At a glance: an agreement on more ESF+ funding to boost skills development and address new challenges; a simpler tax system to benefit EU businesses and citizens; and MEPs encourage Ukraine to maintain its pace on implementing EU-related reforms.

L-Aħbarijiet fil-Qosor – 17/07/2025 - Malti

At a glance: Parliament reiterates its call for a more ambitious EU long-term budget; and Parliament’s committees hold two public hearings, one on the issue of vacant housing in the EU and the other on generative AI and democracy.

L-Aħbarijiet fil-Qosor – 16/07/2025 - Malti

At a glance: Denmark’s government ministers present their priorities in meetings with Parliament’s committees; the Subcommittee on Human Rights discusses the human rights situation in China ahead of the EU-China Summit in Beijing; and the Commission’s proposal to amend the European Climate Law.

L-Aħbarijiet fil-Qosor – 15/07/2025 - Malti

At a glance:  Parliament’s Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development votes on new rules to better protect EU farmers; NATO and EU lawmakers are in Brussels for a seminar on tackling hybrid threats; MEPs debate future EU anti-racism strategy in key civil liberties meeting.

L-Aħbarijiet fil-Qosor – 14/07/2025 - Malti

At a glance: MEPs place the common agricultural policy at the heart of the next EU long-term budget; Parliament condemns Russia’s continued war crimes in Ukraine; and MEPs propose ways to manage the influx of substandard goods from non-EU web shops.

L-Aħbarijiet fil-Qosor – 11/07/2025 - Malti

At a glance: Bulgaria will adopt the euro from 1 January 2026; Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen outlined Denmark’s priorities for its six-month EU Council presidency; and Parliament approved a new law to secure gas supplies and tackle speculation.

L-Aħbarijiet fil-Qosor – 10/07/2025 - Malti

At a glance: Parliament’s July plenary session is under way. We will look at the debate on EU-China relations; the commemoration of the 30th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide; and new rules for a more sustainable automotive sector.

L-Aħbarijiet fil-Qosor – 09/07/2025 - Malti

Il-Parlament Ewropew u l-parlamenti nazzjonali flimkien jiddefinixxu l-organizzazzjoni u l-promozzjoni ta’ kooperazzjoni interparlamentari effettiva u regolari fi ħdan l-Unjoni. Din il-kooperazzjoni tieħu ħafna forom. Ejjew nagħtu ħarsa ġenerali qasira lejha f’dan il-podcast.

Ir-relazzjonijiet bejn il-Parlament Ewropew u l-parlamenti nazzjonali

At a glance: Parliament’s July plenary session is under way. MEPs will debate and vote on distributing EUR 280 million of flood relief to Austria, Czechia, Poland, Slovakia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Moldova; controlling the influx of parcels from outside the EU; and stepping up preparations for the wildfire season.

L-Aħbarijiet fil-Qosor – 08/07/2025 - Malti

Id-delegazzjonijiet tal-Parlament Ewropew huma gruppi uffiċjali ta’ Membri tal-PE li għandhom l-għan li jiżviluppaw relazzjonijiet mal-parlamenti ta’ pajjiżi terzi kif ukoll ma’ reġjuni jew organizzazzjonijiet terzi. Dawn id-delegazzjonijiet iżommu l-kuntatti internazzjonali tal-Parlament, jiżviluppawhom u jikkontribwixxu għat-tisħiħ tar-rwol tal-Unjoni Ewropea u l-viżibbiltà tagħha madwar id-dinja.

Ir-rwol tad-delegazzjonijiet tal-Parlament Ewropew

Minbarra li jattendu għas-sessjonijiet plenarji tal-Parlament Ewropew, il-Membri tal-PE jagħmlu parti mill-kumitati parlamentari. Dawn il-kumitati huma numerużi u kull wieħed minnhom huwa speċjalizzat f’suġġett. Imma kif jaħdmu?

Ir-rwol tal-kumitati parlamentari

Li tkun Membru tal-Parlament Ewropew ma jfissirx biss li tivvota u tieħu sehem fid-dibattiti waqt is-sessjoni plenarja. Il-Membri tal-Parlament Ewropew jistgħu jkunu responsabbli għat-tfassil ta’ rapport li jirrappreżenta l-opinjoni tal-Parlament dwar proposta jew dwar kwalunkwe suġġett ieħor: dan huwa r-rwol tar-rapporteur.

Ir-rwol tar-rapporteur

Fl-1989, Jozef Mad'ar u l-crew televiżiv tiegħu mill-Jugoslavja ntbagħtu biex jiġbdu filmati tal-protesti ċivili għal-libertà u d-demokrazija fl-eks Ċekoslovakkja. Ejjew nisimgħu t-tifkiriet tiegħu aħna u nimxu miegħu fit-toroq ta' Bratislava.

Iċ-ċwievet għal-libertà - tifkiriet ta' cameraman mir-Rivoluzzjoni tal-Bellus fiċ-Ċekoslovakkja

At a glance: Parliament’s July plenary session starts today. MEPs assess the latest developments in the Middle East; a debate on the Commission’s proposal for a new 2040 EU climate target; and the Parliament and Commission Presidents discuss the next long-term EU budget.

L-Aħbarijiet fil-Qosor – 07/07/2025 - Malti

L-Artikolu 7 huwa għodda legali li tfasslet biex tipproteġi l-valuri li fuqhom hija mibnija l-Unjoni Ewropea. Dan l-artikolu hu minqux fit-Trattat u jippermetti lill-Unjoni Ewropea tieħu azzjoni f’każ li Stat Membru jwettaq ksur serju jew ikun f’riskju li jwettaq ksur serju ta' dawn il-valuri ewlenin.

Nissalvagwardjaw il-valuri tal-Unjoni Ewropea: ħarsa lejn l-Artikolu 7

At a glance: Parliament’s plenary session kicks off on Monday. On the agenda: the Danish Presidency of the Council of the European Union presents its programme; Parliament President Metsola commemorates the 30th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide; and the Working Group on the European Child Guarantee resumes its work.

L-Aħbarijiet fil-Qosor – 04/07/2025 - Malti

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.

TRAN - Committee on Transport and Tourism

BUDG - Committee on Budgets

ITRE - Committee on Industry, Research and Energy

The progress of&nbsp;digital transformation&nbsp;has inevitably led to new cybersecurity threats.&nbsp;Also the COVID19 crisis has again exposed the cyber vulnerabilities of some critical sectors, in particular healthcare, while teleworking and social distance has increased our dependency on digital technologies and connectivity.

As&nbsp; a consequence, in December 2020 the European Commission launched a new EU Cybersecurity Strategy&nbsp;to make physical and digital critical entities more resilient.

The European Parliament and the Coucil reached a deal on&nbsp;May 2022 on the new rules to&nbsp;strengthen EU-wide resilience

The agreed text&nbsp;sets tighter cybersecurity obligations in terms of risk management, reporting obligations and information sharing. The requirements include incident response, supply chain security, encryption and vulnerability disclosure, among other provisions.

Cybersecurity

&nbsp;​​​At a critical time for Ukraine and European security, the EU is committed to becoming more responsible for its own defence and better equipped to act and deal autonomously with immediate and future challenges and threats, including Russia’s war and its repercussions on European security, which constitute an existential challenge for the EU. The common security and defence policy (CSDP) is an integral part of the EU’s common foreign and security policy (CFSP). The CSDP is the main policy framework through which Member States can develop a European strategic culture of security and defence, address conflicts and crises together, protect the Union and its citizens, and strengthen international peace and security. As a result of the tense geopolitical context, the CSDP has been one of the fastest developing policies over the last 10 years.

European security and defence

From 1 July to 31 December 2025 Denmark will hold the Presidency of the Council of the European Union.&nbsp;Under the slogan ‘A strong Europe in a changing world’, the Danish Presidency will work for a secure Europe as well as a competitive and green Europe.

The EU is facing a new international order marked by uncertainty, global strategic and economic competition, and rising levels of conflict. That is why the EU must be able to act in its own right. The EU’s strength lies in European unity, a solid economic foundation, stable democracies, and socially balanced societies, among other things. This strength must be developed further and used to promote and defend both European interests and the international legal order. The Danish EU Presidency will work for a strong and resolute EU that takes responsibility for its own security and for strengthening its competitiveness. This calls for the EU to match words with action and deliver on the challenges it faces. The green transition is essential to building a more secure and competitive Europe. &nbsp;

The Conference of Presidents, political group leaders as well as President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola, were in Copenhagen on 3 June&nbsp;to discuss priorities ahead of the Danish Presidency of the Council.

Danish presidency

The European budget supports citizens, farmers, researchers, businesses and regions across Europe and beyond. It has proven&nbsp;essential for improving the lives of Europeans. Together with NextGenerationEU, it helped overcome a pandemic and energy crisis, while saving millions of jobs during lockdowns and investing in our clean and digital future. The EU budget also provided unprecedented support to Ukraine and the security of Europe, in the face of Russia's war of aggression.<a name="_Hlk189216671"></a>

Next long-term budget&nbsp;will start in 2028. Parliament adopted a&nbsp;<a data-analytics-event-attached="true" href="https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/TA-10-2025-0090_EN.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">resolution</a>&nbsp;on the future MFF during its May 2025 plenary session, asking for a “significantly more ambitious” budget, and arguing that the current spending ceiling of 1% of the EU-27’s gross national income is not enough. MEPs also rejected the Commission’s idea of replicating the Recovery and Resilience Facility’s "one national plan per Member State" model in the EU’s new long-term budget. Instead, they demand a structure that ensures transparency and parliamentary accountability, and involves regional and local authorities.

The decision on the next long-term EU budget requires unanimous agreement among member states and must also be backed by Parliament, by a majority of its component members.&nbsp;

EU Multiannual Financial Framework 2028-2034

The constitutive meetings of the European Parliament's standing committees and subcommittees take place in Brussels on the week from 27th to 31st january 2025. During the meetings, each committee and subcommittee will elect its respective bureau, made up of a Chair and Vice-Chairs, for a two-and-a-half year mandate.

SEDE - Committee on Security and Defence

INTA - Committee on International Trade

AGRI - Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development

On 24 February 2022,&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;began a&nbsp;military invasion&nbsp;of Ukraine, in a major escalation of the conflict that had begun in 2014. Shortly before, on 21 February, Russian President Vladimir Putin recognized the two breakaway regions in eastern Ukraine as independent.&nbsp;

The Russian aggression has brought destruction to Ukraine and its people, but also a wide range of economic and social consequences across Europe and the European Union. MEPs regularly debate on how to respond to the current cost of living crisis,&nbsp;bolstered by&nbsp;inflation and&nbsp;hikes in energy prices.

In the annual&nbsp;&nbsp;2022 report on the implementation of the Common Security and Defence Policy, MEPs called the EU and its member states need to increase their military, political and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and strengthen their defence in countering Russian threats to European security.

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Consequences of the war in Ukraine on the EU

David McAllister (EPP, DE) will continue as the Chair of Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee for the coming two and a half years. He was re-elected by acclamation on Wednesday, 10 July. During its constituent meeting, the Committee also elected Witold Waszczykowski (ECR, PL) as the Committee’s First Vice-Chair. The remaining three Vice-Chairs will be elected at a future meeting. Together, the Chair and Vice-Chairs will form the Bureau of the Committee.

AFET - Committee on Foreign Affairs

CULT - Committee on Culture and Education

<center>Image: © Dragoș Asaftei | Adobe Stock</center>

At their gathering in the Netherlands, leaders from NATO countries are expected to discuss how to ramp up defence spending in the context of Russia’s continued war of aggression against Ukraine and calls from US President Donald Trump for European countries to invest more and take greater responsibility for their defence.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte recently warned that Russia could be ready to use military force against the Western alliance within five years and said that NATO allies must have a credible defence. Ahead of the summit, he has urged NATO members to commit to spending 5% of their national income on defence, a call that is expected to feature prominently in the summit deliberations.

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

FEMM - Committee on Women's Rights and Gender Equality

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.

SANT - Committee on Public Health

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

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

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

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

EU Budget for 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women

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

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

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

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

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

European Parliament delegation to COP 29 in Baku, Azerbaijan

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

Enhancing Europe’s civilian and defence preparedness and readiness

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BUDG Press Point - Multi-annual Financial Framework (MFF) beyond 2027 and Own Resources

TRAN - Exchange of views with Commissioner Apostolas Tzitzikostas on the next MFF and its impact on transport and tourism

The European Commission is the executive body of the European Union. Under the Treaties, its tasks are to 'promote the general interest of the Union', without prejudice to individual Member States, to 'ensure the application of the Treaties' and measures adopted under them, for instance through taking infringement measures against Member States who do not correctly implement EU legislation, and to 'execute the budget'. It also holds a near monopoly on the right of legislative initiative, alone proposing virtually all EU legislation to the European Parliament and the Council of the EU. The College of Commissioners is currently composed of 27 individuals: the President, Ursula von der Leyen, 6 Executive Vice-Presidents and 20 Commissioners. The Executive Vice-Presidents have a dual role; they manage a specific portfolio and coordinate efforts across the main priorities of the Commission's political agenda. The other Commissioners are each responsible for a specific policy area, working under the guidance of the Executive Vice-Presidents. The table below shows for each Commissioner the Vice-President(s) guiding work on their portfolio (in certain cases, Commissioners work directly under the guidance of the President).

European Commission: Political make-up of the College of Commissioners

The Council of the European Union – often referred to as the Council of Ministers, or simply the Council – forms one part of the legislature and the budgetary authority of the Union. The Council and European Parliament together adopt much of the EU's legislation and the Union's annual budget, on the basis of proposals put forward by the executive, the European Commission. The Council also takes decisions on specific areas of EU action, in particular in common foreign and security policy (CFSP), where it seeks to coordinate Member States' positions, and concludes – subject to the consent of the Parliament – international agreements, usually negotiated by the Commission on the basis of a mandate from the Council. The Council of the EU is distinct from the European Council, which is a separate institution made up of the Heads of State or Government of the Member States. The European Council is responsible for defining the general political directions and priorities for the Union, but does not have formal legislative functions.

Rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union

As every year, two annual procedures are central to the budgetary work of the European Parliament and the other institutions – agreeing on the 2026 budget, and granting discharge for the implementation of the 2024 budget. In addition, in 2025, the process of agreeing the next multiannual financial framework (MFF) for the years from 2028 will also get under way. This timeline sets out the main steps in the three procedures up to end 2025.

Timeline for the three key EU budgetary procedures up to end 2025

The widespread use of military drones spans reconnaissance, strikes, logistics and naval operations, with both state and non-state players increasingly relying on unmanned systems. The European Union (EU) has prioritised drone development and countermeasures, funding and coordinating research and capability development through the European Defence Fund and Permanent Structured Cooperation. The EU is also fostering synergies between the civilian and the defence sectors, addressing strategic dependencies and collaborating with NATO. Meanwhile, drone regulation remains fragmented: civilian drones are subject to comprehensive EU rules, while military drone use falls under international law. The European Parliament has called for transparency, adherence to international law and a ban on LAWS, while supporting defence innovation and proposing an EU drone package to stimulate joint procurement and industry participation.

Most common drone uses

Enforcement of the Digital Markets Act is under way. The European Commission has launched formal proceedings against three major providers of core platform services. The Commission's preliminary findings suggest breaches of EU rules. To date, two of these preliminary findings have been confirmed, resulting in non-compliance decisions and fines for the companies in April 2025.

Digital Markets Act enforcement: Gatekeeper designation

Pollination is a fundamental process for the survival of our ecosystems and ultimately, of our planet. Nearly 90 % of the world's wild flowering plant species depend on pollination, along with more than 75 % of the world's food crops and 35 % of global agricultural land. Without pollination, many interconnected species and processes functioning within the ecosystem would collapse.

Bees and pollinators

EU competence does not extend to recognition of marital or family status. In this area, national regulations vary, with some Member States offering same-sex couples the right to marry, some allowing alternative forms of registration, and others not providing any legal status for same-sex couples. Same-sex couples may or may not have the right to adopt children and to access assisted reproduction. Combating discrimination has become part of EU internal and external policies, and is the subject of numerous resolutions of the European Parliament.

Same sex unions and adoption rights

Russia's war on Ukraine has been a wake-up call for many EU Member States' defence budgets. Rising from €218 billion in 2021 to €326 billion in 2024, a further increase of at least €100 billion is projected by 2027. Despite these significant increases, most experts note that current geopolitical developments will require much more.

EU Member State defence expenditure

For the European Union to compete globally while continuing to ensure progress in environmental, social and fundamental rights, more strategic and collective action is imperative. EU businesses could harness the full potential of the single market and economic and monetary union and challenge competitors in fast-growing and future-oriented economic activities such as digital and clean energy production. This study finds that, compared to a situation where Member States act alone, a coordinated approach at EU level could bring an additional 0.9 % of GDP in 2035. A more ambitious integrated approach could be even more positive, with a benefit estimated at 2.6 % of additional GDP in 2035.

Cost of non-Europe in strategic innovation

Poverty has many dimensions. Following recent crises, not least the COVID-19 pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis, some of poverty's known dimensions have evolved while new forms have emerged. Addressing poverty remains mainly the responsibility of EU countries' governments acting in complex national social settings. The EU meanwhile seeks to coordinate Member States' efforts and offers support in the form of funding and data. The new European Commission is stepping up efforts to meet the EU's poverty reduction targets.

EU action against poverty

Rare diseases, though seldom recognised and frequently misdiagnosed, affect approximately 36 million people in the EU. Despite their significant collective prevalence, patients with rare diseases are often overlooked by healthcare systems, facing challenges in diagnosis, treatment, and access to advances in research. Researchers are increasingly using networks to share their findings and make better progress, giving new hope to patients.

Rare Diseases: Advances in research give patients new hope

Batteries are vital to the EU’s clean energy transition, industrial future, and strategic autonomy. While the sector benefits from strong R&D support, it faces challenges such as reliance on third countries, high costs, and competition from regions with lower environmental standards. Sustainable value chains and recycling could help, but uncertainty remains over the EU’s ability to meet future demand. Rising costs, market slowdowns, and gigafactory setbacks, including Northvolt’s collapse, raise concerns. To secure a resilient battery supply chain, the EU focuses on strategic coordination, regulatory frameworks, and funding, offering key lessons for industrial policy.

Battery supply chain

The digital information sphere has become the main space for public debate, shaping opinions and access to information. In the past decade, it has also become a geostrategic battleground, with authoritarian states manipulating public opinion to weaken democracies. At the same time, corporate rivalry over emerging technologies, particularly AI, has intensified. AI-driven disinformation poses growing risks to democratic information ecosystems. Strengthening information integrity is crucial to safeguarding human rights and freedom of expression. Multilateral efforts to enhance resilience align with the EU’s planned European Democracy Shield, building on existing measures and fostering new partnerships.

Information Manipulation and the EU response

The European elections are the largest transnational elections in the world. There are some common rules that apply in all EU countries but many details vary by country.


Election days range from Thursday 6 June to Sunday 9 June and it is up to each country to decide when and how they organise the vote.


The number of MEPs elected varies between countries: bigger countries get more seats than smaller ones. Due to changes in the size of the population, some EU countries will get extra seats in the upcoming elections compared to the outgoing Parliament. In total 15 seats will be added.


There are also differences in other aspects of voting, for example regarding the minimum voting age or the rules about voting from abroad.

EU Elections 2024

The European elections are the largest transnational elections in the world. There are some common rules that apply in all EU countries but many details vary by country.


Election days range from Thursday 6 June to Sunday 9 June and it is up to each country to decide when and how they organise the vote.

Map European elections 2024

Online shopping, take-away food, coffee to go... Packaging waste is growing. Find out how much is being produced and how the EU wants to reverse the trend

How to reduce packaging waste in the EU

With war having returned to the European continent, measuring the level of threats to peace, security and democracy around the world – as the 'Normandy Index' does – is more important than ever. The annual Index was presented for the first time at the Normandy Peace Forum in June 2019, as a result of a partnership between the European Parliament and the Region of Normandy. The Index has been designed and prepared by the European Parliamentary Research Service (EPRS), in conjunction with and on the basis of data provided by the Institute for Economics and Peace. This paper sets out the findings of the 2023 exercise, which draws on data compiled in 2022, and explains how the Index can be used to compare peace – defined on the basis of a given country's performance against a range of predetermined threats – across countries and regions. It is complemented by 61 individual country case studies, derived from the Index. The paper forms part of the EPRS contribution to the 2023 Normandy World Peace Foru

Mapping threats to peace and democracy worldwide: Normandy Index 2023

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

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

Euroscola

Committee on Regional Development Extraordinary meeting Committee on Regional Development

REGI

Special committee on the European Democracy Shield Ordinary meeting

EUDS

Committee on Petitions Ordinary meeting

PETI

Press point by Siegfried MUREŞAN (EPP, RO) and Carla TAVARES (S&D, PT), Co-rapporteurs, following the BUDG Committee meeting on Multi-annual Financial Framework beyond 2027 and Own Resources

Committee on Transport and Tourism Ordinary meeting

TRAN

Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development Extraordinary meeting Exchange of views with Commissioner Hansen: presentation of the CAP proposals

AGRI

Committee on Fisheries Ordinary meeting

PECH

Committee on Budgets Ordinary meeting

BUDG

Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality Ordinary meeting

FEMM

Committee on Transport and Tourism Ordinary meeting Public hearing on Administrative burden

Committee on Security and Defence Ordinary meeting

SEDE

Committee on Public Health Ordinary meeting

SANT

TRAN - Public hearing on Bureaucratic burden reduction in different transport modes

AGRI - Exchange of views with Commissioner Hansen: presentation of the legislative proposal for the CAP after 2027

BUDG - Exchange of views with Piotr SERAFIN, Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration on the MFF beyond 2027 and Own Resources

SEDE - The Security and Defence dimension of space and the EU's Space Act

TRAN - Presentation of the priorities of the Danish Presidency of the Council

SEDE AFET - Exchange of views with Radmila Shekerinska, NATO Deputy Secretary General

CULT - Presentation of the priorities of the Danish Presidency of the Council

SEDE - Capacity building on security, defence and law-enforcement policies for the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine

Danish Presidency of the Council contemporary art exhibition

FEMM - Presentation of the priorities of the Danish Presidency of the Council

SEDE - Presentation of the priorities of the Danish Presidency of the Council

SANT - Presentation of the priorities of the residency of the Council

PECH - Presentation of the priorities of the Danish Presidency of the Council

AFCO - Presentation of the programme of the Danish EU Council Presidency

ITRE - Presentation of the priorities of the Danish Presidency of the Council

This news item sows extracts from the meeting of the Committee on Budgets with Piotr SERAFIN, European Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration, on the Multi-annual Financial Framework beyond 2027 and Own Resources. The multiannual financial framework (MFF) is established for a period of seven years and lays down the maximum spending ceilings for different policy areas. After having secured Parliament’s consent, granted by a majority of its component members, EU governments adopt the MFF regulation by unanimity. The EU’s current long-term budget runs out on 31 December 2027.

BUDG meeting with Piotr SERAFIN, European Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration, on the Multi-annual Financial Framework beyond 2027 and Own Resources: extracts from the meeting

Siegfried MUREŞAN (EPP, RO) and Carla TAVARES (S&D, PT), Co-rapporteurs, and Sandra GÓMEZ LÓPEZ (S&D, ES) and Danuše NERUDOVÁ (EPP, CZ), co-rapporteurs for the Own Resources on the EU long-term budget, hold a press conference following the BUDG Committee meeting on Multi-annual Financial Framework beyond 2027 and Own Resources. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

MEPs in the Budgets Committee (BUDG) discuss with Piotr SERAFIN, European Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration, the proposal for the post 2027 European Union long-term budget, i.e. the multi-annual financial framework (MFF) beyond 2027 and own resources, right after its adoption by the Commission. Closing statements by Johan VAN OVERTVELDT (ECR, BE), Chair of BUDG Committee.

Multi-annual Financial Framework (MFF) beyond 2027 and Own Resources: Closing statements by Johan VAN OVERTVELDT (ECR, BE), Chair of BUDG Committee

MEPs in the Budgets Committee (BUDG) discuss with Piotr SERAFIN, European Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration, the proposal for the post 2027 European Union long-term budget, i.e. the multi-annual financial framework (MFF) beyond 2027 and own resources, right after its adoption by the Commission. Catch-the-eye with Piotr SERAFIN, European Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration.

Multi-annual Financial Framework (MFF) beyond 2027 and Own Resources: Catch-the-eye with Piotr SERAFIN, European Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration

MEPs in the Budgets Committee (BUDG) discuss with Piotr SERAFIN, European Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration, the proposal for the post 2027 European Union long-term budget, i.e. the multi-annual financial framework (MFF) beyond 2027 and own resources, right after its adoption by the Commission. Answer by Piotr SERAFIN, European Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration - BUDG Committee.

Multi-annual Financial Framework (MFF) beyond 2027 and Own Resources: Answer by Piotr SERAFIN, European Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration - BUDG Committee

MEPs in the Budgets Committee (BUDG) discuss with Piotr SERAFIN, European Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration, the proposal for the post 2027 European Union long-term budget, i.e. the multi-annual financial framework (MFF) beyond 2027 and own resources, right after its adoption by the Commission. Statements by MFF and Own Resources Shadow Rapporteurs - BUDG Committee.

Multi-annual Financial Framework beyond 2027 and Own Resources: Statements by MFF and Own Resources Shadow Rapporteurs - BUDG Committee

MEPs in the Budgets Committee (BUDG) discuss with Piotr SERAFIN, European Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration, the proposal for the post 2027 European Union long-term budget, i.e. the multi-annual financial framework (MFF) beyond 2027 and own resources, right after its adoption by the Commission. Statements by Siegfried MUREŞAN (EPP, RO), Carla TAVARES (S&D, PT), Danuše NERUDOVÁ (EPP, CZ) and Sandra GÓMEZ LÓPEZ (S&D, ES), MFF and Own Resources Co-Rapporteurs.

Multi-annual Financial Framework beyond 2027 and Own Resources: statements by MFF and Own Resources Co-Rapporteurs - BUDG Committee

MEPs in the Budgets Committee (BUDG) discuss with Piotr SERAFIN, European Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration, the proposal for the post 2027 European Union long-term budget, i.e. the multi-annual financial framework (MFF) beyond 2027 and own resources, right after its adoption by the Commission. Opening statements by Johan VAN OVERTVELDT (ECR, BE), Chair of BUDG and by Piotr SERAFIN, Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Multi-annual Financial Framework beyond 2027 and Own Resources: opening statements by Johan VAN OVERTVELDT (ECR, BE), Chair of BUDG and by Piotr SERAFIN, Commissioner for Budget, Anti-Fraud and Public Administration - BUDG Committee

Stefano BONACCINI (S&D, IT), Rapporteur, holds a press conference on Unfair trade practices. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Press conference by Stefano BONACCINI (S&D, IT), Rapporteur, on Unfair trade practices

Co-rapporteurs Siegfried Mureşan and Carla Tavares hold a press conference on Parliament's priorities and expectations for the EU's post-2027 long-term budget ahead of the Commission's proposal, which is due to be unveiled. MEPs call for a more ambitious budget than the current spending ceiling of 1% of the EU-27’s gross national income given the urgent need to address future security concerns and raise Europe’s competitiveness in the global economy without undermining support for the European Union’s efforts to support its regions and rural communities. To be adopted, the next long-term budget will need the approval of the Parliament, granted by a majority of its component members. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Press conference by Siegfried MUREŞAN (EPP, RO) and Carla TAVARES (S&D, PT), Co-rapporteurs, on Parliament's priorities on MFF ahead of Commission proposal

Denmark’s ministers present their priorities in meetings with parliamentary committees as Denmark holds the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU until the end of 2025. Marie BJERRE, Minister for European Affairs, Peter HUMMELGAARD, Minister of Justice, Kaare DYBVAD, Minister for Immigration and Integration, Torsten SCHACK PEDERSEN, Minister of Resilience and Preparedness, Morten BØDSKOV, Minister for Industry, Business and Financial Affairs, and Caroline Stage OLSEN, Minister for Digital Affairs, Lars Løkke RASMUSSEN, Minister for Foreign Affairs, presents the EU policy priorities of the Danish Presidency of the Council of the EU in the Committees on Foreign Affairs (AFET), Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO), International Trade (INTA), and Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE). This news item shows extract from the AFET, IMCO, INTA and LIBE committees.

Presentation of the EU Council's priorities by Danish Ministers: extracts from the EP Committee meetings (AFET, LIBE, IMCO, INTA)

With 175 votes in favour, 360 against, and 18 abstentions, the European Parliament rejected a motion of censure against the European Commission. The vote on the motion took place by roll call. To be adopted, a two-thirds majority of the votes cast, representing a majority of component Members of Parliament, would have been needed.

Voting Session: motion of censure on the European Commission

Roberta METSOLA, EP President, issues a statement on the anniversary since the beginning of 10th legislative term and on Multiannual financial framework (MFF). This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Statement by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, on one year anniversary since the beginning of 10th legislative term and on Multiannual financial framework (MFF)

MEPs debate on stockpiling strategies and strengthening response capacities for a changing risk and threat landscape during the plenary session. Opening statement by Hadja LAHBIB, European Commissioner for Equality, and European Commissioner for Preparedness and Crisis Management. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Commission statement - Presentation of the Stockpiling Strategies - strengthening response capacities for a changing risk and threat landscape: Opening statement by Hadja LAHBIB, European Commissioner for Preparedness and Crisis Management

MEPs debate on stockpiling strategies and strengthening response capacities for a changing risk and threat landscape during the plenary session. Closing statement by Hadja LAHBIB, European Commissioner for Equality, and European Commissioner for Preparedness and Crisis Management.

Commission statement - Presentation of the Stockpiling Strategies - strengthening response capacities for a changing risk and threat landscape: Closing statement by Hadja LAHBIB, European Commissioner for Preparedness and Crisis Management

MEPs debate on stockpiling strategies and strengthening response capacities for a changing risk and threat landscape during the plenary session. MEPs debate.

Commission statement - Presentation of the Stockpiling Strategies - strengthening response capacities for a changing risk and threat landscape: MEPs debate

First part of the MEPs debate on the EU Preparedness Union in light of the upcoming wildfire and droughts season.

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