At a glance: the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy pushes for more coordination and resilience in the European electricity grid; the Committee on Environment supports proposals to simplify the EU carbon leakage instrument; and President Metsola calls to re-launch Europe as a global power.

Scurt buletin de știri – 15/05/2025 - română

At a glance: combating child sexual abuse; the future of the 2008 Horizontal Anti-Discrimination Directive; and tariffs on agricultural goods from Russia and Belarus.

Scurt buletin de știri – 14/05/2025 - română

At a glance: the European Court of Auditors will present its report on labour market reforms in the EU’s national recovery plans; the Committee on Public Health will review the EU’s crisis response and hold key exchanges; and the Committee on Constitutional Affairs will vote on a new EU body for ethical standards.

Scurt buletin de știri – 13/05/2025 - română

At a glance: during the plenary session, the European Parliament marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe; MEPs adopt their recommendations for the European Water Resilience Strategy; Parliament encourages Kosovo and Serbia to advance their reforms towards EU membership.

Scurt buletin de știri – 12/05/2025 - română

Konrad Adenauer, primul cancelar al Republicii Federale Germania, a jucat un rol crucial în reconstrucția țării după cel de Al Doilea Război Mondial, precum și în promovarea unității europene. El a făcut din reconcilierea cu Franța o prioritate și a sprijinit integrarea europeană prin inițiative precum Comunitatea Europeană a Cărbunelui și Oțelului. În pofida unor obstacole, ca de pildă ridicarea Zidul Berlinului, Adenauer a rămas fidel ideii de pace și unitate în Europa.

Konrad Adenauer, un simbol al unității și păcii

At a glance: during this week’s plenary session, MEPs discussed how the EU can contribute to achieving a peace deal for Ukraine; Parliament adopted a resolution outlining its vision and demands for the EU’s next long-term budget; and EUR 8 million in EU aid is set to be disbursed for 2 400 dismissed workers in Belgium

Scurt buletin de știri – 08/05/2025 - română

At a glance: during the plenary session, MEPs debated the EU response to US tariffs; Parliament held a minute’s silence in memory of Pope Francis; the new European Order of Merit is introduced.

Scurt buletin de știri – 07/05/2025 - română

At a glance: during the plenary session, MEPs will debate how the EU can help to secure a just peace in Ukraine; they will also discuss the power outage in the Iberian Peninsula and commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe.

Scurt buletin de știri – 06/05/2025 - română

At a glance: during the plenary session, Parliament will debate the EU response to US tariffs; Türkiye’s bid to join the EU is under scrutiny in Parliament; MEPs will vote on a 9 million euro support package for 2 400 workers in Belgium.

Scurt buletin de știri – 05/05/2025 - română

At a glance: the film ‘Flow’ has been awarded the 2025 LUX Audience Award; Parliament will kick off Europe Day celebrations on Sunday; and a public hearing will be held on ‘the future of EU anti-avoidance tax rules’.

Scurt buletin de știri – 02/05/2025 - română

Filmul „Flow - O pisică fără frică” este câștigătorul Premiului LUX - Premiul european de film al publicului, ediția 2025. 
Premiul LUX aduce în prim-plan filme care tratează teme sociale și politice. El urmărește să încurajeze dezbaterea și reflecția și să construiască, și cu ajutorul filmelor, o identitate europeană mai puternică.

LUX - Premiul european de film al publicului, ediția 2025

At a glance: on Sunday, Parliament will kick off Europe Day celebrations; in mid-May, the Subcommittee on Tax Matters will host a public hearing on global tax challenges; and at the beginning of June, the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs will hold a public hearing entitled ‘Artificial Intelligence at the workplace’.

Scurt buletin de știri – 30/04/2025 - română

At a glance: Parliament’s political groups are preparing for the next plenary session, which will start next Monday in Strasbourg. International trade, the EU’s Banking Union and the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War are all on the plenary agenda.

Scurt buletin de știri – 29/04/2025 - română

At a glance: MEPs are in favour of a more ambitious European Defence Industry Programme; the EU's gas storage scheme will be extended until the end of 2027; and Vice-President of the European Central Bank Luis de Guindos presents the Bank’s 2024 Annual Report to the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs.

Scurt buletin de știri – 28/04/2025 - română

Acordul de la Paris este un tratat internațional obligatoriu din punct de vedere juridic adoptat în 2015 la cea de-a 21-a sesiune a Conferinței Națiunilor Unite privind schimbările climatice.
El urmărește în primul rând să limiteze încălzirea globală la un nivel mult sub 2 °C, în mod ideal la 1,5 °C, comparativ cu nivelurile preindustriale.
Acordul a fost semnat de aproape toate țările lumii, care s-au angajat împreună să reducă emisiile de gaze cu efect de seră. Uniunea Europeană a ratificat Acordul de la Paris în 2016 și l-a plasat în centrul politicii sale privind clima.

Să ne salvăm planeta: Acordul de la Paris

At a glance: The Committee on Budgets set out Parliament’s priorities for the next long-term EU budget; the Committee on Civil Liberties endorsed plans to gradually roll out the Entry/Exit System at the EU’s external borders; and the Commission’s assessment of EU countries’ measures under the marine strategy framework.

Scurt buletin de știri – 25/04/2025 - română

From the second we come into this world, we’re in it together. Each of us can leave a mark, but together we can make a real difference. Choose your future. European elections 23-26 May.

It is available in the following sign languages: Austrian, Bulgarian, Catalan, Croatian, Cypriot, Czech, Danish, Dutch, English, Estonian, Finland Swedish, Finnish, Flemish, French, German, Greek, Hungarian, Irish, Italian, Latvian, Lithuanian, Maltese, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Slovak, Slovenian, Spanish, Swedish, Russian and international sign language.

Choose your future - Sign language versions

MEPs voted in October 2018 on updated rules on audiovisual media services, protecting children better, with stricter rules on advertising, and 30% European content in video-on-demand.

The legislation does not include any automatic filtering of uploaded content, but, at the request of the Parliament, platforms need to create a transparent, easy-to-use and effective mechanism to allow users to report or flag content. The new law includes strict rules on advertising, product placement in children’s TV programmes and content available on video-on-demand platforms. EP negotiators also secured a personal data protection mechanism for children, imposing measures to ensure that data collected by audiovisual media providers are not processed for commercial use, including for profiling and behaviourally targeted advertising.

#EUelections2019 - Audiovisual media services in the EU

On 12 September 2018, the Commission came forward with a proposal for a new regulation on the European Border and Coast Guard as part of initiatives aiming to develop long-term migration policy. The proposal aims to reinforce the protection of the European Union external borders and to increase the efficiency of returning migrants in an irregular situation.

During the last Plenary session of its mandate the European Parliament approved the new law to strengthen the European Border and Coast Guard, to ensure better protection of EU external borders.

A new standing corps will be set up to support EU countries on the ground in border control and return tasks, as well as in the fight against cross-border crime. Starting with 5,000 operational staff in 2021, the standing corps will be fully operational by 2027 with 10,000 staff. In addition, a rapid reserve pool will be created for deployment in emergencies.

#EUelections2019 - European Border and Coast Guard

Following continued revelations in the last 5 years (Luxleaks, the Panama Papers, Football leaks and the Paradise Papers), the European Parliament decided to establish a Special Committee on Financial Crimes, Tax Evasion and Tax Avoidance (TAX3), on 1 March 2018.

The work of the TAX3 Committee built on the work of its predecessors (the TAXE, TAX2 and PANA Committees) and investigated new issues, such as digital taxation, national citizenship programs and VAT fraud.
In the course of its mandate, the TAX3 Committee met 34 times and organized 4 fact-finding missions to Washington, Latvia, the Isle of Man, Estonia and Denmark. Hundreds of experts were heard, including Commissioners, Ministers, prosecutors, investigative journalists, anti-money laundering and tax experts, accountants, bankers and NGO representatives before submitting a final report with its recommendations, including a detailed roadmap towards fairer and more effective taxation, and tackling financial crimes.

#EUelections2019 - Special Committees TAX3 and PANA

On 28 March, Parliament approved the next Erasmus+ programme for 2021-2027.

Erasmus+ is an EU programme supporting opportunities for education, training, young people and sport in Europe. It started as a student exchange programme in 1987, but since 2014 it also offers opportunities for teachers, trainees and volunteers of all ages. More than nine million people have taken part in the Erasmus+ programme over the last 30 years and nearly 800,000 people benefited from the programme in 2017 alone. The programme currently covers 33 countries (all 28 EU countries as well as Turkey, North Macedonia, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein) and is open to partner countries across the world.

#EUelections2019 - Erasmus +

Established for a period of at least five years, a multiannual financial framework or MFF must ensure that the Union’s expenditure develops in an orderly manner and within the limits of its own resources, and sets out provisions with which the annual budget of the Union must comply, thus laying down the cornerstone of financial discipline.

Both the Parliament and Commission signalled that they were ready to make an effort to reach agreement on the package before the May 2019 European elections. Meeting this deadline would have enabled the new programmes to start without delay on 1 January 2021. However, on 13-14 December 2018, having conducted the first substantial exchange of views on the matter, the EU leaders called on the Romanian presidency to continue work at the level of the Council with a view to achieving an agreement only in autumn 2019.

#EUelections2019 - EU’s long-term budget (MFF)

EU countries are required to drastically reduce the use of the most common and polluting plastic bags under new rules voted by Parliament on 28 April 2015.

In 2010 EU citizens used an estimated 198 plastic carrier bags, some 90% of which were lightweight. Binding reduction targets were put in place. EU member states will be able to choose: either to take measures to reduce annual average consumption of plastic bags to 90 lightweight bags per citizen by the end of 2019 or 40 by the end of 2025. Since the end of 2018, no more light plastic bags are given to shoppers free of charge.

#EUelections2019 - Plastics bags

MEPs fought for stronger protection for whistleblowers because in general in Europe there was weak protection. In many countries, whistleblower protection rules tended to be limited in scope.

#EUelections2019  - Whistleblowers

In April 2018, the European Commission adopted a proposal on unfair trading practices in business-to-business relationships in the food supply chain.

It stems from the consensus that unfair trading practices occur in the food supply chain, with smaller operators more vulnerable to these practices due to a weaker bargaining power compared to larger operators. The proposal focuses therefore on smaller actors in the food supply chain and aims to protect them from trading practices that are imposed unilaterally. The protection covers small and medium-sized agricultural producers and other SME suppliers in the chain and imposed rules constraining the behaviour of buyers which are not SMEs.

#EUelections2019 - Helping farmers, ending unfair trading practices

By making energy more efficient, Europeans will see their energy bills reduced. In addition, Europe will diminish its reliance on external suppliers of oil and gas, improve local air quality and protect the climate.

By 2030, energy efficiency in the EU must have improved by 32.5%, whereas the share of energy from renewables should make up at least 32% of the EU’s gross final consumption. Both targets are to be reviewed by 2023. These targets can only be raised, not lowered. Lower energy bills and the right to become a renewable self-consumer will be the result.

#EUelections2019 - Clean energy and energy efficiency

The drinking water directive achieved the update of a list of parameters to monitor drinking water, in line with technical and scientific progress. The vote on this report, adopted on 28 March 2019, closes Parliament’s first reading, which reached its position in October 2018.
Two other aspects include the importance of transparency for citizens and consumers as regards water quality, and the improvement of accessibility to drinking water for everyone.

#EUelections2019 - Drinking water quality

Plans to boost trust in the EU approval procedure of pesticides, by making it more transparent and accountable, were put forward by Parliament on 16 January 2019.

The European Parliament, on 6 February 2018, set up a special committee on the European Union’s authorization procedure for pesticides (PEST). MEPs want the public to be granted access to the studies used in the procedure to authorize a pesticide, including all the supporting data and information relating to the applications.&nbsp; Parliament is of the opinion that vulnerable groups should be more protected.

#EUelections2019 - Use of pesticides in the EU

Internet use and the number of connected devices continue to increase, but so do cyber threats. Parliament has approved new legislation to improve your security.

Activities by cybercriminals are increasing in complexity and sophistication. On Tuesday 12 March 2019, MEPs voted in favour of the cybersecurity act which aims to improve the European response to the increasing number of cyber threats by strengthening the role of the European Agency for Network and Information Security (Enisa) and establishing a common cybersecurity certification framework.

#EUelections2019 - Network and information security / cybersecurity

Trade relations between the EU and US have been rocky since Donald Trump was elected on a platform of protectionism and nationalism. Negotiations on a Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) were stopped until further notice at the end of 2016.

When Trump imposed additional import duties on steel and aluminum imports, MEPs called the move unacceptable and incompatible with WTO rules. Tensions escalated last year when Trump threatened to slap additional tariffs on European cars in the name of national security. Jean-Claude Juncker, President of the European Commission, met Trump to discuss the threat and the two agreed to relaunch trade talks with a limited scope. The EU Council of Ministers adopted draft negotiating mandates in April 2019. Any deal resulting from these talks has to be approved by the European Parliament before it can enter into force.

#EUelections2019 - TTIP

The European treaties have given Parliament a broad range of powers as the EU’s directly-elected body. Together with the representatives of EU governments in the Council, Parliament is responsible for adopting EU legislation. Under the ordinary legislative procedure, both institutions act as equal co-legislators. Parliament and Council have to agree on the annual EU budget.
Equally, the MEPs oversee the work of EU institutions, notably the European Commission, which is the executive arm of the European Union. The European Parliament also cooperates with national parliaments on European affairs.

Take a look at our new videos to find out more!

#EUelections2019 - How does the EP work?

MEPs have approved WIFI4EU, a scheme to promote free wi-fi connectivity in public spaces across the EU.

The objective of the WIFI4EU European initiative is to provide more than 6,000 communities across the EU with free high-speed wi-fi connection by 2020. Access to this initiative is reserved for public entities with spaces open to the public such as libraries, hospitals, parks, train stations and bus terminals. They would receive a grant from the EU to set up free wi-fi connection points.

The initiative boasts a budget of €120 million, which will be allocated to local communities across Europe on a first come, first served basis.

#EUelections2019 - WiFi4EU

IDAHOBIT-projection of flag

Roberta METSOLA, EP President  participates in the European Political Community Summit in Tirana

Roberta METSOLA, EP President participates in the European Political Community Summit in Tirana

EP President Roberta METSOLA delivers a Keynote Speech at the event "Europe at the Crossroads" - past and present, organized by the German public broadcasters ARD/ZDF, at the Representation of the State of Baden-Württemberg to the European Union in Brussels (Belgium).

Keynote speech by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, at the ARD/ZDF Event

Roberta METSOLA, EP President participates in the Conference of Speakers of European Union Parliaments in Budapest and gives a keynote speech

Roberta METSOLA, EP President participates in the Conference of Speakers of European Union Parliaments in Budapest

10:05 President Metsola gives Press Statement with the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides
10:10 President Metsola meets with the President of the Republic of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides
11:00 President Metsola participates in ‘Your Europe, Your Future: A dialogue with youth’ together with the President of the Republic of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides on the occasion of Europe Day

Roberta METSOLA, EP President: Official visit to Nicosia (Cyprus)

The open day in Brussels takes place on Saturday 10 May from 10:00 until 18:00 (last entrance is at 17:30). Visitors can see the plenary chamber, participate in talks about the work of the Parliament, check out information stands and take part in a variety of other activities.

On 9 May, Europeans celebrate Europe Day as 2025 marks the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration.

The Schuman Declaration laid the foundations for the European Union and paved the way for an unprecedented era of prosperity, peace, democracy, solidarity and cooperation in Europe.

EU Open day in Brussels

Roberta METSOLA, EP President participates in Europe Day celebrations in Luxembourg

12:00 President Metsola receives the Chancellor of Germany, Friedrich Merz

Roberta METSOLA, EP President receives the Chancellor of Germany, Friedrich Merz

A ceremony in plenary to commemorate the end of World War II in Europe take place on Wednesday at 11:30. 

Four war veterans, from Belgium, France and Poland, address Parliament. European Parliament’s President Roberta Metsola will open the ceremony. A musical interpretation of the European anthem will close the event.  In a separate debate on Thursday morning, MEPs discuss the legacy of the end of World War II: 80 years of freedom, democracy and security in Europe.

Commemoration of the 80 anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe

MEPs discuss with the Council and the Commission how the EU can contribute to achieving a just, sustainable and comprehensive peace deal for Ukraine.

The debate focuses on the EU’s political, financial and military support for Ukraine, and its role in efforts to secure a peace settlement that preserves Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and is based on international law. MEPs aunderline the importance of long-term commitment to Ukraine and the need for international coordination in building a lasting peace.

EU support for peace in Ukraine

Parliament debate  its recommendations ahead of the European Commission’s water resilience strategy.

MEPs discuss and vote on a draft report, prepared by the Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety, detailing how the EU should manage its water resources more efficiently and respond better to current challenges. The resulting resolution will serve as Parliament input to the European water resilience strategy soon to be put forward by the Commission.

The text calls for the introduction of sectoral targets for water efficiency and water abstraction (taking water from a surface or underground source), and highlights the need for adequate funding, better use of digital tools and artificial intelligence solutions. MEPs may also call on the EU to do more to reduce water pollution from pharmaceuticals, chemical pesticides and fertilisers, antibiotic-resistant bacteria, microplastics and chemicals, and to phase out “forever chemicals” (PFAS).

European Water Resilience Strategy

MEPs debate on Tuesday and vote on Wednesday on Parliament's vision for the next multiannual financial framework (MFF).
The parliamentarians call for a significantly more ambitious long-term EU budget to match EU citizens' expectations in an increasingly complex global landscape. They argue that the current budget ceiling of 1% of the EU-27’s gross national income is insufficient to respond effectively to the growing range of crises and challenges.

The text prepared by the Budgets Committee highlights that the United States’ retreat from its global role means EU spending will now have to address Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, in addition to a highly challenging economic and social backdrop, a competitiveness gap, and the worsening climate and biodiversity crisis. Parliament’s priorities for the next long-term EU budget are designed to feed into the Commission’s proposal on the next MFF, due to be unveiled in July. The co-rapporteurs give a press conference on Wednesday at 14.00, following the vote in plenary.

Revamped long-term budget for the Union

Parliament debate and vote on a targeted change to CO2 emission performance standards for new cars and vans.

Plenary decides on Tuesday whether to apply its “urgent procedure” to proposed draft legislation that would allow car manufacturers comply with emissions obligations for the years 2025, 2026 and 2027 by averaging their performance over the whole three-year period, rather than being assessed on each year’s emissions individually. Ahead of the vote, political groups’ representatives will hold one round of short interventions.

If approved, MEPs are expected to vote on the substance of the proposal on Thursday. The aim of the proposed change is intended to provide support for Europe’s automotive sector, which is experiencing rapid technological changes and increasing competition.

The proposal is part of the Commission's industrial action plan for the European automotive sector, announced on 5 March 2025. It followed the strategic dialogue on the future of the automotive industry launched by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on 30 January 2025, which involved an open public consultation and discussions with the industry and other stakeholders to address the most pressing challenges facing the sector.

CO2 emission performance standards

MEPs discuss with the Commission and the Council a unified EU response to US trade measures, and global trade opportunities for the EU.

The debate in Parliament follows the global reaction to the US government’s decision to increase existing tariffs and impose new ones – and its subsequent postponement of their imposition.

MEPs consider the countermeasures adopted by the EU – which were later suspended as well. Plenary will also review EU trade opportunities elsewhere in the world. The EU has concluded deals with a number of countries and regional groupings, and talks are ongoing on several more potential trade deals.

Unified response to US trade measures

MEPs, together with Commission and Council representatives, debate the preparations for the first EU-UK summit on British soil since Brexit.

EU and UK leaders will meet in London on 19 May for the first institutional bilateral gathering in Britain since the UK left the EU in 2020. Among other topics, they will discuss defence cooperation, opportunities for young people, and trade issues – the latter in the wake of the new US tariffs imposed by the Trump administration on trade partners. 

In particular, this includes a potential EU-UK security pact that could see the UK participate in the EU’s joint arms procurement scheme. Leaders will review the possibility of a youth mobility scheme to facilitate freedom of movement for young people aged 18-30, as well as efforts to eliminate sanitary and phytosanitary checks (SPS) on certain products that are exported from the UK to the EU, in particular those entering Northern Ireland from Great Britain.

Preparation of EU-UK summit

Parliament holds a press briefing on May plenary session

Last minute briefing on May Plenary session

On Sunday 4 May, the European Parliament kicks off the celebration of Europe Day (9 May) in Strasbourg, with citizens invited to a series of events to celebrate European democracy. Events also take place in Luxembourg and Brussels on 9 and 10 May.

Europe Day 2025 (Strasbourg)

The EP’s Press Service holds a press briefing with Parliament’s political group spokespersons 

Plenary preparations. The political groups are preparing for the 5-8 May plenary session, where MEPs will debate how the EU should respond to US trade measures, and assess global trade opportunities for the EU. They will also debate and vote on their priorities for the upcoming proposal on the EU’s long-term budget, outline their priorities for the EU-UK summit, and debate and vote on the EU water resilience strategy. The draft plenary agenda also includes a debate on the Commission’s latest reports on Türkiye, and debates and votes on the 2023 budget discharge for the EU institutions and agencies, and on progress on establishing the EU banking union. Parliament will commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe

Pre-session briefing

HOUS - Meeting on Affordable Housing Regional and Local authorities perspectives

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?

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

Over the past two days, thousands of young people have come together to celebrate the power of democracy through debates, exchanges, and artistic expression. As this incredible experience comes to an end, it’s hard to say goodbye. But this is not the end—it’s just the beginning. The conversations sparked here will continue, the ideas shared will take shape, and the connections made will contribute to the future of Europe. Join us for an inspiring closing session to reflect on our journey, explore what’s next, and work together to put democracy in action. The future is in our hands—let’s make it happen!

EYE2025 closing plenary: democracy in action

In 2025, the European Commission will propose a new Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) to set spending limits for EU policy areas over several years. Members will examine how the EU's long-term budget can best meet citizens' needs and address key challenges. In what ways does the EU budget affect our daily lives? How should the EU budget be structured to effectively navigate current priorities and prepare for future challenges? How do we ensure the European Union remains competitive and innovative on the global stage? In what ways can the MFF contribute to achieving economic and social cohesion among EU Member States? How can the EU budget support a sustainable, climate-neutral and resilient future? And how can we ensure young people’s needs are reflected in our spending priorities?

EYE2025 - Investing in Europe’s future? The next Multiannual Financial Framework

Among the EU measures to combat youth unemployment is the Youth Guarantee, a commitment by EU Member States to ensure all young people under the age of 30 receive a good-quality offer of employment, continued education, an apprenticeship or a traineeship within four months of unemployment or leaving formal education. In the last two decades however, the unemployment rate of young Europeans has consistently been around twice as high as the general unemployment rate. Young people today are facing an increasingly insecure job market. How can we do better? What steps can be taken to improve employment quality and increase job stability for young people? How do the Traineeship Directive, the Youth Guarantee and other initiatives aim to tackle these issues? How can we support diversity, inclusiveness and accessibility in the youth labour market?

EYE2025 - Unlocking opportunities: pathways to fair employment

The EU charter of fundamental rights guarantees EU citizens’ rights. Yet human rights in Europe face critical challenges when it comes to individual liberties and corruption as well as in terms of freedom of speech and media freedom. Journalists increasingly face intimidation and disinformation. Policies such as the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA) aim to protect media, although there is still much work to be done to tackle ownership transparency, media pluralism and journalist safety. How can the EU strengthen democratic principles in the face of emerging challenges? In what ways can the EU effectively support and safeguard media pluralism within its member states? What role should the EU play in combating disinformation? How can Europe balance free speech while regulating harmful content?

EYE2025 - Defending democracy and human rights: safeguarding freedom of speech and media

Europe is experiencing a youth mental health crisis with half of all young Europeans now reporting poor mental health. The COVID-19 pandemic already placed significant pressure on young people’s mental health and the situation has intensified due to the crises encountered in recent years, including economic instability and geopolitical conflicts like the war in Ukraine. Meanwhile, social media is allowing youth to maintain friendships or engage with issues they care about, but also exposing them to bullying, threats and graphic reports of global problems. How can the EU address such issues? What are key factors impacting youth mental health? And how can we address inequality in mental health access? What is the connection between social media and mental health, and which tools can be used to improve the current situation?

EYE2025 - From stigma to support: youth mental health in Europe

New and changing environments present new challenges, which affect many areas of our everyday lives. To tackle these challenges and adapt to our surroundings, we need relevant skills. But which skills will be needed in the future? Which skills and competencies are essential to prepare us for the digital and green transitions? In a world that is becoming increasingly dependent on automation and AI, how can we foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills? How can we help young people acquire the right qualifications for high-quality jobs? How do we ensure fair, equitable, and inclusive access to new skill development? And how can existing European initiatives and policies promote relevant skills development for young people?

EYE2025 - Skills of tomorrow: Are we prepared for future challenges?

The European Parliament is the house of democracy, the only directly elected body of the European Union, representing 450 million citizens. The decisions it makes impact all of our lives and futures. Now, you have the chance to hear directly from the European Parliament President, Roberta Metsola, about the future of Europe and how the Parliament is working to shape it. Join us in the iconic Hemicycle for an opportunity to learn about the challenges, goals, and decisions driving Europe forward.

EYE2025 - Meet the President of the European Parliament: Q&A with Roberta Metsola

Ten years ago, 196 countries agreed on a collective effort to keep global warming below 2 degrees Celsius and tackle the effects of climate change in the historic Paris Agreement. With the launch of the European Green Deal in 2019, the EU aims to become the first climate neutral economy globally by 2050. However, Europe remains the fastest-warming continent, and is, according to the European Environment Agency’s 2024 assessment, not prepared for the rapidly growing climate risks it faces. What is the future of the European Green Deal after the 2024 European elections? How can the EU balance economic growth with the urgent need for climate action? How do we protect vulnerable groups, such as indigenous people from paying a disproportionately high price for the climate crisis? How can we ensure that the green transition is fair and inclusive? What is the EU doing to prevent greenwashing and false green claims?

EYE2025 - Towards climate justice? Evaluating the EU's green transition

Article 17 TFEU Dialogue seminar

Committee on Legal Affairs Ordinary meeting JURI Interparliamentary Committee Meeting

JURI

Delegation for Relations with the Countries of the Andean Community Ordinary Meeting – Preparatory Meeting for the Inter-Parliamentary Meeting (IPM) EU–Peru on 26 June 2025

DAND

Delegation for Relations with the United States Ordinary Meeting – D-US and D-UK Joint Ordinary Meeting

Plenary session

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

AFCO Committee meeting - Exchange of views in the frame of the Structured Dialogue with Mr. Maroš Šefčovič, the European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security; Interinstitutional Relations and Transparency

BUDG Committee meeting - Value Added Tax fraud on imports

TRAN SEDE - Public Hearing on Military mobility

Delegation to the Africa-EU Parliamentary Assembly extraordinary meeting - Exchange of views on the sustainable management of Raw Materials in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

Delegation for relations with Canada meeting - Exchange of views with Professors S. Jaumain, Université Libre de Bruxelles, on the outcome of the federal elections in Canada and its possible impact on EU Canada relations

podcast recording with MEP Jan FARSKY

AGRI - Exchange of views with the European Food Safety Authority on insights on key topics impacting EU agriculture

YOCOJOIN visit to the European Parliament

EU-Iraq Interparliamentary meeting

DROI DEVE public hearing on “advancing International, Humanitarian Law and International Human Rights Law in Conflict Zones and Fragile Contexts to Protect then Most Vulnerable”

Study visit for Members of North Macedonia on the EU Accession Process

BUDG - Partial renewal of Members of the Court of Auditors - Hearing of Ivana Maletic, candidate nominated by Croatia

SEDE Commitee meeting - Briefing ahead of the SEDE mission to Norway

Keynote speech by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, at the ARD/ZDF Event Europe at the Crossroads

JURI - Policy Department presentation of the study on Reporting obligations - Public hearing on reporting obligations

Press seminar for French journalists

This infoclip illustrates research, innovation and science in the EU. The European Commission is investing over €7.3 billion through its newly adopted Horizon Europe work programme for 2025 to strengthen Europe's research and innovation engine and global edge. This will drive cutting-edge science, accelerate the EU's green and digital transitions, and enhance Europe's competitiveness. The programme will help attract and retain top researchers in Europe and offer targeted support to those affected by war and displacement

Infoclip: Research, innovation and science in the EU

The EU long-term budget drives investment in Europe’s future, improving citizens’ lives. It funds common projects and delivers on priorities from economic competitiveness to agriculture.
Learn more: https://eubudget.europarl.europa.eu/

EU long term budget – explainer video (16:9)

EU long term budget – explainer video (9:16)

Roberta METSOLA, EP President, gives a keynote speech at the "Europe at the Crossroads – past and present" event at the Representation of the State of Baden-Württemberg to the European Union. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Keynote speech by Roberta METSOLA, EP President at the "Europe at the Crossroads – past and present" event at the Representation of the State of Baden-Württemberg to the European Union

Roberta METSOLA, EP President, intervenes as keynote speaker in the session "The future European Union: General perspectives, Federalism or national sovereignty" during the Conference of Speakers of the EU Parliaments in the Hungarian House of Parliament in Budapest. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

The future European Union: General perspectives, Federalism or national sovereignty: address by Roberta METSOLA, EP President

Roberta METSOLA, EP President, participates in the Conference of Speakers of the European Union in the Hungarian National Assembly in Budapest. The Conference of Speakers of the EU Parliaments (hereinafter referred to as the Conference of Speakers) is the highest forum for interparliamentary cooperation in the European Union, with the main task of defining the framework and strategic objectives of parliamentary cooperation. EP President takes the floor in the session on the future of the European Union as keynote speaker.

Participation of Roberta METSOLA, EP President in the Conference of Speakers of the European Union in Budapest (Hungary): extracts

Roberta METSOLA, EP President and Nikos CHRISTODOULIDES, President of Cyprus, participate in ‘Your Europe, Your Future: A dialogue with youth’ in Nicosia, with Marilena RAOUNA, Cypriot Deputy Minister for European Affairs

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President to Nicosia (Cyprus) - Participation in ‘Your Europe, Your Future: A dialogue with youth’ together with Nikos CHRISTODOULIDES, President of Cyprus, and Marilena RAOUNA, Cypriot Deputy Minister for Europe

Roberta METSOLA, EP President meets with Nikos CHRISTODOULIDES, President of Cyprus on the occasion of her official visit to Nicosia (Cyprus). Arrival, meeting and extract from the press statement.

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President to Nicosia (Cyprus) - Meeting with Nikos CHRISTODOULIDES, President of Cyprus: arrival, meeting and extract from the press statement

Roberta METSOLA, EP President meets with Annita DEMETRIOU, President of the House of Representatives of Cyprus: arrival, meeting, extracts from the press statement

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President to Nicosia (Cyprus) - Meeting with Annita DEMETRIOU, President of the House of Representatives of Cyprus arrival meeting extracts from the press statement

Roberta METSOLA, EP President participates to the event in ‘Your Europe, Your Future: A dialogue with youth’ together with Nikos CHRISTODOULIDES, President of Cyprus, on the occasion of her official visit to Nicosia (Cyprus). Arrival and extract from the event

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President to Nicosia (Cyprus) - Participation in ‘Your Europe, Your Future: A dialogue with youth’ together with Nikos CHRISTODOULIDES, President of Cyprus: arrival and extract from the event

The open day in Brussels takes place on Saturday 10 May. Visitors can see the plenary chamber, participate in talks about the work of the Parliament, check out information stands and take part in a variety of other activities. On 9 May, Europeans celebrate Europe Day as 2025 marks the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration. The Schuman Declaration laid the foundations for the European Union and paved the way for an unprecedented era of prosperity, peace, democracy, solidarity and cooperation in Europe.

Europe Day 2025 at the European Parliament in Brussels: extracts from the open day

Luc FRIEDEN, Luxembourgish Prime Minister, Roberta METSOLA, EP President, António COSTA, President of the European Council and Ursula von der LEYEN, President of the European Commission, make a statement to the press to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Schuman declaration, in front of his birthplace house in Luxembourg. On May 9, 1950, Robert Schuman put forward a proposal to establish the European Coal and Steel Community, a move that became the cornerstone of modern European integration.

Press statement with Luc FRIEDEN, Luxembourgish Prime Minister, Roberta METSOLA, EP President, António COSTA, President of the European Council and Ursula von der LEYEN, President of the European Commission

On the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, Luxembourg’s Prime Minister Luc Frieden, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola, European Council President António Costa, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen gathered at Robert Schuman’s birthplace. The program featured a tour of the Schuman House, signing of the guestbook, the unveiling of a commemorative stamp and an official photo. They conclude the day with a visit to the former ECSC headquarters. On May 9, 1950, Robert Schuman unveiled an initiative to establish the European Coal and Steel Community. This step marked the beginning of the European integration.

Europe day - 75th Anniversary of the Schuman Declaration with Luc FRIEDEN, Roberta METSOLA, António COSTA, and Ursula von der LEYEN: extracts from the visit to the birthplace house of Robert Schuman and a a visit to the former ECSC headquarters

Roberta Metsola, EP President welcomes Friedrich Merz, German Chancellor, on Europe Day, in the European Parliament in Brussels. After a bilateral meeting, EP President and German Chancellor give a press point. Extracts from the arrival, the welcome, the signature of the guests book and the joint press point. Friedrich Merz was elected Chancellor on Tuesday 6 May, following the legislative elections held on 23 February.

Roberta METSOLA, EP President meets with Frederich MERZ, German Federal Chancellor: arrival, welcome and extracts from the press point

Roberta Metsola, EP President welcomes Friedrich Merz, German Chancellor, on Europe Day, in the European Parliament in Brussels. After a bilateral meeting, EP President and German Chancellor give a press point. They talk about challenges faced by Europe such as competitiveness, migration and the unwavering support to Ukraine. Friedrich Merz was elected Chancellor on Tuesday 6 May, following the legislative elections held on 23 February.

Press point by Roberta METSOLA, EP President and Frederich MERZ, German Federal Chancellor

Europe Day 2025

MEPs vote on the following files: Arrest and risk of execution of Tundu Lissu, Chair of Chadema, the main opposition party in Tanzania, Return of Ukrainian children forcibly transferred and deported by Russia, Violations of religious freedom in Tibet, Ninth report on economic and social cohesion, CO2 emission performance standards, The protection status of the wolf (Canis lupus), The role of gas storage for securing gas supplies ahead of the winter season, The screening of foreign investments in the Union and repealing Regulation (EU) 2019/452 of the European Parliament and of the Council, Suspending certain parts of Regulation (EU) 2015/478 as regards imports of Ukrainian products into the European Union, Competition policy – annual report 2024, Banking Union – annual report 2024, Objection (ENVI) Genetically modified soybean, Old challenges and new commercial practices in the internal market.

Voting session

The International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) takes place every 17th May. IDAHOBIT commemorates the decision taken in 1990 by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to remove homosexuality from its International Classification of Diseases. This infoclip illustrates the importance to still fight for the rights of the LGBTQIA+ people across Europe and around the world. It stages different same-sex couples in their daily-life routines, a protest to defend the LGBTQIA+ community in Hungary and a famous queer bar in Ireland.

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