in a session with the Commission on Monday. Recent decisions by Germany and other Schengen members to reinstate checks have sparked concerns about the future of the Schengen zone and its ability to maintain open borders.

The reintroduction of internal border controls in a number of Member States and its impact on the Schengen Area

On Monday afternoon, MEPs debate 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.

One year after the 7 October terrorist attacks by Hamas

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola meets with British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.

Keir Starmer, leader of the Labour Party from 2020 until 2024 and Prime Minister of the UK since July 2024, has a background as a human rights lawyer and is the former Director of Public Prosecutions.

EP President Roberta Metsola meets with Prime Minister of the UK, Sir Keir Starmer.

The Conference of Presidents will meet to discuss the confirmation hearings of Commissioners-designate, a crucial step in the approval process of the new European Commission. On Tuesday, the Conference of Committee Chairs will finalize the structure and schedule of these hearings, including common questions and the division of responsibilities among parliamentary committees and a proposal will be made to the Conference of Presidents.

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.

Earth Hour Day 2025: the European Parliament in Strasbourg switches off its lights on the occasion of the Earth Hour Day 2025.

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

Avec le retour de la guerre sur le continent européen, il est plus important que jamais de mesurer le niveau des menaces pour la paix, la sécurité et la démocratie dans le monde - comme le fait l’indice de Normandie. L’indice annuel a été présenté pour la première fois à l’occasion du Forum Normandie pour la Paix en juin 2019, à la suite d’un partenariat noué entre le Parlement européen et la région de Normandie. L’indice a été conçu et préparé par le Service de recherche du Parlement européen (EPRS), en collaboration avec l’Institut pour l’économie et la paix et sur la base de données fournies par celui-ci. Le présent document expose les conclusions de l’exercice 2023, qui s’appuie sur les données compilées en 2022, et explique comment l’indice peut être utilisé pour comparer la paix - définie sur la base des performances d’un pays donné par rapport à une série de menaces prédéterminées - entre pays et régions. Il est complété par 61 études de cas consacrées chacune à un pays, sur la base de l’indice. Ce document fait partie de la contribution de l’EPRS au Forum mondial Normandie pour la paix 2023. Il est accompagné de deux documents, l’un sur la contribution de l’Union européenne à la paix et à la sécurité en 2022, l’autre sur les efforts de consolidation de la paix de l’Union européenne en Iraq.

Évaluer les menaces pour la paix et la démocratie au niveau mondial: Indice Normandie 2023

Discover key figures about the repatriation of migrants and proposed changes to EU law.
The EU’s New Pact on Migration and Asylum includes new rules and the revision of existing legislation, such as the Return Directive.
In a draft resolution on the Return Directive adopted in December 2020, MEPs stressed the importance of protecting individual fundamental rights as well as respect for procedural safeguards.

Repatriation: how many migrants in the EU are sent back?

Over the past 30 years the single market has brought unity and opportunities to Europeans.

30 years of EU single market: benefits and challenges

Find out about the top cyber threats in 2022, the most affected sectors and the impact of the war in Ukraine.

The digital transformation has inevitably led to new cybersecurity threats. During the coronavirus pandemic, companies had to adapt to remote working and this created more possibilities for cybercriminals. The war in Ukraine has also affected cybersecurity.

In response to the evolution of cybersecurity threats, Parliament adopted a new EU directive introducing harmonised measures across the EU, including on the protection of essential sectors.

Cybersecurity: main and emerging threats

With fast fashion, the quantity of clothes produced and thrown away has boomed. Find out more about the environmental impact and what the EU is doing about it.

Fast fashion is the constant provision of new styles at very low prices.

To tackle the impact on the environment, the EU wants to reduce textile waste and increase the life cycle and recycling of textiles. This is part of the plan to achieve a circular economy by 2050.

The impact of textile production and waste on the environment

Find out about the economic inequalities that continue to persist between women and men in the EU.

It has been more than 25 years since the adoption of the UN’s Beijing Declaration, which aims to promote equality between men and women. The same goal lies behind the creation of UN Women - dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women - and the inclusion of gender equality in the Sustainable Development Goals.
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So where do we stand? Progress has been made, but inequality between men and women persists, including on the labour market. On average, women in the EU are paid less than men.

Gender pay gap in Europe: facts and figures

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

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

Waste management in the EU: infographic with facts and figures

Pre-session briefing

Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs Ordinary meeting

ECON

Delegation to the EU-Mexico Joint Parliamentary Committee Ordinary meeting

Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development Ordinary meeting

AGRI

Special committee on the European Democracy Shield Ordinary meeting

EUDS

Committee on Culture and Education Extraordinary meeting

CULT

Panel for the Future of Science and Technology Panel on "Accelerating the Rollout of EU Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure"

Press point by Irene TINAGLI (S&D, IT), Chair of HOUS, following the EP/EC Joint conference "Addressing the housing crisis in the Union"

Delegation to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Union for the Mediterranean Ordinary Meeting

DMED

Delegation to the Euro-Latin American Parliamentary Assembly Ordinary meeting

DLAT

Special committee on the Housing Crisis in the European Union Ordinary meeting

HOUS

Stockshot - Bulgaria joining the Schengen area.

Roberta METSOLA, EP President meets with  Lorenzo FONTANA, President of the Italian Chamber of Deputies

Roberta METSOLA, EP President meets with Paulo RANGEL,l Minister for Foreign Affairs of Portugal

European Council

INTA - Exchange of views with Maroš Šefčovič, Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, Interinstitutional Relations and Transparency

SEDE - Exchange of views with Radmila Shekerinska, NATO Deputy Secretary General, on deterrence and defence, defence spending and defence industry.

SANT - Exchange of views with Oliver VARHELYI, Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare

Monetary Dialogue with Christine Lagarde, President of the European Central Bank

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

LUX European Audience Film Award 2025 - Screening of Flow

AGRI - Exchange of views with Commissioner Christophe Hansen on the Vision for Food and Agriculture

Roberta METSOLA, EP President meets with Nikos CHRISTODOULIDES, President of the Republic of Cyprus - Press Point

SEDE - Henna Virkkunen, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission, Commissioner for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy

DROI - Strengthening the role of the EU at the UN and exchanges of best practices in the human rights field

Roberta METSOLA, EP President meets with Nikos CHRISTODOULIDES, President of the Republic of Cyprus

REGI - Consideration of draft report: The role of cohesion policy investment in resolving the current housing crisis

Earth Hour is a worldwide movement organized by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). The event is held annually, encouraging the individuals, communities, and businesses to switch off non-essential electric lights, for one hour as a symbol of commitment to the planet. The News shows the switch off the European Parliament building in Strasbourg on that occasion.

Earth Hour Day 2025: the European Parliament in Strasbourg switches off its lights

Roberta METSOLA, EP President, participates at the European Council meeting (20/03): Doorstep. Addressing the European Council today in Brussels, President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola highlighted the following topics: Ukraine, economy and MFF.

Doorstep by Roberta METSOLA, President of the European Parliament

Iratxe GARCÍA PÉREZ, President of the Group of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats (S&D, ES) makes a statement ahead of the European Council meeting.

Statement by Iratxe GARCÍA PÉREZ, President of the Group of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats (S&D, ES) ahead of the European Council meeting

Roberta METSOLA, EP President, participates at the European Council meeting. Arrival, doorstep and press conference

Roberta METSOLA, EP President, participates at the European Council meeting: extracts from the arrival, doorstep and press conference

Roberta METSOLA, EP President holds a press conference at the European Council meeting (20/03).

Press conference by Roberta METSOLA, EP President on her participation to the European Council: Q&A

Press conference by Roberta METSOLA, EP President on her participation to the European Council: opening statement

Renew Europe leaders meet ahead of the Special European Council meeting in Brussels. Statement of Valerie HAYER, President of RENEW Europe

Renew Europe leaders meet ahead of the Special European Council meeting: arrivals and doorsteps

The Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) holds its regular debate with European Central Bank (ECB) President Christine LAGARDE. MEPs question her on the US shift to protectionism and its impact on the euro area economy, and on the recent decision to lower interest rates, among other issues. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Monetary Dialogue with Christine LAGARDE, President of the European Central Bank: opening statements by Aurore LALUCQ (S&D, FR), Chair of ECON Committee, and Christine LAGARDE

The Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) holds its regular debate with European Central Bank (ECB) President Christine LAGARDE. MEPs question her on the US shift to protectionism and its impact on the euro area economy, and on the recent decision to lower interest rates, among other issues

Monetary Dialogue with Christine LAGARDE, President of the European Central Bank: ﻿extracts from the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs meeting

EPP leaders meet ahead of the European Council meeting (20/03/2025) in Brussels. EU leaders meet in Brussels to discuss competitiveness and to follow up on the special European Council held on 6 March to address recent developments in Ukraine and the next steps on defence. The next multiannual financial framework (MFF), migration, the latest developments in the Middle East, multilateralism and other global issues are also on the agenda.

EPP leaders meet ahead of the European Council meeting: arrivals and doorsteps

Roberta METSOLA, President of the European Parliament, meets with Petteri ORPO, Finnish Prime Minister, at the European Parliament in Brussels. This news item shows extracts from the arrival of Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, welcome by EP President Roberta Metsola, handshake and family photo. Finnish Prime Minister's visit takes place ahead of the European Council of 20 March 2025, where EU leaders discuss competitiveness and the follow-up to the special European Council held on 6 March to address recent developments in Ukraine and the next steps on defence.

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

Patriots.eu meet ahead of the Special European Council meeting in Brussels.

Patriots.eu meet ahead of the Special European Council meeting: arrivals and doorsteps

Roberta METSOLA, EP President and Nikos CHRISTODOULIDES, President of Cyprus hold a joint press point. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Press point by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, and Nikos CHRISTODOULIDES, President of Cyprus

EP President, Roberta METSOLA meets with Nikos CHRISTODOULIDES, President of Cyprus. At the end of the meeting, they hold a press point on the outcomes of the informal UN meeting in Geneva focused on the Cyprus issue.

Roberta METSOLA, EP President meets with Nikos CHRISTODOULIDES, President of Cyprus: arrival, welcome, roundtable and extracts from the press point

Roberta METSOLA, President of the European Parliament, meets with Antonio Guterres, United Nations Secretary General at the European Parliament in Brussels. The European Union is a key partner for the United Nations, and the EU Member States are collectively the largest financial contributors to the UN system, year after year. This news item shows extracts from the arrival of UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, welcome by EP President Roberta Metsola, handshake and family photo, and roundtable discussion between the two international leaders.

Roberta METSOLA, EP President meets with António GUTERRES, Secretary General of the United Nations (UN): arrival, welcome and roundtable

Judge Tomoko AKANE, President of the International Criminal Court (ICC) speaks to the Human Rights subcommittee and the Legal Affairs committee on the impact of the Court’s recent decisions, and its fight against impunity in cases of war crimes and crimes against humanity. The meeting with MEPs is an opportunity to discuss the latest developments in the international criminal justice architecture in a changing geopolitical landscape, including US President Donald Trump’s executive order imposing sanctions on the ICC on 6 February 2025.

Exchange of views with Judge Tomoko AKANE, President of the International Criminal Court: extracts and statement by Judge Tomoko AKANE, President of the International Criminal Court

The fifth meeting of the EU-UK Parliamentary Partnership Assembly (PPA) takes place in Brussels. Members exchange views on the Future of EU-UK foreign and security policy cooperation, Youth Opportunities, and Trade, customs and sanitary and phytosanitary measures. Sandro GOZI (Renew, FR) and Marsha DE CORDOVA (MP, UK) hold a press point on the 5th EU-UK Parliamentary Partnership Assembly.

Press point by Sandro GOZI (Renew, FR) and Marsha DE CORDOVA, Co-Chairs of the EU-UK Parliamentary Partnership Assembly (EU-UK PPA) on the 5th EU-UK Parliamentary Partnership Assembly

Pasquale TRIDICO (The Left/IT), Chair of the Tax Matters subcommittee and Wopke HOEKSTRA, European Commissioner responsible for taxation hold a press conference on the EU Tax Symposium 2025

Press Conference by Pasquale TRIDICO (The Left/IT), Chair of the Tax Matters subcommittee and Wopke HOEKSTRA, European Commissioner responsible for taxation on the EU Tax Symposium 2025

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