At a glance: MEPs debate stronger protections for Europe’s forests; Parliament’s Environment and Internal Market Committees push for stricter vehicle recycling rules; the European Parliament and national parliaments discuss how to strengthen the EU’s human rights role at the UN.

Brèves – 20/03/2025 - français

At a glance: the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs will hold its third monetary dialogue with European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde; the Committee on International Trade will discuss the implications of the EU trade countermeasures taken in reaction to the US tariffs on EU products; the Committee on International Trade will also vote on two proposals to provide macro-financial assistance in loans to Egypt and Jordan.

Brèves – 19/03/2025 - français

At a glance: Magnus Brunner, the Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, talks to the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs; Judge Tomoko Akane, the President of the ICC, addresses the Human Rights Subcommittee and the Legal Affairs Committee; a delegation from Parliament’s Women’s Rights and Gender Equality Committee attends the 69th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women in New York.

Brèves – 18/03/2025 - français

At a glance: the Committee on Industry Research and Energy will focus on recent developments in energy policy; Parliament’s Committee on Employment and Social Affairs will discuss a Commission proposal on new rules for trainees; and the Committee on Transport and Tourism will address passenger rights in the context of multimodal journeys.

Brèves – 17/03/2025 - français

At a glance: the plenary session closed yesterday. In Strasbourg, Parliament reiterated that the EU must contribute to security guarantees for Ukraine; MEPs stressed that the EU must support Syria’s political transition; and Parliament approved an agreement on transferring air passenger name data from the EU to Canada.

Brèves – 14/03/2025 - français

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.

Brèves – 13/03/2025 - français

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.

Brèves – 12/03/2025 - français

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.

Brèves – 11/03/2025 - français

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.

Brèves – 10/03/2025 - français

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.

Brèves – 07/03/2025 - français

L’origine de la Journée internationale des droits des femmes remonte aux premiers mouvements ouvriers dans les années 1900. Le but de cette journée était alors de commémorer la lutte pour l’égalité entre les femmes et les hommes et de célébrer les progrès accomplis. C’est toujours le cas aujourd’hui. Le Parlement européen est l’un des plus ardents défenseurs de l’égalité de genre dans l’Union européenne. Il a adopté des résolutions essentielles pour protéger les droits des femmes, promouvoir l’égalité des chances et lutter contre la discrimination.

Journée internationale des droits des femmes

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.

Brèves – 06/03/2025 - français

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.

Brèves – 05/03/2025 - français

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.

Brèves – 04/03/2025 - français

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.

Brèves – 03/03/2025 - français

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.

Brèves – 28/02/2025 - français

Erasmus+ is the EU's programme to support education, training, youth and sport in Europe. Merging seven prior programmes, it offers opportunities not only for students, but also for a wide variety of individuals and organisations, helping them develop, share knowledge and have a life-changing experience at institutions and organisations in different countries.

In 2018, Parliament once again stressed the importance of inclusion in the Erasmus+ programme and asked the Commission to draw up a framework by 31 March 2021, along with a set of inclusion measures and guidelines for their implementation.

In late 2019, Parliament approved an amending budget for that same year’s EU budget in order to reinforcecore mobility activities, which are central to the development of a European education area. The amendment increased commitment appropriations for Erasmus+ to support mobility in higher education, and vocational education and training. However, Parliament also pointed out that this will need to be matched by increased payment appropriations.

See more on this topic by visiting our <a href="https://multimedia.europarl.europa.eu/en/erasmus-8th-parliamentary-term_11104_pk">package </a>for the 8th parliamentary term.

Erasmus + (2019-2020)

The EU Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM) was set up in 2013 as a voluntary system to help member states deal with increasingly frequent natural disasters. Since 2019, when rescEU was created, the EU can jointly procure resources to assist countries hit by disasters when national capacity is overstretched.

During the current COVID-19 crisis, the UCPM facilitated the repatriation of over 90,000 EU citizens from all over the world. Over 1.3 million protective masks, along with ventilators, personal protective equipment, therapeutics and other supplies have been procured and deployed through rescEU to support national health services. A new strategic rescEU medical reserve, currently hosted by nine EU countries, allows the EU to react to crises more quickly.&nbsp;

During the April plenary the&nbsp; European Parliament&nbsp; adopted a strengthened EU legal framework for civil protection, in response to the experience of the COVID-19 pandemic. The mechanism aims to ensure the EU and its member states will be better prepared to respond to large-scale disasters, especially when these affect several countries simultaneously. In order to deploy crisis relief more swiftly, the Commission will be able to acquire directly, under specific conditions, the necessary resources via the rescEU reserve. 1.263 billion EUR will be allocated to the Mechanism for 2021-2027, supplemented by 2.056 billion EUR from the EU Recovery Instrument (approximately five times more than the previous seven-year budget).

Civil protection mechanism

The EU is under growing pressure from disinformation by countries, non-state actors and terrorist groups which promote violence and use pseudo-news agencies and internet trolls to challenge democratic values and divide Europe.

The EU has been increasingly hit by destabilising messagesamounting – in different forms and to different degrees – to coherent hostile ‘strategic communications’ campaigns, or the processes of infusing communications activities with an agenda or plan to impact the behaviour of a target audience.

Anti-EU propaganda

The European Parliament has been a driving force in legislating on freedom of movement of people and services. Since 2004, it has been raising the issue of the need to improve the Posting of Workers Directive (PWD).

During the negotiations on the revision of the PWD, Parliament specifically pushed for ‘equal pay for equal work’ and for Member States to be able to apply regional, sectoral or industry agreements. In addition, it sought to enable Member States, by means of a review clause, to place foreign undertakings under the same national obligations in the event of sub-contracting. It has also successfully brought about a two-year transposition and application period for the directive.

Posted workers

The Commission proposed to make 2021 the European Year of Rail to support the delivery of its European Green Deal objectives in the transport field. A series of events, campaigns and initiatives in 2021 will promote rail as a sustainable, innovative and safe mode of transport. This proposal shall also help to step up the pace of rail modernisation, which is needed to make rail a more popular alternative to other transport modes.

New rules for rail passenegers, voted by the EP in April, will better protect and assist train travellers, by guaranteeing rerouting and helping passengers when their train is delayed or cancelled. The new law will also improve access and assistance to people with reduced mobility, and will help the introduction of more dedicated spaces for bicycles on trains.

2021 European Year of Rail

The European Parliament has always been a strong advocate of passenger rights irrespective of the mode of transport used. Its main aim is now to ensure that the texts adopted in recent years are properly applied.

Common rules have been drawn up in an effort to ensure that passengers receive at least a minimum level of assistance in the event of serious delays to or cancellation of their journey, irrespective of the mode of transport used, and, in particular, to protect more vulnerable travellers. The rules also provide for compensation schemes. A wide range of derogations may be granted for rail and road transport services, however, and court actions challenging the application of the rules are still common.

See more on this topic by visiting our <a href="https://multimedia.europarl.europa.eu/en/passenger-rights-8th-parliamentary-term_9702_pk">package</a> for the 8th parliamentary term.

Passenger rights

The European Solidarity Corps is the European Union programme which creates opportunities for young people to volunteer or work in projects in their own country or abroad that benefit communities and people around Europe. It brings together young people to build a more inclusive society, supporting vulnerable people and responding to societal challenges. It offers an inspiring and empowering experience for young people who want to help, learn and develop.

The Multiannual Financial Framework 2021-2027 (MFF) proposal follows through a number of issues that the European Parliament had highlighted. The Commission proposes that the European Solidarity Corps 2021-2027 would be a stand-alone programme, with its own budget, and no longer depend on the budget of Erasmus and other EU programmes. The European Solidarity Corps 2021-2027 regulation absorbs the European Voluntary Service, which currently falls under the 'Youth' section of the Erasmus+ 2014-2020 programme.

European Solidarity Corps (2019-2020)

The Taliban recently announced that they would not allow girls above the 6th grade to attend school until further notice, thereby backtracking on earlier promises to grant women above a certain age access to education. They have also imposed other bans, such as forbidding women from flying without a male guardian. MEPs assessed the latest developments in the country in a debate with EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell on Tuesday 5 April. A resolution was also voted&nbsp;during the plenary session. The take over of the country by the Taliban has resulted in women exclusion&nbsp;from government and education and their rights and freedoms are threatened. The international community, including the European Parliament, has called for&nbsp;guarantees for Afghan women and girls.&nbsp;

EU - Afghanistan

Serbia, along with 5 other Western Balkans countries, was identified as a potential candidate for EU membership during the Thessaloniki European Council summit in 2003. In 2008, a European partnership for Serbia was adopted, setting out priorities for the country's membership application, and in 2009 Serbia formally applied. In March 2012 Serbia was granted EU candidate status. In September 2013 a Stabilisation and Association Agreement between the EU and Serbia entered into force.

EU - Serbia

The refugee and migrant crisis in Europe has exposed the need for reform of the Common European Asylum System, in general, and of the Dublin rules, in particular.

The right to asylum is a fundamental right and recognising the refugee status where the criteria are fulfilled is an international obligation.

In the EU, an area of open borders and freedom of movement, Member States need to have a joint approach to guarantee high standards to persons in need of international protection through establishment of a Common European Asylum System based on fundamental rights.

The European Parliament always strongly promoted a Common European Asylum System in accordance with the Union’s legal commitments. The Parliament worked as well as for the reduction of illegal migration as well as for the protection of vulnerable groups.

See more on this topic by visiting our <a href="https://multimedia.europarl.europa.eu/en/asylum-8th-parliamentary-term_3202_pk">package</a> for the 8th parliamentary term.

Asylum (2019-2020)

The European Parliament together with the French Parliament organised&nbsp;a virtual European Parliamentary Week 2022 on 15-16 March 2022.&nbsp;The European Parliamentary Week consists of the European Semester Conference and the Interparliamentary Conference on Stability, Economic Coordination and Governance in the European Union.

This year the conference was dominated by the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on EU economies, its recovery and next steps. The parliamentarians will debated on the implementation of the national recovery and resilience plans as well as on the reform of the Stability and Growth Pact and the new own-resources.&nbsp;Roberta Metsola, EP President, opened&nbsp;the event which counts with several Prime Ministers and European Commissioners&nbsp;among the high-level speakers.

The Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) is intended to be the Union's main tool in support of economic and social recovery from the consequences of the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;The RRF entered into force on 19 February 2021 It will provide €672.5 billion in grants and loans as financial support over the coming years. The Facility is the flagship instrument of Next Generation EU and aims to offer large-scale financial support for public investment and reform, in order to mitigate the economic and social consequences of the pandemic in the Member States and to make EU economies more sustainable. The scope of application refers to policy areas related to economic, social and territorial cohesion, the green and digital transitions, health, competitiveness, resilience, productivity, education and skills, research and innovation, smart, sustainable and inclusive growth, jobs and investment, and the stability of the financial systems. In order to receive support through the Facility, Member States are required to produce recovery and resilience plans proposing a congruent set of reforms and public investment projects that could be implemented up until 2026. Currently 22 of the 26 submitted national recovery plans&nbsp;have been approved. The Commission has not yet approved the Hungarian, Polish, Swedish and Bulgarian plans. Requested pre-financing of €52.3 billion has already been disbursed to 17 Member States.

Recovery and resilience facility (RRF)

On 21 and 22 October, EU leaders met in Brussels to discuss COVID-19, digital transformation, energy prices, migration and external relations. EU leaders noted that vaccination campaigns around Europe have brought about significant progress in the fight against COVID-19.

Nevertheless, the situation in some member states remains very serious. Leaders called for efforts to overcome vaccine hesitancy to be stepped up, including by tackling disinformation, notably on social media. The European Council called for further coordination to facilitate free movement within the EU and travel into it. It encouraged the Commission to accelerate its work with third countries on the mutual recognition of certificates.

Leaders called for the rapid removal of obstacles hampering the global rollout of vaccines, and invited the Commission to further engage directly with manufacturers in this respect.

The European Council addressed the recent spike in energy prices and considered the impact of these price rises on citizens and businesses, especially those striving to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. EU leaders noted that the toolbox presented by the Commission contained useful measures for both the short and the longer term.

Following the European Council of 24 and 25 June 2021, the European Commission and the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy presented eight action plans for priority countries of origin and transit. To prevent loss of life and to reduce pressure on European borders in accordance with EU and international law, EU leaders called on the Commission and the High Representative to make those plans operational, implement them without delay and underpin them with adequate financial support.

European Council, 21 and 22 October 2021

Animated videos - "How It Works"

A lifelong progressive and a steadfast witness to many of the 20th century’s great upheavals, Louise Weiss (1893-1983) has left an indelible mark on the Europe we know today.

As both a determined intellectual and a tireless activist, she was a pioneer of the European ideal. She was born on 25 January 1893 into a liberal, upper middle-class family from Alsace. After obtaining a prestigious qualification (agrégation de lettres féminine) in 1914, she became a journalist, and from the 1920s was involved in efforts to build peace and unity throughout the continent.

A passionate campaigner for women’s rights, she organised suffragette demonstrations in the 1930s to demand the right to vote and equal civil and political rights for women. After the war she travelled the world making ethnographic documentaries and became a well-known conference speaker, writer and diarist, working alongside some of the greatest politicians and thinkers of her age.

In 1979, she was elected to the European Parliament at the first European elections held by direct universal suffrage. As the oldest Member of the European Parliament she chaired the constituent session of Parliament and delivered its first inaugural address. Louise Weiss died in 1983. In 1999, the building containing the Chamber of the European Parliament in Strasbourg was named in her honour.

Exhibition on Louise Weiss: a committed European

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According to latest resolution of the EP, Taiwan represents&nbsp;a key EU partner and democratic ally in the Indo-Pacific, one that contributes to maintaining a rules-based order in the midst of an intensifying rivalry between the major geopolitical actors in the region.

To step up cooperation, a first EU-Taiwan relations report adopted by MEPs in October 2021 stresses the urgent need to launch an “impact assessment, public consultation and scoping exercise” for an EU-Taiwan Bilateral Investment Agreement (BIA). Members highlight the importance of trade and economic relations between the EU and Taiwan, including on matters relating to multilateralism and the World Trade Organization, technology such as 5G, public health, and essential cooperation on critical supplies like semiconductors.

The European Parliament has called for closer relations with Taiwan guided by the EU’s One China Policy, while issuing warnings over the continued tensions across the Taiwan Strait. MEPs wish to address these tensions, to protect Taiwan’s democracy, and the island’s status as an important EU partner..

Relations with Taiwan

The EU and Tunisia have close and long-standing trade relations. Tunisia was the first partner in the EU’s Southern Neighbourhood to sign and implement an Association Agreement with the EU. The EU is the biggest foreign investor in Tunisia, accounting for 85% of the foreign direct investment (FDI) stock in the country. The current situation in the country is the topic of the discussion in the EP.

During October II plenary the European Parliament debated how to end the political crisis in Tunisia. Tunisian President Kais Saied currently holds almost all executive, legislative and judicial powers, after he dismissed the prime minister and suspended parliament in July 2021.

In September Saied also suspended, by presidential decree the country’s Constitution. Saied appointed Najla Bouden Romdhane as prime minister, making her the first woman in the country's history to hold the office. Bouden Romdhane has yet to name a government. With thousands of Tunisians demonstrating in the streets in support of or in opposition to the president’s decisions, fears are growing that political divisions could spiral into violent confrontations between these rival camps.

EU - Tunisia

EP President takes part in the European Council, followed by a press conference.

EU leaders meet to discuss the following (provisional agenda):

Ukraine
Middle East
Competitiveness
Next Multiannual Financial Framework and new Own Resources
Migration
Oceans
External relations

EP President, Roberta METSOLA takes part in the European Council meeting

The Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs holds its regular debate with European Central Bank (ECB) President Christine Lagarde. MEPs are likely to question her on the US shift to protectionism and its impact on the euro area economy, and on the recent decision to lower interest rates, among other issues

ECON: Monetary Dialogue with Christine LAGARDE, ECB President

EP President, Roberta METSOLA meets with Nikos Christodoulides, President of Cyprus, ahead of the European Council of 20 March 2025. Christodoulides is a politician, diplomat, and academic who has served as the 8th President of Cyprus since 2023.

EP President, Roberta METSOLA meets with Nikos Christodoulides, President of Cyprus

EP President, Roberta METSOLA meets with Antonio Guterres, UN Secretary General

International Criminal Court (ICC) President Judge Tomoko Akane speaks to the Human Rights subcommittee and the Legal Affairs committee on the impact of the Court’s recent decisions, and its fight against impunity in cases of war crimes and crimes against humanity

DROI- exchange with the President of International Criminal Court (ICC)

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

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

SANT - Exchange of views with Oliver VARHELYI, Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare

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

Avec le retour de la guerre sur le continent européen, il est plus important que jamais de mesurer le niveau des menaces pour la paix, la sécurité et la démocratie dans le monde - comme le fait l’indice de Normandie. L’indice annuel a été présenté pour la première fois à l’occasion du Forum Normandie pour la Paix en juin 2019, à la suite d’un partenariat noué entre le Parlement européen et la région de Normandie. L’indice a été conçu et préparé par le Service de recherche du Parlement européen (EPRS), en collaboration avec l’Institut pour l’économie et la paix et sur la base de données fournies par celui-ci. Le présent document expose les conclusions de l’exercice 2023, qui s’appuie sur les données compilées en 2022, et explique comment l’indice peut être utilisé pour comparer la paix - définie sur la base des performances d’un pays donné par rapport à une série de menaces prédéterminées - entre pays et régions. Il est complété par 61 études de cas consacrées chacune à un pays, sur la base de l’indice. Ce document fait partie de la contribution de l’EPRS au Forum mondial Normandie pour la paix 2023. Il est accompagné de deux documents, l’un sur la contribution de l’Union européenne à la paix et à la sécurité en 2022, l’autre sur les efforts de consolidation de la paix de l’Union européenne en Iraq.

Évaluer les menaces pour la paix et la démocratie au niveau mondial: Indice Normandie 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 to the EU-Mexico Joint Parliamentary Committee Ordinary meeting

Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs Ordinary meeting

ECON

Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development Ordinary meeting

AGRI

Special committee on the European Democracy Shield Ordinary meeting

EUDS

Committee on Culture and Education Extraordinary meeting

CULT

Panel for the Future of Science and Technology Panel on "Accelerating the Rollout of EU Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure"

Delegation to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Union for the Mediterranean Ordinary Meeting

DMED

Delegation to the Euro-Latin American Parliamentary Assembly Ordinary meeting

DLAT

Special committee on the Housing Crisis in the European Union Ordinary meeting

HOUS

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

DCAM

Press conference by Roberta METSOLA, EP President at the European Council meeting

Monetary Dialogue with Christine Lagarde, President of the European Central Bank

Roberta METSOLA, EP President meets with Petteri ORPO, Finnish Prime Minister

AGRI - Exchange of views with Commissioner Christophe Hansen on the Vision for Food and Agriculture

Roberta METSOLA, EP President meets with Nikos CHRISTODOULIDES, President of the Republic of Cyprus - Press Point

SEDE - Henna Virkkunen, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission, Commissioner for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy

DROI - Strengthening the role of the EU at the UN and exchanges of best practices in the human rights field

Roberta METSOLA, EP President meets with Nikos CHRISTODOULIDES, President of the Republic of Cyprus

REGI - Consideration of draft report: The role of cohesion policy investment in resolving the current housing crisis

AGRI - Exchange of views with Gelsomina Vigliotti, Vice President of the EIB on the financing package for agriculture, forestry

ECON - Exchange of views with the Executive Vice-President Stéphane Séjourné and the Commissioner Maria Luís Albuquerque on the Competitive Compass and on the Savings and Investments Union

LIBE - Upcoming European Union Internal Security Strategy - Exchange of views with Magnus Brunner, Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration

Roberta METSOLA, EP President meets with Antonio GUTERRES, Secretary-General of the United Nations

DG PERS event - International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

ECON - Public Hearing on Assessing the adequacy of the macroprudential framework for non-bank financial institutions in the EU

DEVE - Financing for development, Global Gateway and engagement in fragile situations.Exchange of views with EIB Global, the World Bank and ECDPM

AFCO workshop ' Stock-taking of the European elections 2024 '

Roberta METSOLA, EP President, participates at the European Council meeting (20/03): Doorstep. Addressing the European Council today in Brussels, President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola highlighted the following topics: Ukraine, economy and MFF.

Doorstep by Roberta METSOLA, President of the European Parliament

Iratxe GARCÍA PÉREZ, President of the Group of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats (S&D, ES) makes a statement ahead of the European Council meeting.

Statement by Iratxe GARCÍA PÉREZ, President of the Group of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats (S&D, ES) ahead of the European Council meeting

The Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) holds its regular debate with European Central Bank (ECB) President Christine LAGARDE. MEPs question her on the US shift to protectionism and its impact on the euro area economy, and on the recent decision to lower interest rates, among other issues. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Monetary Dialogue with Christine LAGARDE, President of the European Central Bank: opening statements by Aurore LALUCQ (S&D, FR), Chair of ECON Committee, and Christine LAGARDE

Renew Europe leaders meet ahead of the Special European Council meeting in Brussels. Statement of Valerie HAYER, President of RENEW Europe

Renew Europe leaders meet ahead of the Special European Council meeting: arrivals and doorsteps

The Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) holds its regular debate with European Central Bank (ECB) President Christine LAGARDE. MEPs question her on the US shift to protectionism and its impact on the euro area economy, and on the recent decision to lower interest rates, among other issues

Monetary Dialogue with Christine LAGARDE, President of the European Central Bank: ﻿extracts from the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs meeting

EPP leaders meet ahead of the European Council meeting (20/03/2025) in Brussels. EU leaders meet in Brussels to discuss competitiveness and to follow up on the special European Council held on 6 March to address recent developments in Ukraine and the next steps on defence. The next multiannual financial framework (MFF), migration, the latest developments in the Middle East, multilateralism and other global issues are also on the agenda.

EPP leaders meet ahead of the European Council meeting: arrivals and doorsteps

Roberta METSOLA, President of the European Parliament, meets with Petteri ORPO, Finnish Prime Minister, at the European Parliament in Brussels. This news item shows extracts from the arrival of Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, welcome by EP President Roberta Metsola, handshake and family photo. Finnish Prime Minister's visit takes place ahead of the European Council of 20 March 2025, where EU leaders discuss competitiveness and the follow-up to the special European Council held on 6 March to address recent developments in Ukraine and the next steps on defence.

Roberta METSOLA, EP President, meets with Petteri ORPO, Finnish Prime Minister: ﻿arrival and welcome

Patriots.eu meet ahead of the Special European Council meeting in Brussels.

Patriots.eu meet ahead of the Special European Council meeting: arrivals and doorsteps

Roberta METSOLA, EP President and Nikos CHRISTODOULIDES, President of Cyprus hold a joint press point. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Press point by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, and Nikos CHRISTODOULIDES, President of Cyprus

EP President, Roberta METSOLA meets with Nikos CHRISTODOULIDES, President of Cyprus. At the end of the meeting, they hold a press point on the outcomes of the informal UN meeting in Geneva focused on the Cyprus issue.

Roberta METSOLA, EP President meets with Nikos CHRISTODOULIDES, President of Cyprus: arrival, welcome, roundtable and extracts from the press point

Roberta METSOLA, President of the European Parliament, meets with Antonio Guterres, United Nations Secretary General at the European Parliament in Brussels. The European Union is a key partner for the United Nations, and the EU Member States are collectively the largest financial contributors to the UN system, year after year. This news item shows extracts from the arrival of UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, welcome by EP President Roberta Metsola, handshake and family photo, and roundtable discussion between the two international leaders.

Roberta METSOLA, EP President meets with António GUTERRES, Secretary General of the United Nations (UN): arrival, welcome and roundtable

Judge Tomoko AKANE, President of the International Criminal Court (ICC) speaks to the Human Rights subcommittee and the Legal Affairs committee on the impact of the Court’s recent decisions, and its fight against impunity in cases of war crimes and crimes against humanity. The meeting with MEPs is an opportunity to discuss the latest developments in the international criminal justice architecture in a changing geopolitical landscape, including US President Donald Trump’s executive order imposing sanctions on the ICC on 6 February 2025.

Exchange of views with Judge Tomoko AKANE, President of the International Criminal Court: extracts and statement by Judge Tomoko AKANE, President of the International Criminal Court

The fifth meeting of the EU-UK Parliamentary Partnership Assembly (PPA) takes place in Brussels. Members exchange views on the Future of EU-UK foreign and security policy cooperation, Youth Opportunities, and Trade, customs and sanitary and phytosanitary measures. Sandro GOZI (Renew, FR) and Marsha DE CORDOVA (MP, UK) hold a press point on the 5th EU-UK Parliamentary Partnership Assembly.

Press point by Sandro GOZI (Renew, FR) and Marsha DE CORDOVA, Co-Chairs of the EU-UK Parliamentary Partnership Assembly (EU-UK PPA) on the 5th EU-UK Parliamentary Partnership Assembly

Pasquale TRIDICO (The Left/IT), Chair of the Tax Matters subcommittee and Wopke HOEKSTRA, European Commissioner responsible for taxation hold a press conference on the EU Tax Symposium 2025

Press Conference by Pasquale TRIDICO (The Left/IT), Chair of the Tax Matters subcommittee and Wopke HOEKSTRA, European Commissioner responsible for taxation on the EU Tax Symposium 2025

On Leadership: Lessons for the 21st Century is a 2024 book by Tony Blair. Drawing from his time as the UK Prime Minister from 1997 to 2007, the book offers insights and advice for political leaders. EP President Roberta METSOLA participates to a book talk with him at the Library of the European Parliament in Brussels.

Roberta METSOLA, EP President exchanges with Tony BLAIR, former British Prime Minister: extracts from the book talk - "On Leadership: Lessons for the 21st Century"

President Metsola addresses the 75th anniversary of the founding of the Society for the Award of the International Charlemagne Prize in Aachen, Germany. Founded in 1950, the International Charlemagne Prize of Aachen is the oldest and most renowned honor awarded to individuals or institutions for their efforts in promoting European unification.

75th anniversary of the founding of the Society for the Award of the International Charlemagne Prize: extracts from the keynote speech by Roberta METSOLA, EP President

The International Charlemagne Prize of Aachen, established in 1950, is the longest-standing and most esteemed recognition for individuals or organizations contributing to the advancement of European unity. President Metsola addresses the 75th anniversary of the founding of the Society for the Award of the International Charlemagne Prize in Aachen, Germany.

Keynote speech by Roberta METSOLA, EP President for the 75th anniversary of the founding of the Society for the Award of the International Charlemagne Prize

MEPs vote on : MRs - Democracy and human rights in Thailand, notably the lese-majesty law and the deportation of Uyghur refugees MRs - Severe political, humanitarian and human rights crisis in Sudan, in particular the sexual violence and child rape MRs - Unlawful detention and sham trials of Armenian hostages, including high-ranking political representatives from Nagorno-Karabakh, by Azerbaijan MRs - Social and employment aspects of restructuring processes: the need to protect jobs and workers’ rights

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