At a glance: the future of EU agriculture; the vote on a financial assistance package in support of Ukraine; and the schedule of the hearings of the Commissioners-designate.

Wiadomości w skrócie – 14/10/2024 - polski

At a glance: the rise of religious intolerance across the EU; a resolution on current democratic backsliding in Georgia; and a resolution on Russia’s interference in Moldova.

Wiadomości w skrócie – 11/10/2024 - polski

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

Wiadomości w skrócie – 10/10/2024 - polski

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

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

EPRS policy podcast - Confirmation hearings of the Commissioners-designate

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

Wiadomości w skrócie – 09/10/2024 - polski

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

Wiadomości w skrócie – 08/10/2024 - polski

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

Wiadomości w skrócie – 07/10/2024 - polski

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

Wiadomości w skrócie – 04/10/2024 - polski

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

Wiadomości w skrócie – 03/10/2024 - polski

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

Wiadomości w skrócie – 02/10/2024 - polski

Do LUX – Europejskiej Nagrody Publiczności 2025 zakwalifikowano pięć filmów:  Animal, Dahomey, Flow, Intercepted i Julie Keeps Quiet.
Nagroda LUX ma zwrócić uwagę na filmy o tematyce społecznej i politycznej. Ma też zachęcać do debaty i refleksji, a filmy konkursowe mają przyczynić się do wzmacniania tożsamości europejskiej.

LUX – Europejska Nagroda Publiczności 2025

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

Wiadomości w skrócie – 01/10/2024 - polski

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

Wiadomości w skrócie – 30/09/2024 - polski

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

Wiadomości w skrócie – 27/09/2024 - polski

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

Wiadomości w skrócie – 26/09/2024 - polski

Austria has been an EU Member since 1st January 1995. Austria is a federal parliamentary republic with a head of government - the chancellor - and a head of state - the president.

Austria ihas also been a member of the Euro area since 1 January 1999 and a member of Schengen since December 1997.

There are 19 members of the European Parliament from Austria. The country held the EU Presidency in 1998, 2006 and 2018.

Austria consists of 9 states (Bundesländer). Both regional and federal governments exercise executive power. The federal Parliament consists of 2 chambers: the Lower House (Nationalrat) - directly elected - and the Upper House (Bundesrat) - elected by regional parliaments.

EU - Austria

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

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

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

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

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

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

Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament 2022-2024

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

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

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

Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament 2024-2027

EMPL - Committee on Employment and Social Affairs

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

TRAN - Committee on Transport and Tourism

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

On Wednesday 10 July, the Committe on Development (DEVE) met for the first time in its new composition and elected as its Chair Swedish MEP Tomas TOBÉ (EPP). The Committee also elected four Vice Chairs: Pierrette HERZBERGER-FOFANA (Greens/EFA), Norbert NEUSER (S&amp;D), Chrysoula ZACHAROPOULOU (Renew Europe), Erik MARQUARDT (Greens/EFA). The next meeting of the Committee will take place in the morning of 24 July and is set to discuss the state of play of development cooperation, the 2020 budget and the future partnership with ACP countries. The Finish EU Council Presidency will set out its priorities, in particular in humanitarian aid.

DEVE - Committee on Development

The EU is a long-term partner of Iraq, cooperating in the field of stabilisation, security and the political reform agenda.

 
In response to the challenges Iraq is facing following the territorial defeat of Da'esh, including ongoing humanitarian, stabilisation, early recovery, reform and reconciliation needs, the EU adopted on 22 January 2018 a new EU strategy for Iraq. The strategy demonstrates the EU's continued commitment to support the Iraqi people and their government as they seek to tackle these key challenges.

EU - Iraq

The EU and China are two of the biggest traders in the world, with China being the EU's second trading partner.&nbsp; The EU-China Human Rights Dialogue was launched in 1995.&nbsp;Parliament strongly condemns the Chinese government-led system of forced labour – in particular the exploitation of Uyghur, ethnic Kazakh and Kyrgyz, and other Muslim minority groups – in factories within and outside internment camps in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region.

Over the past year, EU-China bilateral relations have deteriorated, notably related to a growing number of irritants (i.e., China’s counter-measures to EU sanctions on human rights, economic coercion and trade measures against the single market, and China’s positioning on the war in Ukraine).

During his recent visit to China, Commission Executive Vice-President Valdis Dombrovskis told his counterparts that “competition must be fair” and urged Beijing to address the lack of reciprocity in economic relations, as the EU’s trade deficit with China in 2022 reached almost 400 billion euro. Mr Dombrovskis said that the EU and China are at a significant political and economic crossroads, and warned that China’s stance on the war in Ukraine could jeopardise its relationship with the EU.

His visit came after Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced during her State of the European Union address that the Commission would launch a probe into whether China's electric vehicle industry is receiving unfair subsidies

EU - China

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

On 24 February Russian troops invaded Ukraine. Shortly before&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir Putin recognized&nbsp;two breakaway regions in eastern Ukraine&nbsp; as independent.&nbsp;The Conference of Presidents of the EP condemned the Russian attack on Ukraine in the strongest possible terms. "Ukraine is an independent and sovereign nation and its territorial integrity is non-negotiable. The invasion is unjustified and illegal. It is a threat to European and regional stability, as well as to the rules-based world order. The attack targets our model of democratic society. It cannot go unanswered, " says declaration of the COP.

"The Russian invasion into Ukraine is part of President Putin’s destabilisation agenda. It is a path that will bring the Kremlin in direct confrontation with Europe and the rule-based world-order. It is a path that pits authoritarianism against democracy. It is a path that we cannot allow him to walk unchallenged," said EP President Roberta Metsola.

European Union leaders met for a special European Council in Brussels on 24 February&nbsp;and adopted a set of sanctions related to the the financial sector, the energy and transport sectors,dual-use goods, exports, Russian individuals etc.&nbsp;

Ukraine is a priority partner for the European Union (EU). The EU supports Ukraine in ensuring a stable, prosperous and democratic future for its citizens and is unwavering in its support for Ukraine’s independence, territorial integrity and sovereignty. The Association Agreement (AA), including its Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) signed in 2014, is the main tool for bringing Ukraine and the EU closer together. Since 2014, the EU and the Financial Institutions have mobilised more than €15 billion in grants and loans to support the reform process in the country, with strong conditionality on continued progress.

As a result of the cooperation with Ukraine’s Verkhovna Rada in the field of democracy support, European Parliament launched on 11 March the website “<a href="https://ukraine.europarl.europa.eu/en/home.html" style="color:#0563c1; text-decoration:underline" target="_blank">The EU stands with Ukraine</a>” (in English and Ukrainian) provides the latest news, videos and podcasts, relevant legislation and resolutions to show how the EU is helping Ukraine. Content from the Ukrainian Parliament could also be shared on the site. Actively supporting EU efforts to promote democracy and human rights in the world is one of Parliament's core responsibilities.

EU - Ukraine

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

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;

Since then, the EU and its international allies have rallied firmly behind the Kyiv government. This support has resulted in unprecedented levels of financial aid, assistance, weapons deliveries to Ukraine, sweeping sanctions against Moscow, and the granting of EU candidate status to Ukraine and Moldova.

On 1&nbsp;March&nbsp;the European Parliament held an extraordinary plenary session in Brussels to assess Russia’s military assault on Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;and the Speaker of the Ukrainian Verkhovna Rada (parliament) Ruslan Stefanchuk spoke live from Kiev.&nbsp;The European Parliament President Roberta Metsola was in Kyiv on 1 April&nbsp;to express the European Union´s support of&nbsp;the Ukrainian people and to condemn the Russian attack. On&nbsp;8 June&nbsp;Stefanchuk adressed Parliament in the Strasbourg hemicycle.

Following the atrocities carried out by Vladimir Putin’s regime against Ukrainian civilians, the European Parliament has&nbsp;recognised Russia as a state sponsor of terrorism in a resolution on November 2022.

On 9th February 2023, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy&nbsp;addressed the European Parliament during an extraordinary plenary session in Brussels.

In March 2024, &nbsp;MEPs voted to to amend the Commission’s proposal to suspend import duties and quotas on Ukrainian agricultural exports to the EU for another year, from 6 June 2024 to 5 June 2025.&nbsp;

Russian aggression against Ukraine

The European Parliament supports media professionals reporting on parliamentary activities, providing both content and technical facilities for video, radio, multimedia and photo production. The EP Audiovisual teams coordinate state of the art studios for TV broadcast, multimedia, and radio in Strasbourg and in Brussels.

EP Audiovisual Services

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

Announcement of the 3 finalists for Sakharov Prize 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Meeting of the Conference of Presidents

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

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

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

Ensuring sustainable, decent and affordable housing in Europe

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

Presentation of the programme of activities of the Hungarian Presidency

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

Threats to political pluralism in Georgia

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

Strengthening Moldova's resilience against Russian interference

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

The crisis facing the EU’s automotive industry

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

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

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

Preparation of the European Council of 17-18 October 2024

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

Facing fake news, populism and disinformation in the EU

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

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

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

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

On Monday afternoon, MEPs debate with the Commission the anniversary of the Hamas terrorist attack that killed 1,200 Israelis on 7 October 2023 and triggered the current war in Gaza and wider Middle East destabilisation.

One year after the 7 October terrorist attacks by Hamas

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President to Vienna (Austria) - Meeting with Wolfgang SOBOTKA, President of the Austrian National Council

AGRI - Public Hearing on Strategic Dialogue on the Future of EU Agriculture

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?

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

30 years of EU single market: benefits and challenges

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

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

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

Cybersecurity: main and emerging threats

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

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

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

The impact of textile production and waste on the environment

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

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

Gender pay gap in Europe: facts and figures

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

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

Waste management in the EU: infographic with facts and figures

Euroscola

Award Ceremony for the Daphne Caruana Galizia Prize for Journalism 2024

Pre-session briefing

Committee on Budgetary Control

CONT

Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs

LIBE

Subcommittee meeting on Security and Defence

SEDE

Subcommittee meeting on Human Rights

DROI

Committee on Industry, Research and Energy

ITRE

Delegation to the EU-Mexico Joint Parliamentary Committee

Committee on Fisheries

PECH

Subcommittee meeting on Tax Matters

FISC

Subcommittee meeting on Public Health

SANT

INTA / Poldep - Study presentation on EU's trade agenda for the new term

INTA

EMPL - Exchange of views with the Executive Directors of the Agencies under the EMPL remit

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President to Vienna (Austria) - Meeting with Karl NEHAMMER, Austrian Federal Chancellor

DEVE - The humanitarian situation in Lebanon - Exchange of views with the Commission and humanitarian partners

TRAN - Presentation of the priorities of the Hungarian Presidency

Young Political Leaders of Ukraine - Module 1 : Getting to know the EU and its institutions

Roberta METSOLA, EP President meets with Johan FLODERUS, Swedish diplomat

EP Plenary session - Commission statement - Consequences of the devastating forest fires in the Amazon and the importance of the Amazon for climate change

EP Plenary session - Voting session

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

EP Plenary session - The rise of religious intolerance in Europe

CONT - European Court of Auditors Annual Report 2023

EP Plenary session - Protecting the EU budget and ensuring that EU funds do not benefit entities or individuals linked to terrorist or Islamist movement

EP Plenary session - Debates on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law

EP Plenary session - Urgent need to revise the medical devices regulation

W UE duże platformy internetowe mają obowiązek chronić nas przed dezinformacją, nielegalnymi treściami i nieuczciwymi praktykami. 
Muszą działać zgodnie z zasadami określonymi w akcie o usługach cyfrowych, pierwszym na świecie kompleksowym prawodawstwie, które ma zapewnić bezpieczny, sprawiedliwy świat cyfrowy oraz stać na straży wolności i demokracji. 
Podczas debaty plenarnej we wrześniu 2024 r. posłowie do Parlamentu Europejskiego rozmawiali z Komisją Europejską na temat jego egzekwowania.   
Więcej informacji na temat aktu o usługach cyfrowych na stronie: https://www.europarl.europa.eu/topics/pl/article/20211209STO19124/eu-digital-markets-act-and-digital-services-act-explained

Jak w praktyce wdrażane są przepisy cyfrowe UE? 9:16

Jak w praktyce wdrażane są przepisy cyfrowe UE?

Posłowie do Parlamentu Europejskiego debatowali nad ważnym raportem, w którym wezwano do podjęcia szybkich działań mających na celu zwiększenie konkurencyjności gospodarki UE. 
Autor, były Prezes Europejskiego Banku Centralnego Mario Draghi, twierdzi, że UE pozostaje w tyle za USA i Chinami w obliczu powolnego wzrostu gospodarczego, wysokich cen energii i zagrożenia dla bezpieczeństwa. 
Powiedział posłom w Strasburgu, że potrzeba dodatkowych inwestycji wysokości 800 miliardów euro rocznie, aby pobudzić innowacyjność, chronić standardy życia i zachować europejski styl życia. 
Wielu posłów do PE z zadowoleniem przyjęło jego apel do działania, niektórzy domagali się większego wsparcia dla kluczowych gałęzi przemysłu oraz zielonej i cyfrowej transformacji. Inni opowiadali się za większą swobodą rynku i ostrzegali, że działania mające na celu walkę ze zmianami klimatycznymi mogą zaszkodzić wzrostowi gospodarczemu.

Raport Draghiego: Parlament Europejski debatuje nad planem pobudzenia gospodarki UE

Odkąd Rosja zaatakowała Ukrainę na pełną skalę w 2022 r., Unia Europejska wspiera obywateli Ukrainy, przyjmuje uchodźców, zapewnia wyposażenie obronne i pomoc finansową. Wojna ta wywiera straszny wpływ na całe społeczeństwo ukraińskie i dla wielu młodych ludzi oznacza przerwę w edukacji. 
 
Przy wsparciu finansowym UE, Kamil - profesor informatyki w Czechach założyli platformę Uniwersytetu Cyfrowego, aby pomóc ukraińskim studentom kontynuować ich naukę online.
A Olena kontynuuje kształcenie w UE jako studentka Erasmus+ i młoda ambasadorka europejska w Gdańsku w Polsce.

Zapewnianie edukacji dla obywateli Ukrainy w czasie wojny: Poznajcie Kamila i Olenę - 9:16

Odkąd Rosja zaatakowała Ukrainę na pełną skalę w 2022 r., Unia Europejska wspiera obywateli Ukrainy, przyjmuje uchodźców, zapewnia wyposażenie obronne i pomoc finansową. Wojna ta wywiera straszny wpływ na całe społeczeństwo ukraińskie i dla wielu młodych ludzi oznacza przerwę w edukacji. 

Przy wsparciu finansowym UE, Kamil - profesor informatyki w Czechach założyli platformę Uniwersytetu Cyfrowego, aby pomóc ukraińskim studentom kontynuować ich naukę online.

A Olena kontynuuje kształcenie w UE jako studentka Erasmus+ i młoda ambasadorka europejska w Gdańsku w Polsce.

Zapewnianie edukacji dla obywateli Ukrainy w czasie wojny: Poznajcie Kamila i Olenę

Parlament Europejski zachęca osoby z całej UE do angażowania się w proces demokratyczny.

Together.eu jest wspólnotą inspirowaną przez Parlament Europejski, gdzie możecie spotkać - online lub offline - osoby, którym zależy na demokracji i sprawić, aby was głos na temat spraw Europejskich był usłyszany.

Podobnie jak Mireya w Madrycie oraz Cille w Danii, wolontariusze z together.eu z całej Unii spotykają się, debatują, wymieniają poglądy i organizują wydarzenia, aby podkreślać co instytucje UE robią dla obywateli i dlaczego udział w demokracji jest taki ważny.

Poznaj swoją wspólnotę i przyłącz się do niej w together.eu.

Zaangażuj się we wzmacnianie demokracji UE! Poznaj Mireyę i Cille

Co jest lepsze niż pogawędka o demokracji? Pogawędka o demokracji nad bezpłatną kawą!
Poznajcie Cille, wolontariuszkę z together.eu, która założyła mobilną kawiarnię, coffee truck, w Kopenhadze, by zachęcać innych do udziału w demokracji w UE. 
Wraz z jej zespołem organizuje wydarzenia dotyczące UE przez cały rok, aby zachęcać innych do rozmowy o tym, co UE może zrobić dla nich i jaką rolę odgrywają instytucje UE w życiu każdego z nas. 
Together.eu jest wspólnotą ludzi, którym zależy na UE i jej przyszłości. Poprzez wspieranie wspólnoty together.eu, Parlament Europejski zachęca osoby z całej UE do angażowania się w proces demokratyczny.

Wzmacnianie udziału w demokracji z Cille, wolontariuszką together.eu 9:16

Rosyjska inwazja na Ukrainę wywołała kryzys energetyczny i wysoką inflację w całej Europie. Parlament Europejski chce zapewnić, by UE była wystarczająco odporna na podobne kryzysy w przyszłości. Dlatego właśnie wspiera odważne, wizjonerskie projekty, które wzmacniają naszą gospodarkę i społeczeństwo.

Erik pomagał szwedzkim firmom Amokabel i Bennesveds Åkeri w założeniu pierwszej w kraju samowystarczalnej stacji wodorowej: Uppvidinge Vätgas. Zapewnia ona czyste paliwo wyprodukowane z wykorzystaniem lokalnej siły wiatru. 

W Irlandii Hannah jest specjalistką od węgla w Bord na Móna, spółce, która przeszła z pozyskiwania torfu na paliwo do stania się liderem w produkcji czystej energii. Pomaga w rekultywacji torfowisk, które zawierają ogromne ilości węgla, pomagając przy tym spełnić cele klimatyczne UE.
 
Inicjatywy takie jak te finansowane przez europejski Instrument na rzecz Odbudowy i Odporności, są w samym sercu silniejszej i odporniejszej Europy.

Budowa przyszłej gospodarki UE: poznajcie Erika i Hannah - 9L16

Rosyjska inwazja na Ukrainę wywołała kryzys energetyczny i wysoką inflację w całej Europie. Parlament Europejski chce zapewnić, by UE była wystarczająco odporna na podobne kryzysy w przyszłości. Dlatego właśnie wspiera odważne, wizjonerskie projekty, które wzmacniają naszą gospodarkę i społeczeństwo.

Erik pomagał szwedzkim firmom Amokabel i Bennesveds Åkeri w założeniu pierwszej w kraju samowystarczalnej stacji wodorowej: Uppvidinge Vätgas. Zapewnia ona czyste paliwo wyprodukowane z wykorzystaniem lokalnej siły wiatru. 

W Irlandii Hannah jest specjalistką od węgla w Bord na Móna, spółce, która przeszła z pozyskiwania torfu na paliwo do stania się liderem w produkcji czystej energii. Pomaga w rekultywacji torfowisk, które zawierają ogromne ilości węgla, pomagając przy tym spełnić cele klimatyczne UE.

Inicjatywy takie jak te finansowane przez europejski Instrument na rzecz Odbudowy i Odporności, są w samym sercu silniejszej i odporniejszej Europy.

Budowa przyszłej gospodarki UE: poznajcie Erika i Hannah

W czerwcu miliony europejczyków oddały glos w największych międzynarodowych wyborach. Głosy zostały przeliczone, nowi posłowie do PE wybrani, zobaczmy jak ukształtował się nowy Parlament Europejski. Ilu posłów wchodzi w skład każdej grupy politycznej? Ilu posłów reprezentuje każde państwo Kogo wybrali na stanowiska Przewodniczącego Parlamentu Europejskiego i Komisji Europejskiej?

Jaki jest skład nowego Parlamentu Europejskiego?

W czerwcu miliony europejczyków oddały glos w największych międzynarodowych wyborach. Głosy zostały przeliczone, nowi posłowie do PE wybrani, zobaczmy jak ukształtował się nowy Parlament Europejski. 
 
Ilu posłów wchodzi w skład każdej grupy politycznej? Ilu posłów reprezentuje każde państwo Kogo wybrali na stanowiska Przewodniczącego Parlamentu Europejskiego i Komisji Europejskiej?

Jaki jest skład nowego Parlamentu Europejskiego? 9:16

W lipcu 2024 r. Parlament Europejski potwierdził, że Ursula von der Leyen została wybrana na drugą kadencję na stanowisko Przewodniczącej Komisji. Będzie przewodniczyła zespołowi komisarzy - po jednym z każdego kraju UE - którzy będą zgłaszali i monitorowali wdrażanie przepisów UE przez kolejnych pięć lat.    
 
Wybór Przewodniczącego Komisji Europejskiej jest jednym z pierwszych zadań Parlamentu po wyborach europejskich. 
    
Głowy państw UE wyznaczają kandydata na Przewodniczącego Komisji z uwzględnieniem wyników wyborów europejskich.    
   
Kandydat taki musi uzyskać aprobatę Parlamentu przy wsparciu większości posłów plus jeden w głosowaniu tajnym.   
   
Jeżeli dany kandydat nie uzyska wymaganej większości, Rada Europejska musi przedstawić alternatywnego kandydata w ciągu miesiąca.   
   
Więcej na ten temat: https://elections.europa.eu/pl/commission-president/

Parlament Europejski ponownie wybrał von der Leyen na stanowisko Przewodniczącej Komisji.

Kim jest Roberta Metsola, Przewodnicząca Parlamentu Europejskiego, która została wybrana na drugą kadencję w lipcu 2024 r.? Jak została wybrana i jaka jest jej rola? 
 
Co dwa i pół roku Parlament Europejski wybiera osobę reprezentującą go w kontaktach z innymi instytucjami UE i resztą świata. Przewodniczący Parlamentu wybierany jest w głosowaniu tajnym, odbywającym się na pierwszej sesji plenarnej po wyborach.
 
Stanowisko zdobywa kandydat, który otrzyma absolutną większość oddanych głosów. 
 
Przewodniczący kieruje także działaniami Parlamentu, przewodniczy sesjom plenarnym i ogłasza ostateczne przyjęcie budżetu UE. Funkcje obejmują również przedstawianie stanowiska Parlamentu na początku każdego zgromadzenia Komisji Europejskiej. 
 
Więcej informacji znajdziesz na stronie: https://elections.europa.eu/pl/parliament-president/

Roberta Metsola: poznajcie Przewodniczącą Parlamentu Europejskiego

W 2015 r. kanclerz Niemiec Angela Merkel i prezydent Francji François Hollande nakłaniali kraje europejskie do wspólnego zobowiązania się do przyjęcia osób szukających azylu. UE zmagała się wtedy z bezprecedensową falą migracji, obejmującą setki tysięcy osób przedostających się na teren UE niestandardowymi drogami, przy czym wiele z nich uciekało przed wojną w Syrii. Większość kierowała się do Niemiec i kilku innych krajów. Podczas historycznego wspólnego przemówienia w Parlamencie Europejskim Merkel i Hollande wezwali do solidarnego działania i stawienia czoła głównym przyczynom kryzysu. * Zobacz całe przemówienie na kanale multimedialnym Parlamentu Europejskiego: http://epfacebook.eu/SpeechMerkelHollande

Przemówienia Merkel i Hollande’a na temat kryzysu migracyjnego | Parlament Europejski

A global pandemic, war in Ukraine and a cost-of-living crisis: the 2019-2024 European Parliament stepped up as people faced unprecedented challenges.

Parliament responded with measures that strengthened the EU and its economy while standing up for European values.

June’s European elections will decide how Parliament will deal with the challenges of the future.

Six big issues the European Parliament dealt with in the last five years - 9:16

Six big issues the European Parliament dealt with in the last five years

Five candidates for the European Commission presidency gathered in the European Parliament, in Brussels, to debate issues that affect everyone in the European Union, from jobs and migration to climate, innovation and security.

The Eurovision debate was organised by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) and moderated by Martin Řezníček (Czech TV) and Annelies Beck (VRT, Belgium).

The following candidates took part:

Walter Baier (Austria, European Left)
Sandro Gozi (Italy, Renew Europe Now)
Ursula von der Leyen (Germany, European People’s Party)
Terry Reintke (Germany, European Greens)
Nicolas Schmit (Luxembourg, Party of European Socialists)

The position of each candidate on the stage, the first speaker on each topic and the order of the ‘spotlight’ interviews were decided on 16 May by a draw organised by the EBU in the European Parliament.

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