At a glance: during the European Parliament’s plenary session in Strasbourg, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán will present Hungary’s priorities for its presidency of the Council of the European Union; MEPs will also discuss the Hungarian National Card residence permit scheme, which now includes Russians and Belarusians, and the EU response to the mpox outbreak.

Blúiríní Nuachta – 17/09/2024 - Gaeilge

At a glance: during this week’s European Parliament plenary session MEPs will discuss energy as winter approaches; Mario Draghi will present his report in the debating chamber; and the debate on the latest developments in the Middle East.

Blúiríní Nuachta – 16/09/2024 - Gaeilge

At a glance: a new European Parliament plenary session starts on Monday in Strasbourg; President Metsola met Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo; and the International Day of Democracy.

Blúiríní Nuachta – 13/09/2024 - Gaeilge

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

Blúiríní Nuachta – 12/09/2024 - Gaeilge

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

Blúiríní Nuachta – 11/09/2024 - Gaeilge

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

Blúiríní Nuachta – 10/09/2024 - Gaeilge

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

Blúiríní Nuachta – 09/09/2024 - Gaeilge

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

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

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

EPRS policy podcast - Financing the European defence industry

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

Blúiríní Nuachta – 06/09/2024 - Gaeilge

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

Blúiríní Nuachta – 05/09/2024 - Gaeilge

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

Blúiríní Nuachta – 04/09/2024 - Gaeilge

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

Blúiríní Nuachta – 03/09/2024 - Gaeilge

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

Blúiríní Nuachta – 02/09/2024 - Gaeilge

Nuair a thoghtar iad, glacann Feisirí de Pharlaimint na hEorpa róil éagsúla. Is féidir leo a bheith ina nUachtarán nó ina Leas-Uachtarán de Pharlaimint na hEorpa, ina gcomhaltaí de choistí nó fiú a bheith ina mbreathnadóirí. Cé nach bpléitear an ról sin chomh minic leis na cinn eile, is ról chomh tábhachtach céanna é sa Pharlaimint.
San eagrán seo, caithfimid súil níos géire ar a bhfuil i gceist le ról an bhreathnadóra, chun tuiscint níos fearr a fháil ar cé atá ábalta an ról a ghlacadh, na dualgais atá orthu agus na rudaí a dhéanann siad.

Bacainn an Bhéarlagair a Bhaint: ról na mBreathnadóirí

Nuair a chuimhnímid ar Pharlaimint na hEorpa, an chéad rud a ritheann linn ná na Feisirí ag caitheamh vótaí sa seomra tionóil. I ndáiríre, ní tharlaíonn na vótaí sin ach uair sa mhí, le linn na suíonna iomlánacha. Ach cad iad na suíonna sin agus cad a tharlaíonn lena linn?

Cad is suí iomlánach ann?

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.

AGRI - Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development

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

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

Climate change (2019-2020)

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

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

Climate change

The EP discussed the&nbsp;&nbsp;extreme weather and flooding in Poland, Hungary, Poland, Austria, Romania, Czechia, Slovakia and Germany,&nbsp;the loss of lives and the EU’s preparedness to act on such disasters exacerbated by climate change.

With increasing population growth, rapid urbanization, climate change and environmental degradation, a growing number of people and resources are exposed to natural disasters.MEPs have supported different initiatives to help member states respond faster and more effectively to emergencies and disasters. The European Parliament is also impelled to aid and supervise reconstruction efforts in regions affected by natural disasters both within the EU and abroad.

Natural disasters

Hungary holds the Presidency of the Council of the European Union from the 1st of July to 31st of December 2024.&nbsp;Priorities of the Hungarian&nbsp;presidency include: new European Competitiveness Deal ,The reinforcement of European defence policy ,&nbsp;&nbsp;a&nbsp;consistent and merit-based enlargement policy ,&nbsp;stemming illegal migration, shaping the future of cohesion policy, a&nbsp;farmer-oriented EU agricultural policy, addressing demographic challenges.

&nbsp;Make Europe Great Again”&nbsp;will be the motto of the Hungarian Presidency of the Council of the European Union, which refers to both an active and proactive Presidency and to the fact that member states are stronger together than apart. It also symbolises the perception that Europe can become an independent global player.

The Rubik’s cube, the main element of the Hungarian presidency logo, refers to Hungarian ingenuity and problem-solving skills, as well as the complexity of European affairs.

Hungarian Presidency

ENVI - Committee on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety

The European Parliament has repeatedly advocated press freedom and media pluralism in the EU and abroad.&nbsp; World Press Freedom Day was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in December 1993, following the recommendation of UNESCO's General Conference. Since then, 3 May, the anniversary of the&nbsp;Declaration of Windhoek&nbsp;is celebrated worldwide as World Press Freedom Day.

Already in 2018 the EP adopted a resolution on media pluralism and media freedom in the EU, noting the political developments in various members states, that have led to increased pressures on and threats against journalists.&nbsp; The European Parliament has also&nbsp;launched the Daphne Caruana Galizia Prize for Journalism.&nbsp;

The prize commends outstanding journalism revolving around the principles and values of the European Union. On the field of legislation, Parliament wants to reinforce protection of journalists and activists in the EU against unfounded and abusive lawsuits aimed to silence them.&nbsp;

MEPs also gave their final green light to new legislation to protect EU journalists and media from political or economic interference during the March Plenary session.

Under the new law, adopted by 464 votes in favour to 92 against and 65 abstentions, member states will be obliged to protect media independence and all forms of interventions in editorial decisions will be banned.

More info:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/press-room/20240308IPR19014/media-freedom-act-a-new-bill-to-protect-eu-journalists-and-press-freedom">https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/press-room/20240308IPR19014/media-freedom-act-a-new-bill-to-protect-eu-journalists-and-press-freedom</a>

Press freedom

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

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

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

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

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

Violence against women

Exposing and eradicating discrimination on the grounds of gender and sex remains a priority for the European Parliament. Through the&nbsp;FEMM Committee and plenary debates, MEPs frequently discuss&nbsp;the impact on women of social and economic changes.

The European Parliament aims to address and denounce events and policy that breach or threaten the rights of women,&nbsp;both within the EU and abroad.

During the last week of October 2023, the European Parliament holds its fourth European Gender Equality Week,&nbsp;at the initiative of the Women’s Rights Committee. Several committees will hold debates with a gender perspective to discuss policy shortcomings and achievements, and how to advance women's rights in all EU policy areas.

Women's rights

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

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

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

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

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

Fight against terrorism

Following the lessons learned from the pandemic and as a&nbsp;part of&nbsp;building a European Health Union, the Commission proposed a new health security framework on 11 November 2020. The package includes three pieces of legislation: a&nbsp;stronger role for the European Medicines Agency,&nbsp;extending the mandate of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control&nbsp;and a&nbsp;proposal for a regulation on serious cross-border threats to health.

The new legislation aims to strengthen the EU’s capacity to prevent, prepare for and manage communicable diseases outbreaks.The ECDC will cooperate with the European Commission, national authorities, EU bodies and international organisations to ensure their respective activities are consistent and complement each other.&nbsp;

The new rules concerning cross-border threats include improved prevention, preparedness and response planning at EU and national levels. The Commission will be able to formally recognise a public health emergency at EU level, which would trigger stronger intra-EU cooperation and allow for the timely development and stockpiling of medical countermeasures.

EU countries hold primary responsibility for organising and delivering health services and medical care. EU health policy therefore serves to complement national policies, and to ensure health protection in all EU policies.&nbsp; EU policies and actions in public health aim to protect and improve the health of EU citizens, support the modernisation of health infrastructure, improve the efficiency of Europe's health systems.

The Committee for Environment, Public Health, and Food Safety ENVI is Parliament’s main actor on health matters and is responsible for over 10% of Parliament´s total legislative activity.

EU health policy

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

Parliament is pressing for measures to increase the use of alternative fuels as well as to improve road safety and to tackle unfair competition and the exploitation of workers.

In line with its Work Programme 2017, the European Commission proposes a set of initiatives to make traffic safer, encourage smart road charging, reduce CO2 emissions, air pollution and congestion, cut red-tape for businesses, fight illicit employment and ensure proper conditions and rest times for workers. These initiatives are linked to the strategy for a Resilient Energy Union, Europe's transition to a low-carbon economy and the strategy for low-emission mobility.

See more on this topic by visiting our <a href="https://multimedia.europarl.europa.eu/en/mobility-8th-parliamentary-term_6507_pk">package</a> for the 8th parliamentary term.

Mobility

The European Parliament in April 2024 adopted ten legislative texts to reform European migration and asylum policy as agreed with EU member states. Five separate EU regulations, establishe&nbsp;how to share the management of asylum and migration flows among member states and what to do in cases of sudden migratory crisis.

The rules also regulate how to deal with people arriving at the EU’s external borders, the processing of asylum claims, and the identification of those arriving.

Following the deal in trilogue in December 2023 ,&nbsp;EP President Roberta Metsola&nbsp;said: “”Today is a truly historic day, as we have delivered on the Migration and Asylum Pact, possibly the most important legislative package of this mandate. Europe will now get a robust legislative framework that is the same in all Member States. That functions and that protects, an approach that is humane and fair with those seeking protection, that is firm with those who are not eligible, and that is strong with those who exploit the most vulnerable &nbsp;

Refugee movements and migration are at the centre of global attention.&nbsp; The European Parliament is actively involved, in the adoption of new laws on irregular and regular immigration. It is a full co-legislator together with the Council representing member states on these matters since the entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty in 2009.

Migration

Compared to the rest of the world, Europe has the best levels of social protection and also ranks highly in terms of quality of life and wellbeing. However, it faces a wide range of challenges, including impact of the COVID situation.

The EU has only limited competence when it comes to social issues as most of it is up to national governments. The responsibility for employment and social policies lies mostly with the member states and their governments. This means that national governments - and not the EU - decide on issues such as wage regulations, including minimum wage, the role of collective bargaining, pensions systems and retirement age, and unemployment benefits.

However, over the years, the EU has been working on social issues throughout the European integration process and come up with a series of instruments in the social sector. These include EU laws, funds and tools to better coordinate and monitor national policies. The EU also encourages countries to share best practices on issues such as social inclusion, poverty and pensions.

One of the supporting tools is the European Social Fund+, with a total budget of €88 billion for next 7 years. It will play an important role in the implementation of the action plan on the European Pillar of Social Rights and in countering the socio-economic effects of the pandemic. It integrates the former European Social Fund, the Youth Employment Initiative (YEI), the Fund for European Aid to the most Deprived (FEAD) and the EU programme for Employment and Social Innovation (EaSI) into one fund.

Social Europe

The EU and NATO have founded their long-standing partnership, in an environment shaped by common principles and values. The European Parliament and NATO engage frequently in active dialogue in order to deepen mutual understanding and consolidate cooperation. In an increasingly volatile and unstable geopolitical context, the dynamic of cooperation has intensified to face new threats ranging from terrorism to climate change to hybrid warfare.&nbsp;

EU - NATO relations

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

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

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

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

On Wednesday, MEPs will address the worsening situation for women in Afghanistan following the adoption of the law on the “Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice”. This law significantly restricts women's presence in public life, curbing their freedom of movement and expression, and imposing strict regulations on their behavior and dress. The new provisions reinforce existing limitations on women’s rights, such as the requirement for women to fully cover themselves, including their faces, and the ban on traveling without a male relative. Additionally, the law places further constraints on media by prohibiting the publication of images of human beings.

The deteriorating situation of women in Afghanistan due to the recent adoption of the law on the “Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice”

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

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

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

Press conference on the LUX Audience Award 2025

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

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

On Wednesday, MEPs debate the devastating floods in Central and Eastern Europe, which have claimed lives and displaced thousands. The discussion focuses on the EU's preparedness for handling increasingly severe disasters driven by climate change.

The floods, caused by torrential rain, have wreaked havoc across Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary and Austria, with entire neighborhoods submerged and widespread damage to infrastructure. Local authorities are describing the floods as the worst in decades, prompting emergency evacuations and calls for EU financial assistance.

The devastating floods in Central and Eastern Europe, the loss of lives and the EU’s preparedness to act on such disasters exacerbated by climate change

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

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

Parliament debate the findings of the Draghi's report on a blueprint for boosting Europe’s competitiveness. after his address from 14.00.

The report calls the challenge facing policy makers an “existential” one and warns that procrastination will lead to hard choices having to be made. It proposes far-reaching changes to numerous areas such as an “unprecedented” boost to public investment, including through the issuance of new EU common debt, a reform of the EU’s cohesion policy, an overhaul of competition policy, and a new industrial policy with at its core a strategy for reducing Europe’s high energy prices.

The future of European competitiveness

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

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

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

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

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

Continued financial and military support to Ukraine by EU Member States

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

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

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

Outcome of the Strategic Dialogue on the Future of EU Agriculture

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

Opening of the Pleanry session by Roberta METSOLA, EP President

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

President Metsola meets the Prime Minister of Finland, Petteri Orpo

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

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

EP Plenary session - Situation in Sudan

EP Plenary session - Summit of the Future: transforming global governance for building peace, promoting human rights and achieving the Sustainable development goals

EP Plenary session - The democratic backsliding and threats to political pluralism in Georgia

Briefing S&D by Iratxe GARCÍA PÉREZ, (S&D,ES), President and Klára DOBREV (S&D, HU)

Briefing EPP by Manfred WEBER (EPP,DE), President

Méadú ar an bhforéigean sa Mheánoirthear agus an staid sa Liobáin

Athchromadh ar an suí

Am vótála

Formheas mhiontuairiscí an tsuí roimhe sin

An ghéarchéim atá os comhair thionscal gluaisteán an Aontais, dúnadh féideartha monarchan agus an gá atá le hiomaíochas a fheabhsú agus poist a choinneáil san Eoraip

Athléimneacht na Moldóive a neartú i gcoinne thrasnaíocht na Rúise roimh na toghcháin uachtaránachta agus reifreann bunreachtúil ar lánpháirtiú AE atá ar na bacáin

Comhdhéanamh na gcoistí agus na dtoscaireachtaí

Ceartúcháin (Riail 251) (beart a glacadh)

An cúlú daonlathach agus bagairtí ar iolrachas polaitiúil sa tSeoirsia

Toradh an Chruinnithe Mullaigh don Todhchaí: rialachas domhanda a athrú ó bhonn chun an tsíocháin a chothú, cearta an duine a chur chun cinn agus na spriocanna forbartha inbhuanaithe a bhaint amach

An staid sa tSúdáin

Mínithe ar an vótáil

Clár oibre an chéad suí eile

Formheas mhiontuairiscí an tsuí

Plenary session

Committee on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety

ENVI

Committee on Transport and Tourism

TRAN

Committee on Budgets

BUDG

Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development

AGRI

Oscailt an tsuí

Comhdhéanamh na Parlaiminte

Comhdhéanamh na ngrúpaí polaitiúla

Ceartúcháin (Riail 251)

Síniú gníomhartha arna nglacadh i gcomhréir leis an ngnáthnós imeachta reachtach (Riail 81)

Ord gnó

Bliain amháin tar éis na n-ionsaithe sceimhlitheoireachta a rinne Hamas an 7 Deireadh Fómhair

Rialuithe ag teorainneacha inmheánacha a athbhunú i roinnt Ballstát agus an tionchar atá aige sin ar Limistéar Schengen

An gá atá le fadhb shistéamach an fhoréigin inscnebhunaithe san Eoraip a chomhrac

Aghaidh a thabhairt ar an mbréagnuacht, ar an bpobalachas agus ar an mbréagaisnéis san Aontas – a thábhachtaí atá an chraoltóireacht phoiblí, iolrachas na meán agus an iriseoireacht neamhspleách

Na falscaithe foircneacha i nDeisceart na hEorpa, go háirithe sa Phortaingéil agus sa Ghréig, agus an gá atá le gníomhú breise ar son na haeráide ón Aontas maidir le hoiriúnú agus maolú

Ciste Dlúthpháirtíochta an Aontais Eorpaigh a shlógadh chun cúnamh a thabhairt don Iodáil, don tSlóivéin, don Ostair, don Ghréig agus don Fhrainc i ndáil le tubaistí nádúrtha a tharla in 2023

Óráidí aon nóiméid amháin (Riail 179)

Last minute session briefing

Pre-session briefing

Constitutive meeting of Delegation to the EU-North Macedonia Joint Parliamentary Committee

Constitutive meeting of Delegations for relations with Japan

Constitutive meeting of Delegation for relations with the Korean Peninsula

Constitutive meeting of Delegations for relations with the countries of South Asia

Committee on Petitions

PETI

Constitutive meeting of Delegation to the EU-Türkiye Joint Parliamentary Committee

Constitutive meeting of Delegations for relations with Afghanistan

Constitutive meeting of Delegation to the EU-UK Parliamentary Partnership Assembly

EP Plenary session - Council and Commission statements - Preparation of the European Council of 17-18 October 2024

EP Plenary session - Short presentation : Mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund: assistance to Italy, Slovenia, Austria, Greece and France further to natural disasters occurred in 2023

EP Plenary session - Commission statement - The extreme wildfires in Southern Europe, in particular Portugal and Greece and the need for further EU climate action on adaptation and mitigation

EP Plenary session - Facing fake news, populism and disinformation in the EU - the importance of public broadcasting, media pluralism and independent journalism

ENVI - Exchange of views with István Nagy, Minister of Agriculture on the priorities of the Hungarian Presidency of the Council

EP Plenary session - Need to fight the systematic problem of gender based violence in Europe

AGRI extraordinary meeting - Exchange of views with István Nagy, Minister of Agriculture on the priorities of the Hungarian Presidency of the Council

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

Meeting of the European Parliament's Bureau

EP Plenary session - One year after the 7 October terrorist attacks by Hamas

EP Plenary session - Resumption of session and order of business

Last minute briefing

Delegation to the EU-North Macedonia Joint Parliamentary Committee Constitutive meeting

Delegation for relations with the Korean Peninsula Constitutive meeting

Delegations for relations with Japan

Delegation to the EU-Türkiye Joint Parliamentary Committee Constitutive meeting

Delegations for relations with the countries of South Asia Constitutive meeting

Opening statements by Josep BORRELL FONTELLES, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission. 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. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Escalation of violence in the Middle East and the situation in Lebanon: opening statement by Josep BORRELL FONTELLES, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission

Valérie HAYER (Renew, FR), Renew Europe Group Leader, holds a press conference. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

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

Opening statements. 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 engage with representatives from the Commission and the Hungarian Presidency to explore measures aimed at revitalizing the automotive sector. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

The crisis facing the EU’s automotive industry, potential plant closures and the need to enhance competitiveness and maintain jobs in Europe: Opening statement by Valdis DOMBROVSKIS, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission

Iratxe GARCÍA PÉREZ, (S&D, ES), S&D Group Leader, and Klára DOBREV (S&D, HU) hold a press conference. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Press briefing by Iratxe GARCÍA PÉREZ, (S&D, ES), S&D Group Leader and by Klára DOBREV (S&D, HU)

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

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

MEPs discuss the 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.

Preparation of the European Council of 17-18 October 2024: MEPs debate

Point of order by Roberta METSOLA, EP President and opening statements by Roberta METSOLA, EP President and opening statements by János BÓKA, Hungarian Minister for European Affairs and by Maroš ŠEFČOVIČ, Executive Vice-President of the EC. MEPs 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.

Preparation of the European Council of 17-18 October 2024: point of order by Roberta METSOLA, EP President Opening statements by János BÓKA, Hungarian Minister for European Affairs and by Maroš ŠEFČOVIČ, Executive Vice-President of the EC

Closing statements by Maroš ŠEFČOVIČ, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission and by János BÓKA, Hungarian Minister for European Affairs. MEPs 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.

Preparation of the European Council of 17-18 October 2024: Closing statements by Maroš ŠEFČOVIČ, European Commission's Executive Vice-President and János BÓKA, Hungarian Minister for European Affairs

MEPs assess with the Commission and the Hungarian Presidency the latest developments in the war in Ukraine and the conflict in the Middle East. Ahead of the summit of the Heads of State or Government in Brussels on 17-18 October, plenary discuss how the EU can continue supporting Kyiv against Russian aggression, and the EU’s response to the latest events in the Middle East, where Israeli forces continue their attacks on Gaza and have intensified their actions against Hezbollah in Lebanon. in Lebanon, while Iran has launched missiles against Israel. At their meeting, EU leaders will also focus on making the European economy more competitive, improving the competitiveness of the European economy, following the publication of Mario Draghi’s report calling for a boost of public investment and wide-ranging economic reforms., and on ways to manage migration flows and ensure border protection.

Preparation of the European Council of 17-18 October 2024: extracts from the debate

MEPs 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. Closing statement by Věra JOUROVÁ, Vice-President of the European Commission.

Facing fake news, populism and disinformation in the EU - the importance of public broadcasting, media pluralism and independent journalism: closing statement by Věra JOUROVÁ, Vice-President of the European Commission

MEPs 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.

Facing fake news, populism and disinformation in the EU - the importance of public broadcasting, media pluralism and independent journalism: MEPs debate

MEPs 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. Opening statement by Věra JOUROVÁ, Vice-President of the European Commission in charge of Values and Transparency. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Facing fake news, populism and disinformation in the EU - the importance of public broadcasting, media pluralism and independent journalism: opening statement by Věra JOUROVÁ, Vice-President of the European Commission

Closing statement by Helena DALLI, European Commissioner for Equality, on the "Need to fight the systematic problem of gender based violence in Europe" debate. 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 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.

Need to fight the systematic problem of gender based violence in Europe: Closing statement by Helena DALLI, European Commissioner for Equality

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 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.

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

Opening statement by Helena DALLI, European Commissioner for Equality, on the "Need to fight the systematic problem of gender based violence in Europe" debate. 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 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. Opening statement by Helena DALLI, European Commissioner for Equality. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Need to fight the systematic problem of gender based violence in Europe: Opening statement by Helena DALLI, European Commissioner for Equality

Ylva JOHANSSON, European Commissioner for Home Affairs delivers her closing statement, following up on the debate among the MEPs on the reintroduction of internal border controls in the Schengen area and its impact on EU free movement. The recent decision taken by Germany and other Member States to reinstate checks has sparked concerns about the future of the Schengen zone.

The reintroduction of internal border controls in a number of Member States and its impact on the Schengen Area : Closing statement of Ylva JOHANSSON

Commissioner Ylva JOHANSSON opens the plenary debate on the reintroduction of internal border controls in the Schengen area and its impact on EU free movement. The recent decisions taken by Germany and other Schengen members to reinstate checks have sparked concerns about the future of the Schengen zone.

The reintroduction of internal border controls in a number of Member States and its impact on the Schengen Area: Opening statement by Ylva JOHANSSON, European Commissioner for Home Affairs

MEPs debate focuses on the reintroduction of internal border controls in the Schengen area, and on its impact on the EU free movement. The recent decision taken by Germany and other Schengen members to reinstate checks has sparked concerns about the future of the Schengen zone and its ability to maintain open borders.

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