At a glance: the plenary session is ongoing in Brussels. MEPs have voted on revising the pharmaceutical legislation and adopted their position on new rules to improve the health of European soils and to increase CO2 emission reduction targets for trucks, buses and trailers.

News in Brief – 11/04/2024 - English

At a glance: in Brussels, the plenary session is ongoing; MEPs will vote on the reform of the EU electricity market; the agreement on the extension of temporary trade measures for Ukraine; and approximately EUR 5 million in EU aid for displaced workers in Germany and Denmark.

News in Brief – 10/04/2024 - English

It’s time to vote! Between 6 and 9 June this year, millions of EU citizens will help shape the future of the European Union by voting in the European elections. The European Parliament is the only directly elected EU body and the European elections are one of the biggest democratic events in the world. Join us in this episode as we take a closer look at how the voting system works. Don’t miss this chance to find out how your vote counts!

The European elections explained: how does the voting system work?

At a glance: the plenary session starts tomorrow in Brussels. MEPs will vote on the reform of the EU’s asylum and migration rules, a revision of the ‘breakfast directives’ and new rules on the collection, treatment and discharge of urban waste water.

News in Brief – 09/04/2024 - English

At a glance: the Committee on Development will take stock of the progress made on the UN Sustainable Development Goals; the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy will look at the main achievements during this legislative term; and the signing of the European Declaration on Cycling.

News in Brief – 08/04/2024 - English

At a glance: the political groups are preparing for the next plenary session, which will take place in Brussels on 10 and 11 April; proposed mandatory training for MEPs to prevent conflict and harassment in the European Parliament; and just 60 days to go until the European elections.

News in Brief – 05/04/2024 - English

At a glance: the political groups are preparing for the next plenary session, which will take place in Brussels on 10 and 11 April, and the Committee on Development is set to take stock of the progress made on the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

News in Brief – 04/04/2024 - English

At a glance: the meeting between European Commission Executive Vice-President Margrethe Vestager and the Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection; the Committee on Constitutional Affairs is  proposing amendments to Parliament’s internal rules to strengthen its way of working; and EP President Metsola’s visit to Cyprus.

News in Brief – 03/04/2024 - English

At a glance: a plan has been developed to improve trainees’ working conditions, the European Chief Prosecutor will attend the next meetings of the committees on Budgetary Control and Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs, and the European elections are just 65 days away.

News in Brief – 02/04/2024 - English

At a glance: just 70 days to the European Elections; the presentation of a European Commission action plan to tackle labour and skills shortages; and the 2024 Charlemagne Youth Prize.

News in Brief – 27/03/2024 - English

The transatlantic slave trade represents a dark and painful chapter in human history, spanning over 400 years and affecting more than 15 million people. Despite the abolition of slavery, racist ideologies persist and continue to shape discriminatory attitudes and behaviours today. Initiatives such as the UN International Day of Remembrance of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade and the EU’s Anti-Racism and Diversity Week aim to raise awareness, promote equality and create a more inclusive society.

Remembering the victims of slavery and the transatlantic slave trade

At a glance: MEPs discussed the follow-up to the Conference on the Future of Europe; new rules on bank failures and a workshop on the EU as a Union of Equality.

News in Brief – 26/03/2024 - English

At a glance: European Parliament President Roberta Mestola addressed the Heads of State and Government before the European Council meeting; the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade; and the upcoming ceremony for the 2024 LUX Audience Award.

News in Brief – 25/03/2024 - English

At a glance: first green light for new EU rules on the employment status of platform workers; an exchange of views with European Commissioner Thierry Breton on the European Defence Industrial Strategy; and support for displaced German and Danish workers.

News in Brief – 22/03/2024 - English

Europe is one of the most forest-rich regions in the world: around 40% of its land area is covered by this ecosystem. Forests are essential for our health and wellbeing, and the health of the planet. They are rich in biodiversity and are hugely important in the fight against climate change. The EU is aware of the role forests can play in our future. That is why - in 2021 - the new Forest Strategy for 2030 was adopted.

The EU forest strategy for 2030

At a glance: extension of trade liberalisation measures for Ukraine, initial green light for new bill on firms’ impact on human rights and the environment, and MEP support for comprehensive reform of EU pharmaceutical policy.

News in Brief – 21/03/2024 - English

With a landmass that stretches from the North Sea and the Baltic Sea in the north to the Alps in the south, Germany has the largest population of any EU country.

Germany borders Denmark to the north, Poland and the Czech Republic to the east, Austria and Switzerland to the south, France and Luxembourg to the southwest, and Belgium and the Netherlands to the northwest. There are 96 members of the European Parliament from Germany.

EU - Germany

The&nbsp; European Academy of Yuste Foundation set up the Carlos V European Award in order to reward the work of people, organisations, projects, or initiatives which through their efforts and dedication have contributed to the general knowledge and enhancement of Europe'ss cultural, social, scientific, and historical values, as well as to the process of European construction and integration

 
In order to highlight the work of these leaders, the Carlos V European Award is presented by a jury made up of distinguished figures. The presentation of the award takes place at a ceremony at the Royal Monastery of Yuste, presided over by the Spanish Royal Family. The Carlos V European Award represents the spirit of the construction of a united Europe

Carlos V European Award

The EU's China policy is defined by the 'Elements for a new EU Strategy on China' which, together with the 'Council Conclusions EU Strategy on China', form the EU Strategy on China.

The Strategy reflects the fundamental premises of the EU's engagement: the promotion of democracy, the rule of law, human rights, and respect for the UN Charter's principles and international law, with the search for reciprocal benefits in political and economic relations.

EU - China - 8th Parliamentary term

Through diplomatic action and concrete support, the EU is assisting Libya’s political transition towards a stable, functioning country and is supporting the UN led mediation efforts in this regard.

The EU underlines the importance of inclusiveness of the political process and Libyan ownership, notably through the participation of all legitimate Libyan stakeholders.

The EU provides assistance to Libya through a specific set of measures tailored to the needs of the Libyan people in particular, with regards to restoring effective governance and improving socio-economic 
conditions. Through partners on the ground, such as the International Organisation on Migration (IOM) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the EU is stepping up its humanitarian 
assistance to respond to migration challenges in Libya. The EU is also supporting Libyan authorities through its Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) missions and operations, EUNAVFOR MED Operation Sophia and EUBAM Libya.

EU - Libya - 8th parliamentary term

Greece’s economy returned to growth in 2017, expanding by 1.4%, driven by a surge in investment and accumulation in inventories, on the back of improving economic sentiment.

According to the Spring 2018 Commission (COM) forecast, real GDP growth is to accelerate to 1.8% in 2018 and 2.3% in 2019.

The Eurogroup of 22 June 2018 stated that the Greek authorities have completed all the agreed prior actions of the final review of the ESM (European Semester Spring) programme.

The Eurogroup has agreed on a debt relief package to safeguard Greece’s debt sustainability, expressed in terms of Gross Financing Needs.

Economic situation in Greece

Charles MICHEL, Belgian Prime Minister, is the fifth EU leader to debate the future of Europe with MEPs and Jean-Claude Juncker, President of the EC, on 3rd May 2019.

The Europeans want the EU to change. This is why the European Parliament is taking the leadership over a reform of the EU.

Parliament set out its vision for the future of Europe in three resolutions voted in plenary session on 16 February 2017. MEPs suggested, among other things:

<ul>
	<li>turning the Council of Ministers into a genuine second legislative chamber, and its configurations into preparatory bodies similar to Parliament’s committees,</li>
	<li>appointing an EU finance minister and giving the EU Commission the power to formulate and give effect to a common EU economic policy, backed up by a euro-area budget, and</li>
	<li>creating a fiscal capacity consisting of the European Stability Mechanism (ESM) and specific additional budgetary capacity for the euro area, funded by its members as a part of the EU budget.</li>
</ul>

Debate on the Future of Europe with Charles MICHEL, Belgian Prime Minister

The setting-up of a European Solidarity Corps has been agreed by European Parliament and European Council negotiators in June 2018.

It aims to be the EU's main entry-point for young people wanting to volunteer or work on projects to benefit communities and people across Europe.

The purpose is to give young people the opportunity to acquire valuable competences for personal, social, civic and professional development, including learning and training, while helping other people.

Projects include education, health, environment protection, work with children and elderly people as well as with migrants and asylum seekers with priority given to charitable work.

European Solidarity Corps - 8th parliamentary term

Over the years, the EU has forged constructive political dialogue with with members of the Cooperation Council for Arab States of the Gulf (GCC) including Saudi Arabia.

The Cooperation Agreement, which was concluded in 1988, forms the basis for the relationship that aims at: strengthening the stability in the strategically important region, facilitating the political and economic relations, broadening economic and technical cooperation and further broadening cooperation on energy, industry, trade and services, agriculture, fisheries, investment, science, technology and environment.

EU - Saudi Arabia

Under Article 2 TEU, the EU is founded on the shared values of democracy, the rule of law and respect for fundamental rights.

Article 7 TEU establishes two mechanisms (preventive and sanctioning mechanisms) to enforce European Union values in cases of systemic violations and to sanction Member States departing from them. The sanctions mechanism empowers the Council to suspend certain membership rights of a Member State, including voting rights in the Council in cases of a 'serious and persistent breach' of EU values (Article 7(2) TFEU)’. However, these mechanisms require a high decision-making threshold in the Council and in the European Parliament (when Parliament is called to participate) and rely heavily on Member States’ willingness to take action.

Rule of law - 8th parliamentary term

<div style="padding-top: 10px;">
Eighty million people in the EU (one-sixth of the population) have disabilities ranging from mild to severe.&nbsp;These people, who are often prevented by their disability from taking part in society and the economy, have a rate of poverty 70 % higher than the EU average.
</div>

<div style="padding-top: 10px;">The European Disability Strategy 2010-2020 (EDS) constitutes a comprehensive multiannual framework for implementing the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) at EU level. The EU adopted the EDS in November 2010, shortly before the UN CRPD entered into force for the EU. The strategy’s declared aim was to empower people with disabilities, so that they can enjoy their full rights as EU citizens and participate in society on an equal basis to others, in a barrier-free Europe. The strategy is based on eight priority areas (“areas for action”): accessibility, participation, equality, employment, education and training (including access to quality education and lifelong learning), social protection, health and external action.</div>

European Disability Strategy 2010-2020

Romania is EU member country since 1 January 2007.

Romania is a semi-presidential republic. Executive functions are held by both government and the president. The country is divided into 41 counties and the municipality of Bucharest. Each county is administered by a county council, responsible for local affairs, and a prefect responsible for administering national affairs at county level.

There are 32 members of the European Parliament from Romania.

EU - Romania - 8th parliamentary term

Recent developments in Hungary have led to a serious deterioration in the rule of law, democracy and fundamental rights which is testing the EU’s ability to defend its founding values.

Article 7 of the Treaty on European Union provides a mechanism to enforce EU values. Under Article 7(1), the Council may determine that there is a clear risk of a serious breach of EU values by a Member State and is intended to prevent an actual breach by addressing specific recommendations to the Member State in question. This can be triggered by one third of Member States, by Parliament or by the Commission. The Council has to adopt a decision by a four-fifths majority after having received Parliament's consent which also requires a two-thirds majority of the votes cast and an absolute majority of MEPs.

Rule of law in Hungary - 8th parliamentary term

The EU seeks to develop particular close relationship to Tunisia, its geographical neighbour, and to support Tunisia's economic and political reforms. The relationship emphasizes close cooperation on democratic reform, economic modernization, and migration issues.

On 14 September 2016, the European Parliament voted a resolution on EU relations with Tunisia in the current regional context. In June 2016 MEPs approved €500 million in EU loans to Tunisia on favourable terms, to help it reduce its external debt and consolidate its democratic mechanisms.

EU - Tunisia (8th parliamentary term)

To celebrate Europe Day, the EU institutions open their doors to the public on 5 May in Brussels, 5 and 9 May in Luxembourg and 10 June in Strasbourg.

The Open Day is your chance to get closer to the people you elect to represent you and see how they work to defend your interests in the European Union.

2018 Open Day in the EP in Brussels

Nicole Fontaine (born 16 January 1942 in Grainville-Ymauville, Seine-Maritime) was a French politician. Member of the EPP, she was the President of the European Parliament from 1999 to 2001.

Nicole Fontaine

Jean-Claude Juncker, President of the EC, comes to Parliament on 13 September to review the year and announce new initiatives in a debate with MEPs.

The State of the European Union debate - SOTEU - is an annual event that kicks off the new political season after the summer break. Jean-Claude Juncker, President of the European Commission, addresses Parliament to give an account of what the Commission has done in the past 12 months and also announce its plans for the coming year. The speech and the discussion with MEPs that follows provide an opportunity to reflect on the challenges facing Europe, including Brexit negotiations, security concerns and prospects for a closer economic union.

State of the Union 2017

In a debate on Tuesday morning, MEPs are expected to call on the EU to live up to its commitments and deliver more military assistance to war-torn Ukraine. 
With Russian air attacks intensifying across Ukraine - and with American military support currently held up by the U.S. congress - MEPs are likely to use the debate to call on European countries to do more to help the Kyiv government defend its territory for as long as necessary. They are also expected to urge EU heads of state or government to use the upcoming special European Council summit on 1 February to come to an agreement on a proposed €50 billion financial aid package for Ukraine.

Plenary session - Keeping commitments and delivering military assistance to Ukraine

The Belgian government stated that its thirteenth EU Presidency comes “at a moment when the European Union stands at a crossroads, dealing with the consequences of the Russian illegal aggression in Ukraine, the pandemic, the energy crisis, disinformation, extreme climate events, and a renewed conflict in the Middle East”.

The Belgian Presidency’s six key priorities are: 

•	Defending rule of law, democracy, and unity;

•	Strengthening our competitiveness;

•	Pursuing a green and just transition;

•	Reinforcing our social and health agenda;

•	Protecting people and borders; and

•	Promoting a global Europe. 


During Belgium’s EU Council Presidency, a new European Parliament will be elected between 6 and 9 June.

Plenary session - Presentation of the programme of activities of the Belgian Presidency

The plenary session will open with a short ceremony honouring the life and legacy of former Commission President Jacques Delors, who passed away on 27 December 2023.
Delors was President of the European Commission from 1985 to 1995 and was a crucial figure in the creation of the EU’s single market and the Economic and Monetary Union.
EP President Roberta Metsola said Jacques Delors was “a giant. A public servant. A visionary. He believed in a Europe built on competition that stimulates, cooperation that strengthens, and solidarity that unites. His vision guides us still today. We honour his memory by keeping his legacy alive.”
During the short ceremony, one speaker for each political group will take the floor.

Plenary session - Commemoration of Jacques Delors

President Metsola meets the Speaker of the Seimas Viktorija Čmilytė-Nielsen and deliver a keynote speech in the Lithuanian Seimas at the Commemoration of the Day of Defenders of Freedom and award ceremony of the Freedom Prize of the Republic of Lithuania.

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President to Vilnius (Lithuania)

Roberta Metsola, EP President is in Vilnius to meet with Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonytė, President Gitanas Nausėda, attend a discussion with young Lithuanians and participate in the ceremony of lighting of commemorative bonfires for the Day of Defenders of Freedom.

EP President Roberta Metsola is in Riga, where she will meet with Speaker of the Saeima Daiga Mieriņa, President of the Republic of Latvia Edgars Rinkēvičs, Prime Minister Evika Siliņa and Minister of Foreign Affairs Krišjānis Kariņš. President Metsola will then deliver a speech and participate in a discussion with young Latvians.

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President to Riga (Latvia)

Inauguration of the artwork “L’Aire d’un Souffle” placed in the proximity of Luxembourg Station in presence of the Vice-President of the European Parliament, Mr Rainer WIELAND, arrives to the venue of the ceremony and greets H.E. Ms Hadja LAHBIB, Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Affairs and Foreign Trade and Federal Cultural Institutions of the Kingdom of Belgium, as well as Mr Rudi VERVOORT, Minister-President of the Brussels-Capital Region.

Inauguration of the artwork “L’Aire d’un Souffle”

Roberta METSOLA, President of the European Parliament, holds a press conference after the European Council meeting held in Brussels on the 14th December.

Press conference by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, following her contribution to the European Council meeting

Ahead of the European Council meeting on 26-27 October, Renew leaders are meeting at the Academy Palace to discuss the party's priorities.

Renew Europe leaders meet ahead of the European Council meeting

Ahead of the European Council meeting on 26-27 October, EPP leaders meet to discuss the party's priorities.

EPP leaders meet ahead of the European Council meeting

EP President, Roberta METSOLA, participates to the EU-Western Balkans Summit. Before her address to the Council, she speaks to the press. One year after the 2022 summit in Tirana, EU and Western Balkans leaders met in Brussels for their fourth annual summit. The summit is an opportunity to reaffirm the EU membership perspective of the Western Balkans and also the need for partners’ sustained and irreversible reform achievements, underpinned by EU values and principles.

EU-Western Balkans Summit

The impact of the announced reform of the criminal code on Slovakia’s efforts to fight corruption is debated with Commission and Council. On 6 December, the new Slovak government tabled a draft law to overhaul the country’s penal code. If approved by its parliament, the special prosecutor’s office dealing with the most serious crimes and corruption would be dismantled. The government also intends to soften penalties for corruption offences. Several investigators and police officers looking into corruption charges have already faced repercussions from the new government, such as being dismissed, suspended or sidelined from these investigations. Prime Minister Robert Fico wants the draft law to be adopted under the urgency procedure. Slovak President Zuzana Čaputová has already said she would veto the law. Critics have warned that dismantling the special prosecutor’s office could have an impact on the ongoing investigation into the murder of journalist Ján Kuciak and his fiancée Martina Kušnírová in 2018.

Debate - Planned dissolution of key anti-corruption structures in Slovakia and its implications on the Rule of Law

In a debate with Council and Commission on Wednesday morning, MEPs will present their demands and expectations one day ahead of the EU summit on 14-15 December.

At their meeting in Brussels, heads of state or government are set to focus on the latest developments in Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and continued EU support for the country and its people, on the situation in the Middle East and on EU enlargement policy, including the stabilisation and association process. They will also discuss the EU’s long-term 2021-2027 budget with a view to reaching an agreement, security and defence issues as well as external relations.

Preparation of the European Council meeting of 14-15 December 2023

On Tuesday, MEPs will discuss with EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell the environmental destruction caused by Russia in its war against Ukraine. 
Russia's war has caused massive air, water, land and soil pollution, as well as significant damage to ecosystems, with the risk of spillover into neighbouring countries. Estimates based on Ukraine's environmental inspections show that Russia's invasion has inflicted roughly €52.4 billion in environmental damage.
Russia’s destruction of the Kakhovka Dam, causing catastrophic flooding and  submerging thousands of hectares of land, has been condemned by the EU as an act of ‘ecocide’. 

In the debate with EU diplomacy Chief Borrell, MEPs are  set to highlight  the importance of  holding Russia accountable, , with Ukraine having stated its determination to make Russia pay reparations for the environmental damage.

Statement by the Vice-President of the Commission/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy - Environmental consequences of the Russian aggression against Ukraine and the need for accountability

Situation in Gaza. On Tuesday afternoon, MEPs debate with EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell the need to release all hostages, to achieve a humanitarian ceasefire and the prospect of a two-state solution.

Statement by the Vice-President of the Commission/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy - Need to release all hostages, to achieve a humanitarian ceasefire and prospect of the two-state solution

On Tuesday at 11.30, President Roberta Metsola will award the 2023 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought  to Jina Mahsa Amini and the Woman, Life, Freedom Movement in Iran.

Jina Mahsa Amini was a 22-year-old Iranian Kurdish woman, who died in September 2022, following physical abuse at the hands of the Iranian security services, while in custody. Her death sparked massive women-led protests in Iran against the hijab law and other discriminatory laws.

Afsoon Najafi and Mersedeh Shahinkar, Iranian women's rights defenders, are expected to be present at the ceremony in Strasbourg.

Award of the Sakharov Prize 2023 to Jina Mahsa Amini and the Woman, Life, Freedom Movement in Iran

Commissioner and Rapporteur Nicola BEER (Renew, DE), Rapporteur, Anna-Michelle ASIMAKOPOULOU (on behalf of INTA Committee), Jessica POLFJÄRD (on behalf of ENVI Committee), Thierry BRETON, European Commissioner for Internal Market, Miriam LEXMANN (on behalf of AFET Committee) and Franc BOGOVIČ (on behalf of REGI Committee) deliver opening statements and consequent MEPS  debate on the Framework for Ensuring a Secure and Sustainable Supply of Critical Raw Materials in a plenary session in Strasbourg. 

Electric cars, solar panels and smartphones - all of them contain critical raw materials. They are pivotal for the EU’s green and digital transitions, and securing their supply is crucial for the European Union's economic resilience, technological leadership, and strategic autonomy. Since the Russian war against Ukraine and an increasingly aggressive Chinese trade and industrial policy, cobalt, lithium and other raw materials have also become a geopolitical factor.

The Critical Raw Materials Act, informally agreed with Council in November, should make the EU more competitive and sovereign by cutting red tape, promoting innovation along the entire value chain, and supporting SMEs. It also aims to boost research and the development of alternative materials and more environmentally-friendly mining and production methods.The legislation will set up economic incentives and a more stable and secure business framework for mining and recycling projects, with faster and simpler authorisation procedures.

Framework for ensuring a secure and sustainable supply of critical raw materials

The European Parliament released on 08.12.2023 the Autumn Eurobarometer. The Eurobarometer shows citizens’ continued support for the EU and a higher interest in the upcoming European elections, taking place 6-9 June 2024. The 2023 Autumn Eurobarometer focuses on the support of citizens for democracy and their awareness of the elections as well as on their priorities and perception of the EU.

European Parliament Eurobarometer - Autumn 2023

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

Press point by Javier ZARZALEJOS (EPP, Spain), Chair of LIBE, following the confirmation hearing of Magnus BRUNNER, Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration

Confirmation hearing of Jessika ROSWALL, Commissioner-designate, Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy

ITRE

IMCO

ENVI

AGRI

Confirmation hearing of Magnus BRUNNER, Commissioner-designate, Internal Affairs and Migration

LIBE

DEVE

Press point by David MCALLISTER (EPP, Germany), Chair of AFET, following the confirmation hearing of Dubravka ŠUICA, Commissioner, Mediterranean

Press point by Li ANDERSSON (The Left, Finland), Chair of EMPL, following the confirmation hearing of Dan JØRGENSEN, Commissioner for Energy and Housing

Committee on Budgetary Control

CONT

Confirmation hearing of Dubravka ŠUICA, Commissioner-designate, Mediterranean

AFET

DROI

EMPL

Confirmation hearing of Dan JØRGENSEN, Commissioner-designate, Energy and Housing

REGI

ECON

Press point by Michael McGrath, Commissioner-Designate for Democracy, Justice, and the Rule of Law

Statement by Ekaterina SPASOVA GECHEVA-ZAHARIEVA, Commissioner-designate, Startups, Research and Innovation

Press point by Javier ZARZALEJOS (EPP, Spain), Chair of LIBE, Anna CAVAZZINI (Greens/EFA, Germany), Chair of IMCO, and and Ilhan KYUCHYUK (Renew Europe, Bulgaria), Chair of JURI following the confirmation hearing of Michael McGrath, Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, and the Rule of Law

Confirmation hearing of Michael MCGRATH, Commissioner-designate, Democracy, Justice and the Rule of Law

FEMM

BUDG

JURI

AFCO

CULT

Confirmation hearing of Ekaterina SPASOVA GECHEVA-ZAHARIEVA, Commissioner-designate, Startups, Research and Innovation

Press point by Elissavet VOZEMBERG-VRIONIDI (EPP, Greece), Chair of TRAN, following the confirmation hearing of Apostolos TZITZIKOSTAS, Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism

Press point by Nela RIEHL (Greens/EFA, Germany), Chair of CULT, following the confirmation hearing of Glenn MICALLEF, Commissioner for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture and Sport

Confirmation hearing of Apostolos TZITZIKOSTAS, Commissioner-designate, Sustainable Transport and Tourism

TRAN

Confirmation hearing of Christophe HANSEN, Commissioner-designate, Agriculture and Food

PECH

Press point by Maroš ŠEFČOVIČ, Commissioner-Designate for Trade and Economic Security, Interinstitutional Relations and Transparency

Last minute briefing

Interrnational Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women - ' Orange your world ', UN campaign to end violence against women and girls. European Parliament building in Strasbourg lights up in orange

Interrnational Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women - ' Orange your world ', UN campaign to end violence against women and girls. Orange flag displayed outside the EP building in Brussels and Strasbourg.

Trainee Alumni Network 2024

Visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President to Malta - Address to the Malta Diversity & Inclusion Charter conference on "Women on Boards"

Pre session briefing

Viktoria FERENC in the EP in Brussels

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, to Paris (France) - 6th Trilateral Business Forum organised by MEDEF, BDI & Confindustria

LIBE the constitutive meeting of the LIBE Democracy, Rule of Law and Fundamental Rights Monitoring Group (DRFMG)

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, to Paris (France) - Meeting with Gerard LARCHER, President of the French Senate

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, to Paris (France) - Meeting with Michel BARNIER, French Prime Minister

Euroscola

COP29 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan - Meeting with members of the Azerbaijani Parliament

ITRE - Presentation of the Council Presidency’s programme - Exchange of views with Balázs HANKÓ, Hungarian Minister for Culture and Innovation

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, to Paris (France) - Meeting with Jean-Noel BARROT, French Minister of Foreign Affairs

EMPL - Public Hearing ' Loneliness in the European Union '

FISC - Exchange of views on ' The State of Play and The Future of European and international Tax Policy '

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, to Paris (France) - Meeting with Yaël BRAUN-PIVET, Speaker of the French National Assembly

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

The devastating floods in Spain, the urgent need to support the victims, to improve preparedness and to fight the climate crisis: opening statement by Janez LENARČIČ, European Commissioner for Crisis Management

This news item shows extracts from the hemicycle during the minute of silence in honour of the flood victims in Valencia, the EP President Metsola statement before the session and extracts from the debate on the devastating floods in Spain and the urgent need to support the victims. In response to the devastating floods in Spain that have claimed over 200 lives, the European Parliament debates measures to strengthen the EU’s resilience to extreme weather events and provide support to those impacted by the disaster. This new item, added to the agenda plenary approval, is discussed by MEPs following a tribute to the victims. The debate focuses on enhancing the EU’s crisis response, particularly in regions increasingly vulnerable to such climate-driven events. This session underscores the EU's commitment to improving climate adaptation efforts across member states.

The devastating floods in Spain, the urgent need to support the victims, to improve preparedness for the climate crisis: extracts from the opening statement by Roberta METSOLA, EP President and from the minute of silence and extracts from the debate

Statement by Roberta METSOLA, President of the European Parliament, two weeks after the devastating floods in Spain that have taken at least 223 lives. METSOLA invites everyone in the Hemicycle to join for a minute of silence. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Statement by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, and one minute of silence in memory of the victims of the floods in Spain

Exterior shots of the European Parliament in Brussels.

EP Plenary session (13/11 - 14/11): exterior editing shots of the European Parliament in Brussels

From 4th to 12th November 2024, the European Parliament held the Confirmation hearings of the Commissioners-designate, in Brussels. This clip is a compilation of cutaways from the 26 hearings.

Stockshots: Confirmation hearings of the Commissioners-designate (2024)

&lt;p>From 4th to 12th November 2024, the European Parliament held the Confirmation hearings of the Commissioners-designate, in Brussels. For 3 hours, MEPs quizzed the candidates for the College of Commissioners on their priorities ahead of the new mandate given by Ursula von der LEYEN, President of the European Commission. This clip highlights the best pictures from the 26 confirmation hearings.&lt;/p>

Highlights of the hearings of the Commissioners-designate (2024)

Press point by Antonio DECARO (S&D, IT), ENVI Committee Chair, Aurore LALUCQ (S&D, FR), ECON Committee Chair, and by hold a press point after the Confirmation hearing of Teresa RIBERA RODRÍGUEZ, Executive Vice-President-designate of the European Commission for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Press point by Press point by Antonio DECARO (S&D, IT), ENVI Committee Chair, Aurore LALUCQ (S&D, FR), ECON Committee Chair, Tsvetelina PENKOVA (S&D, BG), ITRE Vice-Chair

Teresa RIBERA RODRÍGUEZ, Executive Vice-President-designate of the European Commission for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition, of the VON DER LEYEN Commission is heard by the Committees on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI), Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) and Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE). Closing statement by Commissioner-designate and Committees Chairs

Confirmation hearing of Teresa RIBERA RODRÍGUEZ, Executive Vice-President-designate of the European Commission for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition: Closing statement by Commissioner-designate and Committees Chairs

Teresa RIBERA RODRÍGUEZ, Executive Vice-President-designate of the European Commission for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition, of the VON DER LEYEN Commission is heard by the Committees on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI), Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) and Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE). Questions / Answers (part 5 - Political groups in reverse order).

Confirmation hearing of Teresa RIBERA RODRÍGUEZ, Executive Vice-President-designate of the European Commission for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition: Questions / Answers (part 5 - Political groups in reverse order)

Teresa RIBERA RODRÍGUEZ, Executive Vice-President-designate of the European Commission for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition, of the VON DER LEYEN Commission is heard by the Committees on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI), Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) and Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE). Questions and answers

Confirmation hearing of Teresa RIBERA RODRÍGUEZ, Executive Vice-President-designate of the European Commission for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition: Questions / Answers (part 4 - Invited committees)

Teresa RIBERA RODRÍGUEZ, Executive Vice-President-designate of the European Commission for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition, of the VON DER LEYEN Commission is heard by the Committees on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI), Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) and Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE). Questions / Answers (part 3).

Confirmation hearing of Teresa RIBERA RODRÍGUEZ, Executive Vice-President-designate of the European Commission for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition: Questions / Answers (part 3)

Teresa RIBERA RODRÍGUEZ, Executive Vice-President-designate of the European Commission for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition, of the VON DER LEYEN Commission is heard by the Committees on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI), Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) and Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE). Questions / Answers (part 2).

Confirmation hearing of Teresa RIBERA RODRÍGUEZ, Executive Vice-President-designate of the European Commission for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition: Questions / Answers (part 2)

Teresa RIBERA RODRÍGUEZ, Executive Vice-President-designate of the European Commission for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition, of the VON DER LEYEN Commission is heard by the Committees on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI), Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) and Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE). Questions / Answers (part 1 - Political groups coordinators).

Confirmation hearing of Teresa RIBERA RODRÍGUEZ, Executive Vice-President-designate of the European Commission for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition: Questions / Answers (part 1 - Political groups coordinators)

Teresa RIBERA RODRÍGUEZ, Executive Vice-President-designate of the European Commission for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition, of the VON DER LEYEN Commission is heard by the Committees on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI), Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) and Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE). Opening statement by the Executive Vice-President-designate

Confirmation hearing of Teresa RIBERA RODRÍGUEZ, Executive Vice-President-designate of the European Commission for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition: Opening statement by the Executive Vice-President-designate

Teresa RIBERA RODRÍGUEZ, Executive Vice-President-designate of the European Commission for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition, of the VON DER LEYEN Commission is heard by the Committees on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI), Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) and Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE). Ambiance of the arrivals and opening statements by Antonio DECARO (S&D, IT), ENVI Committee Chair, Aurore LALUCQ (S&D, FR), ECON Committee Chair and by Borys BUDKA (EPP, PL), ITRE Committee Chair .

Confirmation hearing of Teresa RIBERA RODRÍGUEZ, Executive Vice-President-designate of the European Commission for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition: arrivals and opening statements by Antonio DECAROI , Aurore LALUCQ and Borys BUDKA

This news item shows ambience shots of the confirmation hearing of Teresa RIBERA RODRÍGUEZ, Executive Vice-President-designate of the European Commission for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition, such as the arrival of the Executive Vice-President-designate Teresa RIBERA RODRÍGUEZ, questions by MEPs, media and journalists. The European Parliament invites Executive Vice-President-designate Teresa RIBERA RODRÍGUEZ to public hearing to establish if she is suitable for the portfolio. Teresa Ribera Rodríguez was the Third Deputy Spanish Prime Minister and Minister for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge.

Confirmation hearing of Teresa RIBERA RODRÍGUEZ, Executive Vice-President-designate of the European Commission for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition: atmosphere shots

Roberta METSOLA, EP President, meets with the one millionth visitor to the House of European History (Brussels)

One millionth visitor to the House of European History (Brussels): atmosphere and meeting with Roberta METSOLA, EP President

Teresa Ribera Rodríguez was the Third Deputy Spanish Prime Minister and Minister for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge. She is now Executive Vice-President-designate of the European Commission for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition, for the von der Leyen Commission II. This stockshot illustrates the relations between Teresa Ribera Rodríguez and the EU institutions in 2023 and contains new footage in her office in Charlemagne.

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