At a glance: the plenary session is in full swing. In Strasbourg, MEPs vote on a proposal for strengthening European defence; Parliament adopts two resolutions on economic, social and employment priorities; and in the debating chamber, the Commission unveils the new Critical Medicines Act.

News in Brief – 13/03/2025 - English

At a glance: a new plenary session is ongoing. In Strasbourg, MEPs outlined their priorities for the next European Council summit; Parliament marked International Women’s Day; and President Metsola spoke about the 35th anniversary of the assertion of state continuity by Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.

News in Brief – 12/03/2025 - English

At a glance: a new plenary session is in progress; in Strasbourg, Parliament will reiterate its unwavering support for Ukraine; MEPs are set to call for the EU to use frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine and accelerate the phase out of Russian gas; Parliament will also outline the EU’s economic, social and employment strategy for 2025.

News in Brief – 11/03/2025 - English

At a glance: a new plenary session is in progress. In Strasbourg, MEPs will debate EU security and defence following the Special European Council meeting; Parliament will discuss the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza; the European Commission is expected to present a new legal framework on the return of people who have no legal right to stay in the EU.

News in Brief – 10/03/2025 - English

At a glance: Parliament’s Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality marked International Women’s Day by calling for a stronger role for women in peacebuilding and security; on Monday in Strasbourg, Parliament is set to vote on a 1.9 billion euro support plan for Moldova; MEPs will also discuss EU competitiveness and how to close the skills gap.

News in Brief – 07/03/2025 - English

International Women’s Day traces its origins back to early labour movements during the 1900s. It was and still is a day to commemorate the struggle and celebrate progress towards gender equality. The European Parliament is one of the most vocal advocates for gender equality in the EU. It has passed major resolutions and laws to protect women’s rights, promote equal opportunities and combat discrimination.

The International Women’s Day

At a glance: MEPs are preparing for the next plenary session in Strasbourg where they will focus on women’s rights and European defence; Parliament will also tackle the phase out of Russian gas and confirm EU support for Ukraine; also on the agenda is how to bolster critical medicine supply chains in the EU.

News in Brief – 06/03/2025 - English

At a glance: the European Council will convene in Brussels for a special summit on Ukraine and defence; in preparation for the summit, President Metsola met with NATO Secretary General Rutte and stressed the EU’s commitment to security and lasting peace in Ukraine; ahead of International Women’s Day, the Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality will hold a special meeting on security and peacebuilding.

News in Brief – 05/03/2025 - English

At a glance: MEPs strengthen protective measures against child sexual abuse; Latvian film ‘Flow’ – one of the nominees for the LUX Audience Award – wins the 2025 Oscar for Best Animated Feature; the European Parliament launches a public consultation on rare diseases.

News in Brief – 04/03/2025 - English

At a glance: the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Committee on Budgets will vote to confirm a EUR 1.9 billion Reform and Growth Facility for Moldova; in Washington DC, Parliament President Metsola spoke about the importance of transatlantic ties; Teresa Anjinho takes office as the new European Ombudsman.

News in Brief – 03/03/2025 - English

At a glance: MEPs will explore strategies to boost sustainable housing across the EU; the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy will discuss upcoming EU policies on defence and space with Commissioner Kubilius; and Monday is World Wildlife Day.

News in Brief – 28/02/2025 - English

At a glance: the European Parliament’s Committee on Women’s Rights will vote on stronger measures to combat child sexual abuse; MEPs will discuss medicine shortages and healthcare strategy; the head of the EU’s bank crisis authority will face MEPs’ questions.

News in Brief – 27/02/2025 - English

At a glance: on the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion, EU leaders reaffirmed their commitment to Ukraine with ongoing financial, humanitarian and military assistance; next week, EU leaders will meet in Brussels to discuss sanctions and strengthening Europe’s defence in response to Russia’s aggression; and MEPs visit Ireland to assess cohesion fund projects and regional development.

News in Brief – 26/02/2025 - English

At a glance: MEPs from the Committee on Internal Market and Consumer Protection are in Washington DC to strengthen EU-US cooperation on digital and consumer policies;  a delegation from the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs is in London to discuss financial services, sanctions on Russia, and Ukraine’s reconstruction; MEPs from the Committee on Foreign Affairs will visit Moldova to discuss EU accession and financial support.

News in Brief – 25/02/2025 - English

At a glance: on the third anniversary of Russia’s war of aggression, the European Parliament stands in solidarity with Ukraine; a delegation from the Subcommittee on Tax Matters will visit Finland and Estonia for talks on tax policy and competitiveness; and the Committee on Public Health is launching public consultations on rare diseases and women’s health.

News in Brief – 24/02/2025 - English

At a glance: MEPs and EU Member States have agreed on a major support plan to accelerate Moldova’s reforms, strengthen its resilience and advance its path toward EU integration; MEPs from the Committee on Development to visit Tanzania to evaluate Global Gateway initiatives; celebrating International Mother Language Day.

News in Brief – 21/02/2025 - English

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

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

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

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

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

EU - Ukraine

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

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

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

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

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

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

Russian aggression against Ukraine

Ever since Russia launched an illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine on 24&nbsp;February 2022, the EU and the Parliament have supported the country by condemning Russia’s aggression, sanctioning those responsible and providing financial and material aid. Parliament has also been supportive of Ukraine’s efforts to become an EU candidate country and has been calling on EU countries to launch accession talks.

The European Parliament President Roberta Metsola was in Kyiv on 1 April 2022 to express the European Union´s support to the Ukrainian people and to condemn the unjustified Russian attack.&nbsp; On 9 February 2023, the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the European Parliament during an extraordinary plenary session in Brussels.

The&nbsp; new EP reconfirmed in July 2024&nbsp; its view that the EU must continue to support Kyiv for as long as it takes until victory. The resolution, which sets out the newly-elected European Parliament’s first official position on Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, restates the continued support of MEPs for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders. It calls on the EU to maintain and extend its sanctions policy against Russia and Belarus, monitor and review its effectiveness and impact, and systematically tackle the issue of sanctions circumvention by EU-based companies, third parties, and third countries.

Parliament held also and&nbsp;extraordinary plenary session on 19th November 2024 with Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, marking 1000 days since Russia’s full-scale invasion.

Solidarity with Ukraine

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

European security and defence

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

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

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

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

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

Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament 2022-2024

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

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

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

Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament 2024-2027

EU leaders gathered&nbsp; for a special summit to discuss ongoing support for Ukraine and the future of European defence. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also joined the discussions. 

 

Main results

The text on Ukraine was firmly supported by 26 heads of state or government.

The leaders will return to both topics at the next European Council meetings.

The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, exchanged views with the leaders at the beginning of the meeting.

Since the onset of Russia’s full-scale war of aggression, the EU and its member states have stood by Ukraine’s side as it exercises its inherent right to self-defence, and have underlined the need to put an end to the war through a peace agreement based on the principles of the UN Charter and international law.

The EU remains committed to supporting Ukraine, in coordination with its partners and allies. To date, the EU has provided €135.4 billion to Ukraine, including €49.2 billion in military support. Of the total assistance, 65% has been provided as grants or in-kind support and 35% in the form of highly concessional loans.

Special European Council, 6 March 2025

Toppled Syrian president Bashar al-Assad fled to Moscow after Syrian rebels captured Damascus over the weekend of 7-8 December, ending decades of the Assad dynasty’s reign. Before armed fighters launched an offensive in November 2024, Syria’s territory was divided between regime forces (supported by Russia and Iran) and rebel factions – some backed by Turkey and the USA. After a 13-years-long civil war, Syria’s armed opposition said it ultimately plans to form a government based on functioning institutions and a “council chosen by the people”.

While analysts warn of an extremely challenging transition due to the “diverse coalition” of armed fighters, an end to the war could allow millions of refugees scattered across camps in Turkey, Lebanon and Jordan to return home after more than a decade.

Situation in Syria

The Delegation for relations with Palestine is concerned with developments in the Middle East Peace Process and the European Union's policy and actions concerning the establishment of the two state-solution. The European Parliament has repeatedly expressed its strong support for the two-state solution, with the State of Israel and an independent, sovereign, free, contiguous and viable Palestinian State with living side-by-side in peace. Delegation Members assess the situation in Palestine regularly, meeting with Palestinian authorities, Palestinian Legislative Council counterparts, and political and community leaders as well as NGOs.

EU - Palestine

Minimum wages in all EU countries should allow for decent living and working standards, and member states should promote collective bargaining for pay.&nbsp; With 505 votes in favour, 92 against and 44 abstentions, Parliament adopted&nbsp;new legislation&nbsp;on adequate minimum wages in the EU during September plenary.

The EU law, agreed with the Council in June, aims to improve working and living conditions for all workers in the EU, as well as promoting economic and social progress. To this end, it establishes minimum requirements for the adequacy of statutory minimum&nbsp;wages as provided by national law and/or collective agreements, and enhances the effective access of workers to minimum wage protection.

The new directive will apply to all EU workers who have an employment contract or employment relationship. The EU countries in which the minimum wage is already protected exclusively via collective agreements will not be obliged to introduce these rules nor to make these agreements universally applicable.

EU wants to improve workers’ rights and working conditions across Europe, from working hours and parental leave to health and safety at work. The EU has put in place a set of labour rules to ensure strong social protection. They include minimum requirements on working conditions - such as working time, part-time work, workers’ rights - to information about important aspects of their employment and the posting of workers. They have become one of the cornerstones of Europe's social policies.&nbsp;

Working conditions

In June 2023 Parliament adopted its position for negotiations with member states on rules to integrate human rights and environmental impact into companies’ governance. Companies will be required to identify, and where necessary prevent, end or mitigate the negative impact of their activities on human rights and the environment such as on child labour, slavery, labour exploitation, pollution, environmental degradation and biodiversity loss.

They will also have to monitor and assess the impact of their value-chain partners including not only suppliers but also sale, distribution, transport, storage, waste-management and other areas.

The European Parliament has consistently called for more corporate accountability and mandatory due diligence legislation. The European Commission proposal was introduced on 23 February 2022. It complements other existing and upcoming legislative acts, such as the deforestation regulation, conflict minerals regulation and draft regulation prohibiting products made with forced labour.

Corporate Responsibility

Clean energy is energy produced and consumed with a minimum of greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants.

The transition to clean energy requires large investments in all areas of energy use: electricity generation, transport, heating and cooling, and also industrial activities. Reducing energy demand by means of energy efficiency measures also helps to lower the emissions associated with energy use.

Clean energy

To support its publications, the European Parliamentary Research Service is producing a wide range of informative, timely and varied audio-visual products. These products include content-rich videos and animations, and also regular monthly podcasts, such as policy podcasts and science and technology podcasts. They are based on EPRS' independent, objective and authoritative analysis of, and research on, policy issues relating to the European Union, so empowering Members and committees in their parliamentary work and supporting parliamentary outreach to the wider public.

Restrictions: © The material of this package may not be edited and single videos must be shown in its entirety.

EPRS Multimedia Centre

Bosnia and Herzegovina - along with other Western Balkans countries – was identified as a potential candidate for EU membership during the Thessaloniki European Council summit in June 2003.

Since then, a number of agreements between the EU and Bosnia and Herzegovina have entered into force - visa facilitation and readmission agreements (2008), Interim Agreement on Trade and Trade-related issues (2008). The Stabilisation and Association Agreement (SAA) has been ratified and entered into force on 1 June 2015.

Bosnia and Herzegovina applied for EU membership in February 2016.&nbsp;The European Council granted the&nbsp;candidate status to the country on December 2022.

EU - Bosnia and Herzegovina

<center>Image: ©sibway/AdobeStock</center>

 

International Women’s Day is held every year on 8 March. Equality between women and men is one of the objectives of the European Union.

Over time, legislation, case-law and changes to the Treates have helped shore up this principle and its implementation in the EU. The European Parliament has always been a fervent defender of the principle of equality between men and women.

On this occassion, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, leader of Belarus’ democratic forces,&nbsp;Palina Sharenda-Panasiuk, a Belarusian opposition activist,&nbsp;Leniie Umerova, a&nbsp;Ukrainian and Crimean Tatar activist&nbsp;and Tata Kepler, a Ukrainian volunteer in military medicine highlighted the ongoing struggles for freedom, justice, and democracy in Belarus and Ukraine, stressing the deep connection between both countries' fates. They called on the EU to maintain strong support for civil society, independent media, and political prisoners, particularly the many women still unjustly detained.Testimonies exposed the brutal realities of occupation, including torture, forced labour, and systematic repression in Russian-controlled territories. The message was clear: only a strong and united Europe can help secure freedom for Belarus and Ukraine, ensuring peace and stability for the entire region.

International Women’s Day

The constitutive meetings of the European Parliament's standing committees and subcommittees take place in Brussels on 10 July 2019, following the appointment of their members in the plenary sitting of 3-4 July. During the meetings, each committee and subcommittee will elect its respective bureau, made up of a Chair and Vice-Chairs, for a two-and-a-half year mandate. The newly set up committees will then start holding their regular meetings during the week of 22 July.

INTA - Committee on International Trade

President Metsola addresses the 75th anniversary of the founding of the Society for the Award of the International Charlemagne Prize

EP President, Roberta METSOLA participates to 75th anniversary of the Charlemagne Prize

MEPs and the Commission debate its recently-proposed Automotive Industry Action Plan. Announced on 5 March 2025, it is intended to support the European automotive sector as it deals with high manufacturing costs, the low-carbon transition, and increased competition from China. A resolution will be put to a vote during the April plenary session.

Debate on the Action plan for the automotive industry

On Tuesday, MEPs and the Commission debate changes to EU rules on the returns of people who have no legal right to remain in Europe.

The proposal for a new legal framework on so-called “returns”, announced by President Ursula von der Leyen in July 2024, is expected to be formally unveiled by the European Commission on Tuesday.

During the plenary debate, MEPs scrutinise the proposal, which is intended to increase the return rate of third-country nationals not entitled to stay in the EU. Parliament is likely to emphasise the importance of cooperation with third countries, including on the readmission of their own nationals, as well innovative measures such as the establishment of return hubs in third countries.

Debate on the new EU approach on migrant returns

Four women fighting for freedom, peace and justice in their home countries – from Belarus, leader of the country's democratic forces Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, and Palina Sharenda Panasiuk; and Lenie Umerova and Tata Kepler from Ukraine – have all been invited to address plenary., Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, leader of Belarus’ democratic forces, 

will speak to MEPs at a solemn session on Tuesday at noon. 

In the early afternoon, MEPs and Council and Commission representatives will debate the Commission’s “Roadmap for Women’s Rights” (expected to be adopted by the Commission on Friday 7 March). The discussion is expected to focus on the EU’s role in safeguarding and advancing women’s rights and the principles and measures outlined in the Roadmap. Key issues will include the implementation of EU legislation, such as the first ever EU rules to combat violence against women, the rules on improving gender balance on corporate boards, and binding pay transparency measures. MEPs are also likely to discuss the need for women’s equal participation in the economy and society, including in politics, and the impact of shifting political dynamics on women’s rights and gender equality.

International Women's Day Celebration

Event in the European Parliament to support to Belarusian political prisoners in the presence of EP President Roberta METSOLA

Event in the European Parliament to support to Belarusian political prisoners

EP President, Roberta METSOLA  addresses the EU Remembrance Day for Victims of Terrorism event

On Tuesday, Parliament assess the outcome of the 6 March Special European Council with Presidents Costa and von der Leyen and discuss the need to bolster Europe’s security.

In a joint debate on European security, MEPs assess the results of the 6 March special European Council convened by President António Costa to discuss Ukraine and European defence and attended by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. At a critical time for Ukraine and European security, as President Donald Trump’s new US administration has paused support for Kyiv and raised questions about future US defence engagement in Europe, MEPs will hear from Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on how the EU plans to strengthen its defence capabilities.

On Tuesday morning, MEPs also outline their expectations for the 20 -21 March EU summit, which is expected to focus - besides Ukraine - on the Middle East, Europe’s competitiveness, trade policy, and migration management.

In a separate debate on Tuesday afternoon, MEPs and representatives of the Polish Council Presidency and the European Commission discuss the upcoming white paper on the future of European defence, set to be unveiled by the Commission and the European External Action Service in mid-March 2025. The white paper will address defence sector capability issues, industrial competitiveness and investment needs. It should also frame the overall approach to EU defence integration, and outline how best the EU can respond to security threats. Plenary will wind up the debate with a vote on a resolution on Wednesday.

Debate on the EU summits and on the urgent need to bolster Europe’s security architecture

Last minute briefing on March EP Plenary

Plenary preparations. Political groups will prepare for the 10 - 13 March session, where MEPs will mark International Women’s Day, debate the future of European defence, and draw their conclusions from the Special European Council meeting of 6 March while outlining their demands and expectations for the 20-21 March EU summit. MEPs will also discuss new Commission proposals on returns of third country nationals with no right to stay, and the Critical Medicines Act, and will debate accelerating the phase-out of Russian gas and dealing with Russian frozen assets. Political groups will prepare a resolution on the EU’s continued support for Ukraine, discuss the European Semester for economic, employment and social policy coordination, and explore ways to support the reconstruction of Syria.

Pre-session press briefing. The EP’s Press Service holds a press briefing with the Parliament’s political group spokespersons at 11.00 on Friday (Anna Politkovskaya room, press centre, Brussels).

Pre session briefing on March EP Plenary

Roberta METSOLA, EP President Official visit to Malta

EU leaders are meeting for a special summit to discuss continued support for Ukraine and European defence and exchange views on European contributions to the necessary security guarantees required to ensure a lasting peace in Ukraine.

The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, is invited to the meeting.

Since the start of Russia’s military aggression, the EU and its member states have provided nearly €135 billion in support for Ukraine and its people, including €48.7 billion to support the Ukrainian armed forces.

The EU has also adopted unprecedented sanctions against Russia: the latest sanctions, adopted on 24 February 2025, target vital areas of the Russian economy, including banking, Putin’s shadow fleet and goods and technologies in the industrial and energy sectors.

More info: https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/meetings/european-council/2025/03/06/

Special European Council

Women in defence, security and peace building. A special meeting of the Committee on Women's Rights and Gender Equality with members of national parliaments and invited panellists – including women in leadership roles in the military, academics, and activists – is scheduled in the run-up to the International Women's Day (8 March). The meeting will include introductory remarks by the European Commissioner for Equality, Hadja Lahbib, and will focus on 'Strengthening the Women, Peace, and Security Agenda – Upholding Women's Rights in Defence, Security, and Peacebuilding. (Thursday) A media seminar is organised on Wednesday afternoon, with EP President Roberta Metsola, MEPs, and guests from Ukraine, Israel, Palestine and international organisations.

Inter-parliamentary committee meeting on "Strengthening the Women on the occasion of the International Women's Day 2025

Meeting of the EP Conference of Presidents in the presence of Ursula VON DER LEYEN, President of the European Commission

TUESDAY:

President Metsola leads talks with European companies in Washington DC
President Metsola addresses Members of the European Parliament's Committee on Internal Market and Consumer Protection

WEDNESDAY:

President Metsola leads roundtable discussion with the United States Chamber of Commerce 
President Metsola pays tribute to United States servicemen and women on the occasion of the 80th Anniversary of the end of World War II at Arlington National Cemetery
President Metsola meets with Members of Congress in the House of Representatives and the Senate at Capitol Hill

THURSDAY:

President Metsola addresses a Keynote Speech at Johns Hopkins University titled 'Europe and the United States in a New World'
President Metsola leads roundtable talks with American & European business leaders on the Meridian Corporate Council

Roberta METSOLA, EP President Official visit to Washington DC, United States of America

As a sign of European solidarity and support for Ukraine, 3 years since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion, the European Parliament displays a special set-up of EU-Ukraine flags in front of its buildings in the 3 working places.

3 years anniversary of Russian aggression against Ukraine

Roberta METSOLA, EP President addresses the Meta pan-European Youth Summit

The EP and Poland’s Sejm and Senate organise a conference bringing together European and national MPs, to discuss stability, economic coordination and governance in the EU. The meeting is opened by EP President Roberta Metsola, Marshal of the Polish Sejm Szymon Hołownia and Senate Marshal Małgorzata Kidawa-Błońska.

European Parliamentary Week

Roberta METSOLA, EP President meets with Polish Marshals of Sejm and Senate

Meeting of the EP Conference of Presidents

EP Plenary session - A Vision for Agriculture and Food

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.
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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

Delegation for relations with the countries of Central America, including the EU-Central America Association Parliamentary Committee Ordinary meeting

DCAM

Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs Joint meeting Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs

ECON

LIBE

Committee on Security and Defence Ordinary meeting

SEDE

Joint Committee Procedure ENVI and AGRI (CJ14)

AGRI

ENVI

Subcommittee on Human Rights Ordinary meeting

DROI

Committee on International Trade Ordinary meeting

INTA

Committee on Budgets Ordinary meeting

BUDG

Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs Ordinary meeting

Committee on Public Health Ordinary meeting

SANT

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

EP Plenary session - EU Consumers Day: filling the gaps in protecting 440 million consumers in the EU

EP Plenary session - Accelerating the phase-out of Russian gas and other Russian energy commodities in the EU

Changemakers exhibition.Opening

EP Plenary session - Frozen Russian assets

EP Plenary session - Adoption of the proposal for a Parenthood Regulation

EP Plenary session - Social and employment aspects of restructuring processes: the need to protect jobs and workers’ rights

EP Plenary session - Union of Skills: striving for more and better opportunities to study, train or work in the EU and to bring our talents back home

Conference of Delegation Chairs meeting

6th EU-Bosnia and Herzegovina Stabilisation and Association Parliamentary Committee meeting

François-Xavier BELLAMY and Raphaël GLUCKSMANN meet with journalists

EP Plenary session - 100 days of the new Commission – Delivering on Defence, Competitiveness, Simplification and Migration as our priorities

EP Plenary session - Voting session

Changemakers exhibition - Debate

Roberta METSOLA, EP President meets with Benjamin HADDAD, French Minister delegate for Europe

EP Plenary session - Action Plan for the Automotive Industry

Iratxe GARCÍA PÉREZ (S&D, ES), S&D Group Leader, speaks to the press in the European Parliament in Brussels during the plenary session (8-10/07/2020)

Press conference by Iratxe GARCÍA PÉREZ (S&D, ES), S&D Group Leader: S&D press briefing

During the plenary session of the European Parliament in Brussels (08-10 July 2020), Angela MERKEL, German Chancellor presents the programme of activities of the German Presidency. First round of political group leaders

Presentation of the programme of activities of the German Presidency: First round of political group leaders

During the plenary session of the European Parliament in Brussels (08-10 July 2020), Angela MERKEL, German Chancellor presents the programme of activities of the German Presidency. Meeting between David SASSOLI, EP President and Angela MERKEL, German Chancellor and signature of the Golden book

Meeting between David SASSOLI, EP President and Angela MERKEL, German Chancellor and signature of the Golden book

During the plenary session of the European Parliament in Brussels (08-10 July 2020), joint debate on the European Council meetings of 19 June and of 17-18 July 2020. Intermediary remarks by Charles MICHEL, President of the European Council. This transcription speech is the result of an automatic process. Check against delivery

Joint debate - European Council meetings of 19 June and of 17-18 July 2020: Intermediary remarks by Charles MICHEL, President of the European Council

During the plenary session of the European Parliament in Brussels (08-10 July 2020), MEPs debate the conclusions of the European Council meeting of 19 June 2020. Extracts from the statements by Charles MICHEL, President of the European Council, Maros SEFCOVIC, Vice-President of the EC in charge of Interinstitutional relations and Foresight, Siegfried MUREȘAN (EPP, RO), Iratxe GARCÍA PÉREZ (S&D, ES), Philippe LAMBERTS (Greens/EFA, BE), and Johan VAN OVERTVELDT (ECR, BE).

Conclusions of the European Council meeting of 19 June 2020: extracts from the debate

Ahead the plenary session (08-10 July 2020), David SASSOLI, EP President, welcomes Angela MERKEL, German Federal Chancellor in the European Parliament in Brussels. They make a joint press point before Angela MERKEL signs the golden book. Extracts from the statements and the meeting.

Arrival of Angela MERKEL, German Federal Chancellor and welcome by David SASSOLI, EP President: extracts from the statements and the meeting

During the plenary session of the European Parliament in Brussels (08-10 July 2020), Angela MERKEL, German Federal Chancellor presents the programme of activities of the German Presidency. Welcome by David SASSOLI, EP President and statement by Angela MERKEL, German Federal Chancellor This transcription speech is the result of an automatic process. Check against delivery.

Welcome by David SASSOLI, EP President and statement by Angela MERKEL, German Federal Chancellor

During the plenary session of the European Parliament in Brussels (08-10 July 2020), Angela MERKEL, German Chancellor presents the programme of activities of the German Presidency. Arrival of Angela MERKEL, German Chancellor

Arrival of Angela MERKEL, German Chancellor

During the plenary session (8-10 July) in the European Parliament in Brussels, MEPs debate on preventing money laundering and terrorist financing. EU is putting in place a comprehensive Union policy. Extracts from the statements by Michael ROTH, German Presidency, Valdis DOMBROVSKIS, Executive Vice-President of the EC in charge of an Economy that works for People, David CASA (EPP, MT), Eero HEINÄLUOMA (S&D, FI), Luis GARICANO (RE, ES), and Paul TANG (S&D, NL).

A comprehensive Union policy on preventing money laundering and terrorist financing: extracts from the debate

After the presentation by Angela MERKEL, German Chancellor of the programme of activities of the German Presidency during the plenary session of the European Parliament in Brussels (08-10 July 2020), Ursula VON DER LEYEN, President of the EC receives Angela MERKEL, German Chancellor, Charles MICHEL, European Council President and David SASSOLI, EP President

Ursula VON DER LEYEN, President of the EC receives Angela MERKEL, German Chancellor, Charles MICHEL, European Council President and David SASSOLI, EP President

The EP Spokesperson holds a press briefing with remote access for journalists in the European Parliament in Brussels before the pleanry session (08-10 July 2020)

EP press briefing

European consumers who have suffered the same infringement of their rights, will soon be able to sue a company as a group, irrespective of where they live. Virtually impossible  now, this new legislation will make it easier to protect consumers, while avoiding abusive lawsuits.

Better protection for European consumers

European energy supplies should be secure, diverse but also green. This is why Parliament wants to update trans-European energy network funding guidelines, to fit EU climate goals, in line with the green deal, while ensuring no region is left out.

Diversified and secure European energy

David SASSOLI, EP President, is joined by Edgar MORIN, French philosopher and sociologist and Roberto SAVIANO, Italian writer and essayist, for an event held by video conference entitled “Europe, changing the paradigm.” It is the first in a series of public events, ideas for a new world, promoted by the President of the European Parliament with philosophers, writers, economists, representatives of civil society, and social leaders. The goal is to develop new ideas for post-COVID Europe. To create a Europe that works better and is closer to its citizens in a moment that requires imagination, action, and political courage, breaking from the approaches of the past to face new challenges with new tools. The event is moderated by Fabio FAZIO, TV Journalist.

Ideas for a new world: Europe changing the paradigm

Members of the Regional Development Committee (REGI) approved the establishment of the Just Transition Fund (JTF) with 27 votes in favour, 7 against and 8 abstentions during a vote in the European Parliament in Brussels. MEPs request a significant increase in the budget allocated from the 2021-2027 financial framework (from EUR 11 270 459 000 in current prices to EUR 25 358 532 750 in 2018 prices, also referred to as the “principle amount”). This amount would be supplemented with an additional EUR 32 803 000 000 in current prices, as proposed under the EU Recovery Instrument. Statements by Manolis KEFALOGIANNIS (EPP, EL), rapporteur, and Younous OMARJEE (GUE/NGL, FR), REGI Chair.

Establishing the Just Transition Fund: extracts from the vote in REGI

Members of the EP Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE) exchange views concerning the Greek/Turkish border and respect for fundamental rights with Ylva JOHANSSON, Commissioner for Home Affairs, Michalis CHRISOCHOIDIS, Greek Minister for Citizen protection, Notis MITARACHI, Greek Minister for Migration and Asylum, and with Fabrice LEGGERI, Executive Director of the European Union Agency (Frontex) and Minos MOUZOURAKIS, Legal Officer at Refugee Support Aegean (RSA). Statements by Elissavet VOZEMBERG-VRIONIDI (EPP, EL), Domènec RUIZ DEVESA (S&D, ES), Sophia IN'T VELD (RE, NL), Tineke STRIK (Greens/EFA, NL), Juan Fernando LÓPEZ AGUILAR (S&D, ES), LIBE Chair.

The situation at the Greek/Turkish border and respect for fundamental rights: extracts from the exchange of views in LIBE

Virtual presentations of the audiovisual facilities in the European Parliament in Brussels.

Virtual presentation of the EP audiovisual facilities in Brussels

Virtual presentations of the audiovisual facilities in the European Parliament in Strasbourg.

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