At a glance: a delegation from the European Parliament’s Committee on International Trade is attending the WTO Public Forum; the European Parliament celebrates Multilingualism Day later this month; European Mobility Week begins on Monday.

Notizie in breve – 12/09/2024 - italiano

At a glance: political groups are preparing for the next European Parliament plenary session; the implementation of the Digital Services Act; and Mario Draghi’s  report on the future of European  competitiveness.

Notizie in breve – 11/09/2024 - italiano

At a glance: von der Leyen to present the structure and portfolios of the College of Commissioners at Parliament’s Conference of Presidents; political groups prepare for the next European Parliament plenary session; and an International Trade Committee delegation attends the WTO Public Forum.

Notizie in breve – 10/09/2024 - italiano

At a glance: Parliament’s Committee on Regional Development is holding a discussion with the European Commissioner for Cohesion and Reforms; the WTO Joint Statement Initiative on e-commerce; and Multilingualism Day.

Notizie in breve – 09/09/2024 - italiano

Although the European defence industry is generally competitive, more than a decade of underinvestment has kept it from reaching its full potential. The significant under-investment in European defence is demonstrated by the severe difficulties the European defence technological and industrial base (EDTIB) has in obtaining finance. Member States' defence budgets will continue to be the EDTIB's main source of funding; however, more collaborative actions and spending would enhance output and efficiency.

EPRS policy podcast - Financing the European defence industry

Electrification is gaining momentum across many sectors, including transport, buildings and industry, driven by the EU's climate ambition and security of supply. As the cost of renewable energy technologies like solar and wind continues to fall, electrification presents an opportunity to reshape the European economy, enhancing competitiveness and promoting sustainable growth.

EPRS Science and Technology podcast - What if electrification transformed the EU economy?

At a glance: the Committee on International Trade will hold an exchange of views with the Commission about negotiations on the WTO plurilateral agreement on e-commerce; a delegation from the same committee will take part in the WTO Public Forum in Geneva; and the EU Solidarity Fund will be mobilised to support five EU countries.

Notizie in breve – 06/09/2024 - italiano

At a glance: European Parliament President Roberta Metsola is attending the G7 Speakers’ Conference in Italy; former President of the European Central Bank Mario Draghi presented his report on the future of Europe’s competitiveness at yesterday’s meeting of the Conference of Presidents; today is the International Day of Charity.

Notizie in breve – 05/09/2024 - italiano

At a glance: the Committee on Budgetary Control is discussing EU fraud and corruption investigations; the Committee on the Internal Market is reviewing toy safety rules; and the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development is exchanging views on pesticide residues in food.

Notizie in breve – 04/09/2024 - italiano

At a glance: Parliament’s committees will start meeting this week.

Notizie in breve – 03/09/2024 - italiano

At a glance: Parliament’s committees will start meet this week and the agenda of the next plenary session of the European Parliament.

Notizie in breve – 02/09/2024 - italiano

Passate le elezioni, deputati e deputate assumono vari ruoli. Possono diventare Presidente del Parlamento, entrare a far parte di una commissione o anche diventare osservatori, una funzione meno nota ma comunque importante.
In questo podcast, vedremo più da vicino cosa significa essere un osservatore, per capire chi può farlo e quali sono i suoi compiti.

Fuori dal gergo: il ruolo degli osservatori

Quando pensiamo al Parlamento europeo, il più delle volte immaginiamo i deputati che votano nell'emiciclo. In realtà, le votazioni si svolgono solo una volta al mese, durante le sessioni plenarie. Ma cosa sono queste tornate e come si svolgono?

Fuori dal gergo: la sessione plenaria

Avete mai sentito parlare dei vicepresidenti del Parlamento europeo?
Già dal nome, si capisce che sono figure politiche importanti, che svolgono un ruolo cruciale. 
Ma chi sono? Cosa fanno di concreto? E come vengono eletti?

Fuori dal gergo: i vicepresidenti del Parlamento europeo

Fuori dal gergo - Funzioni e poteri della Presidente del Parlamento europeo

La funzione di Presidente del Parlamento europeo

At a glance: the findings of the special Eurobarometer survey on the rule of law; the agenda for the next plenary session of the European Parliament; and passenger rights in the EU.

Notizie in breve – 26/07/2024 - italiano

Hungary officially joined the EU on 1 March 2004 and the Schengen Area in December 2007.

The Hungarian EU accession negotiations started on 31 March 1998. Hungary had successfully concluded negotiations on its accession at the Copenhagen European Council in December 2002. Hungary has 22 MEPs, 12 votes in the Council and has chaired the Council of the European Union from January to June 2011.

EU - Hungary

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

Defying international criticism, Iran has sentenced many protestors to death, and continues to execute people arrested during recent demonstrations.

The demonstrations started in mid-September after a young woman, Mahsa Amini, died in the custody of the ‘morality police’ for, they claimed, breaking the strict hijab rules. Hundreds of people have been killed in the protests that have followed and thousands arrested because of their brutal repression by the government.

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights has called these death sentences “state sanctioned killing”, and said that the Iranian government is using executions to intimidate the population and stamp out dissent.

While the EU is discussing a fourth round of sanctions because of the regime crackdown and Iran's military support for Russia, some member states have called for the classification by the EU of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organisation.

EU - Iran

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.&nbsp;

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.

In Joint Statement&nbsp;the Presidents of the European Union Institutions on the occasion of the 2 year anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine&nbsp; declared: "The European Union will continue its strong and unwavering political, military, financial, economic, diplomatic and humanitarian support to help Ukraine defend itself, protect its people, its cities and its critical infrastructure, restore its territorial integrity, bring back the thousands of deported children, and bring the war to an end. The European Union has decided to open accession negotiations with Ukraine and will help it on its path towards EU membership. The future of Ukraine lies in the European Union. The European Union will continue to provide Ukraine with regular and predictable financial support. The 50 billion euro financial assistance package for 2024-2027 will help Ukraine meet its immediate needs, rebuild its economy and society, modernise its institutions and consolidate democracy and the rule of law."

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.

Solidarity with Ukraine

The European Union and Lebanon enjoy close political relations in the framework of an Association Agreement between the two, which has been in force since April 2006.

This agreement promotes human rights, political dialogue, free movement of goods, and economic, social and cultural cooperation. The EU is committed to supporting democracy, good governance, social inclusion, education and sustainable development in Lebanon.

EU - Lebanon

Israel is a key and strategic ally of the European Union. Political, economic and social cooperation - as well as trade, cultural and scientific exchanges - with Israel date almost to the origins of the EU itself.&nbsp;

President of the EP Roberta Metsola reacted to the attacks launched by Hamas on Israel&nbsp;during the first weekend of October by stressing that the EP condemned&nbsp;&nbsp;the terror and violence waged against innocent people.

In the statement by MEPs David McAllister and Antonio López-Istúriz White declared:

“We follow with utmost concern the news of terrible violence in Israel. We strongly condemn the heinous attack launched against Israel by Hamas terrorists on this Sabbath morning. We affirm the right of Israel to defend itself, and express our solidarity with Israel in these difficult moments.

We must not let opponents of peace ruin the chances of reconciliation and peaceful co-existence in Israel and Palestine. We call on all partners for peace to be present and active in order to bring the peace process back on track.”

EU - Israel

During October plenary &nbsp;Parliament will assessed the escalating violence in the Middle East and the latest developments in Lebanon. with EU foreign policy chief Borrell.&nbsp;MEPs debated also with the Commission the anniversary of the Hamas terrorist attack that killed 1,200 Israelis on 7 October 2023 and triggered the current war in Gaza and wider Middle East destabilisation.

While around 100 Israeli hostages remain unaccounted for, the numbers of victims in Gaza rises every day, and the war is escalating as Israel has begun ground attacks on Hezbollah inside Lebanon. In retaliation for Israel’s attacks on Hezbollah and on Hamas in Gaza, Iran has fired ballistic missiles on Israel.

The EU remains fully committed to efforts to avert a regional war, according to High Representative Borrell. Furthermore, he called on the EU to pledge to prevent Lebanon’s state institutions from collapsing, to look for a political response to the conflict and has urged for a global alliance to implement the two-state solution for Palestine and Israel. MEPs adopted a number of resolutions in the last 12 months, calling for an&nbsp;immediate and permanent ceasefire, the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and the unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, 40,000 Palestinians have been killed since October 2023 as a result of Israel’s response to the attack by Hamas.

Situation in Israel and Gaza

Since its creation in 1993, the single market has helped to make everyday life easier for people and businesses, fuelling jobs and growth across the EU. In 2023, the EU commemorated&nbsp;the 30th anniversary since its creation.&nbsp;

Three decades since its creation,&nbsp;&nbsp;MEPs called for renewed commitment and political will from member states and EU institutions, as well as a specific action plan for 2030 and beyond, in order to further strengthen and develop the single market, especially in areas such as services, energy, telecommunications and the digital single market.

The single market is generally considered to be the cornerstone of the EU economy and one of the greatest achievements of the European Union. Comprising nearly 450 million people and 20 million enterprises, it constitutes the largest integrated market in the world, worth €14 trillion in 2018.

The free movement of persons, goods, services and capital is the pillar on which the single market is built. The cross-border movement of the first three has been severely affected by the pandemic of Covid-19. Soon after its outbreak, the majority of Member States reintroduced internal border controls on grounds of an immediate threat to public health. These have been accompanied by restrictions or bans on international passenger transport and bans on entry and exit.&nbsp;

Single market

Compared to the rest of the world, Europe has the best levels of social protection and also ranks highly in terms of quality of life and wellbeing. However, it faces a wide range of challenges, including impact of the COVID situation.

The EU has only limited competence when it comes to social issues as most of it is up to national governments. The responsibility for employment and social policies lies mostly with the member states and their governments. This means that national governments - and not the EU - decide on issues such as wage regulations, including minimum wage, the role of collective bargaining, pensions systems and retirement age, and unemployment benefits.

However, over the years, the EU has been working on social issues throughout the European integration process and come up with a series of instruments in the social sector. These include EU laws, funds and tools to better coordinate and monitor national policies. The EU also encourages countries to share best practices on issues such as social inclusion, poverty and pensions.

One of the supporting tools is the European Social Fund+, with a total budget of €88 billion for next 7 years. It will play an important role in the implementation of the action plan on the European Pillar of Social Rights and in countering the socio-economic effects of the pandemic. It integrates the former European Social Fund, the Youth Employment Initiative (YEI), the Fund for European Aid to the most Deprived (FEAD) and the EU programme for Employment and Social Innovation (EaSI) into one fund.

Social Europe

A propososal for a regulation adopted by the Commission on 19 December 2017 aims to strenghten controls by nationals market surveillance and customs authorities to ensure that products are safe and comply with the Union rules.

The legislation covers a large proportion of products marketed in the EU in more than 20 industrial sectors, including electro-technical products, machinery, radio/telecoms equipment, toys, medical devices, construction products and high speed rail systems.

The package consists of two regulations and a decision designed to remove barriers to the free movement of goods while improving consumer safety.

Goods package and safer products

EU rules on product safety are defined in the General Product Safety Directive (GPSD). Under the directive a product is safe if it meets all statutory safety requirements under European or national law. If there are no regulations or EU standards referenced in the Official Journal of the European Union, the product's compliance is determined according to other reference documents such as other European standards, national or international standards, Commission recommendations, or codes of practice. The General Product Safety Directive applies to consumer products when there are no specific provisions with the same objective in the rules of EU Law governing the safety of the products concerned. That means it applies totally to products such as child care articles or certain COVID-19 related products, such as sanitising gels and certain type of face masks and only residually to products where sectorial legislation exists such as pharmaceuticals and medical devices. Businesses must: only place products which are safe on the market, inform consumers of any risks associated with the products they supply, make sure any dangerous products present on the market can be traced so they can be removed to avoid any risks to consumers. MEPs want more stringent EU rules to protect children Existing rules and market surveillance activities should be strengthened to ensure the safety of all toys sold on the EU market, including from non-EU countries and online.

In March 2023 MEPs, also endorsed the revised rules on product safety of non-food consumer products. The new regulation aligns the existing General Product Safety Directive with the latest developments in digitalisation and the surge in online shopping.

In this Plenary MEPs are set to vote on their position on a proposal to revamp EU legislation on toy safety. The update of the current directive aims to respond to the increase in online shopping and the use of digital technologies, among other challenges. The proposed regulation extends EU bans on harmful chemicals in toys to include endocrine disruptors and makes it easier for consumers to access safety information, for example via a QR code.

Consumer product safety

The European Parliament has its seat in Strasbourg in France where the 12 monthly part-sessions, including the session at which the decision on the annual EU budget is taken, should be held.

Find in this package, audiovisual content of the activities of the European Parliament in Strasbourg such as atmosphere inside and outside the buildings and parliamentary work..

The European Parliament in Strasbourg

On 27 June 2014, the EU and Moldova signed an Association Agreement, including a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (DCFTA), which entered into force in July 2016. In April 2014, Moldova became the first country in the Eastern Partnership to benefit from a visa-free regime. Moldova is the country which is very much affected by the influx of refugees from Ukraine, after the Russian aggression against the country.

In a speech to the European Parliament on 18 May 2022, Moldovan President Maia Sandu called on EU countries to rally behind her country’s European aspirations. In her address to MEPs in Brussels, President Sandu outlined how Russia’s invasion of neighbouring Ukraine had echoes of Europe’s troubled past, with its ‘unabashed land grabs, geopolitical conquests and spheres of influence’.&nbsp;

Against the backdrop of the war, Moldova formally applied for EU membership in March 2022 and President Sandu stated her firm conviction that the country is part of the European community.

EU - Moldova

The European Council held an exchange of views with the President of Ukraine. The European Council addressed Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine in all its dimensions and reviewed progress on the Union’s comprehensive support to Ukraine and its people as Ukraine exercises its inherent right to self-defence.

The European Council is deeply alarmed by the dramatic military escalation in the Middle East and the risk this represents for the entire region. It calls on all parties to exercise the utmost restraint, put an end to all hostilities immediately and fully abide by international law, including international humanitarian law. The European Union is fully committed to helping de-escalate the situation and reduce tensions. The European Council held an in-depth strategic discussion on migration in all its dimensions and across all routes.

&nbsp;The European Council also calls for enhanced cooperation with countries of origin and transit, through comprehensive mutually beneficial partnerships, to address root causes and to fight trafficking and smuggling with a view to preventing loss of life and irregular departures. Visa policy alignment by neighbouring countries is an important element in this regard. Safe and legal pathways in line with national competences are key for regular and orderly migration.

European Council, 17-18 October 2024

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed MEPs in a formal sitting in Brussels on 9th of February 2023.

In his speech, President Zelenskyy stressed how Russia is trying to annihilate not only sovereign Ukraine, but also the European “way of life”. He outlined how he sees Europe as a continent steeped in rules, values, equality and fairness, and (...) a place where Ukraine is firmly at home. The Kremlin, on the other hand, is doing its utmost to destroy European values, President Zelenskyy said, stressing how Ukraine is fighting for and protecting Europe from this anti-European force.

Opening the session, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola said to President Zelenskyy: “We understand that you are fighting not only for your values, but for ours.”

This was&nbsp;the first time that President Zelenskyy came to the European Parliament in person, after addressing MEPs remotely during an&nbsp;extraordinary session on 1 March, shortly after Russia started its war against Ukraine, and on&nbsp;14 December&nbsp;when Parliament’s 2022 Sakharov Prize was awarded to the brave people of Ukraine.

Visit of President Zelenskyy to the European Parliament

After a series of special committees and a committee of inquiry, created to delve into the various tax leaks and scandals of recent years, Parliament established a more permanent setup to shed light on the matter.

The Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) subcommittee on tax matters, FISC, will be composed of 30 members. It will deal particularly with the fight against tax fraud, tax evasion and tax avoidance, as well as financial transparency for taxation purposes.

The constituent meeting will take place on Wednesday, 23 September 2020.

FISC - Subcommittee on Tax Matters

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

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

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

Preparation of the European Council of 17-18 October 2024

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

Facing fake news, populism and disinformation in the EU

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

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

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

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

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

One year after the 7 October terrorist attacks by Hamas

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola meets with British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.

Keir Starmer, leader of the Labour Party from 2020 until 2024 and Prime Minister of the UK since July 2024, has a background as a human rights lawyer and is the former Director of Public Prosecutions.

EP President Roberta Metsola meets with Prime Minister of the UK, Sir Keir Starmer.

The Conference of Presidents will meet to discuss the confirmation hearings of Commissioners-designate, a crucial step in the approval process of the new European Commission. On Tuesday, the Conference of Committee Chairs will finalize the structure and schedule of these hearings, including common questions and the division of responsibilities among parliamentary committees and a proposal will be made to the Conference of Presidents.

The Conference of Presidents, led by the EP President and political group leaders, oversees Parliament's legislative planning, committee responsibilities, and relations with EU institutions. This meeting play a key role in setting the Parliament’s agenda.

Meeting of the Conference of Presidents

On Monday, 30 September 2024, the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) holds its first Monetary Dialogue of the 10th parliamentary term with Christine Lagarde, President of the European Central Bank (ECB). This important session focuses on the ECB's recent monetary policy decisions, following the ECB Governing Council's move on 12 September to lower the key interest rate by 25 basis points, marking a continued shift in policy since June.

In addition to monetary policy, the dialogue will also cover the Capital Markets Union (CMU) and its significance for the ECB's strategies. The Capital Markets Union (CMU) is an initiative aimed at creating a single, integrated capital market across all EU member states. Its primary goal is to make it easier for businesses to access funding, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), by diversifying sources of finance beyond traditional banking systems. The CMU seeks to connect savings more effectively with investment opportunities, promote cross-border investments, and deepen financial integration within the EU.

Economic Dialogue with Christine LAGARDE, ECB President - EP Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola is in New York for the 2024 United Nations General Assembly, actively promoting the EU's global agenda. From the critical importance of international parliamentary cooperation in addressing global challenges and tackling inequalities to supporting sustainable development and highlighting sport’s role in fostering economic and social development, Metsola's presence in New York underscores the European Parliament’s active role in shaping multilateralism, global governance, and sustainable development at the UN General Assembly.

Official visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, to New York (United States)

On Thursday morning, MEPs discuss the European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruling that deemed Ireland’s tax arrangements with Apple as illegal state aid. The court's decision requires Ireland to recover €13 billion in taxes from Apple and overturns a previous General Court ruling that was favorable to Apple. This ruling is final and definitive.

Representatives from the Commission and Council will provide insights on the potential impact of the ECJ’s verdict. The Chair of Parliament’s tax subcommittee has described the ruling as "historic," highlighting its significance for European tax policy.

This debate will explore the broader implications of the ruling for EU state aid regulations and international tax practices.

The historic CJEU ruling on the Apple state aid case and its consequences

On Thursday MEPs debate how droughts and extreme weather events pose significant threats to local communities and EU agriculture amid climate change. Increasingly frequent and severe droughts are straining water resources, impacting crop yields, and threatening food security across Europe. Extreme weather events, such as heatwaves and heavy rainfall, further exacerbate these challenges by causing crop failures, soil erosion, and damage to infrastructure.

Addressing these issues is essential not only for protecting the livelihoods of communities dependent on farming and rural economies but also for safeguarding agricultural productivity.

Droughts and extreme weather events as a threat to local communities and EU agriculture in times of climate change

On Wednesday, MEPs will address the worsening situation for women in Afghanistan following the adoption of the law on the “Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice”. This law significantly restricts women's presence in public life, curbing their freedom of movement and expression, and imposing strict regulations on their behavior and dress. The new provisions reinforce existing limitations on women’s rights, such as the requirement for women to fully cover themselves, including their faces, and the ban on traveling without a male relative. Additionally, the law places further constraints on media by prohibiting the publication of images of human beings.

The deteriorating situation of women in Afghanistan due to the recent adoption of the law on the “Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice”

On Wednesday afternoon, MEPs will discuss the EU's response to the mpox outbreak and the need for ongoing action with the European Commission. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the mpox outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and nearby regions a "public health emergency of international concern" on August 14, 2024. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) issued a risk assessment on August 16, stating that the overall risk to Europe's general population is low. Currently, the EU has one antiviral treatment and one vaccine authorized for mpox. The Commission, through the Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority, is managing vaccine procurement and donation to affected African countries. MEPs are expected to urge a coordinated EU response to contain the outbreak in Africa and prevent the virus from spreading to Europe.

EU response to the Mpox outbreak and the need for continuous action

On Wednesday, MEPs review the Hungarian National Card residence permit scheme and its effects on the Schengen area with the Commission and Council. In July, Hungary expanded its National Card residence permit scheme to include nationals from Russia and Belarus. MEPs have expressed concerns that this could lower screening requirements for these individuals, potentially increasing security risks for the Schengen free-travel zone.

On 4 September, Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson confirmed to Parliament’s Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice, and Home Affairs that the Commission is requesting further details from the Hungarian government about this expansion.

The Hungarian “National Card” scheme and its consequences for Schengen and the area of freedom, security and justice

The LUX Audience Award is presented every year by the European Parliament and the European Film Academy, in partnership with the European Commission and Europa Cinemas. The award celebrates European cinema and it aims to engage and debate with the larger European public on important societal subjects reflecting our common European values such as democracy, rule of law, pluralism and freedom of expression.

Press conference on the LUX Audience Award 2025

On Wednesday, MEPs debate the devastating floods in Central and Eastern Europe, which have claimed lives and displaced thousands. The discussion focuses on the EU's preparedness for handling increasingly severe disasters driven by climate change.

The floods, caused by torrential rain, have wreaked havoc across Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary and Austria, with entire neighborhoods submerged and widespread damage to infrastructure. Local authorities are describing the floods as the worst in decades, prompting emergency evacuations and calls for EU financial assistance.

The devastating floods in Central and Eastern Europe, the loss of lives and the EU’s preparedness to act on such disasters exacerbated by climate change

On Tuesday afternoon, MEPs debate the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip and the broader Middle East situation with the Commission.

EU foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell has described the Gaza crisis as “catastrophic both from a humanitarian and political point of view,” with no positive outlook. The European Parliament has consistently called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire and the unconditional release of all hostages. MEPs are also expressing deep concern about the potential for further escalation, particularly in Lebanon.

War in the Gaza Strip and the situation in the Middle-East

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

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

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

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

FEMM

BUDG

JURI

IMCO

LIBE

AFCO

CULT

CONT

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

ITRE

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

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

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

ENVI

TRAN

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

AGRI

PECH

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

Press point by Bernd LANGE (S&D, Germany), Chair of INTA, and Sven SIMON (EPP, Germany), Chair of AFCO, following the confirmation hearing of Maroš ŠEFČOVIČ, Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security; Interinstitutional Relations and Transparency

Committee on Budgetary Control

Confirmation hearing of Maroš ŠEFČOVIČ, Commissioner-designate, Trade and Economic Security & Interinstitutional Relations and Transparency

AFET

PETI

INTA

DEVE

Confirmation hearing of Glenn MICALLEF, Commissioner-designate, Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture and Sport

EMPL

Official visit to Madrid (Spain) - Roberta METSOLA, EP President participates to the exchange on "Growth in a Disrupted World"

Commemoration of the 70th Anniversary of the Passing of Alcide de Gasperi - Address by Roberta METSOLA, EP President

Euroscola

Panel for the Future of Science and Technology – Constituent meeting

Composizione delle commissioni e delle delegazioni

Colmare il divario di talenti dell'UE: sostenere le persone nella transizione digitale e verde per garantire una crescita inclusiva e la competitività in linea con la relazione Draghi

L'abuso delle nuove tecnologie per la manipolazione e la radicalizzazione dei giovani attraverso discorsi di odio e antidemocratici

Ripresa della seduta

Richiesta di revoca dell'immunità

Turno di votazioni

Approvazione del processo verbale della seduta precedente

Protezione degli oceani: minacce persistenti per le aree marine protette nell'UE e loro vantaggi per le comunità costiere

Approvazione del processo verbale della presente seduta e trasmissione dei testi approvati

Calendario delle prossime sedute

Chiusura della seduta

Interruzione della sessione

Plenary session

Award Ceremony of the Daphne Caruana Galizia Prize

EP Plenary session - U-turn on EU bureaucracy: the need to axe unnecessary burden and reporting to unleash competitiveness and innovation

EP Plenary session - Continued war crimes committed by the Russian Federation, notably killing Ukrainian prisoners of war

EP Plenary session - Voting session

EP Plenary session - Tackling the steel crisis: boosting competitive and sustainable European steel and maintaining quality jobs

EP Plenary session - Managing migration in an effective and holistic way through fostering returns

Strasbourg's Plenary session through the lens . Week 43

EP Plenary session - Situation in Tunisia

EP Plenary session - State sponsored terrorism by the Islamic Republic of Iran in light of the recent attacks in Europe

EP Plenary session - People’s Republic of China’s misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan

EP Plenary session - Situation in Azerbaijan, violation of human rights and international law and relations with Armenia

Quaestors new mandate ceremony

EP Plenary session - Guidelines for employment policies in member states

EP Buildings in Strasbourg.

Conference of Committee Chairs meeting

EP Plenary session - Situation of animal health in Europe: how to prevent and prepare for future sanitary crises in agriculture

EP Plenary session - Protection of European journalists reporting on Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine

Screening of the film ' All Static & Noise ' marking the 10 years anniversary of the imprisonment of Sakharov Prize Laureate Ilham Tohti

EP Plenary session - General budget of the European Union for the financial year 2025 – all sections

Michael MCGRATH, European Commissioner-designate for Democracy, Justice and the Rule of Law of the VON DER LEYEN Commission, is heard by the Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE), Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO) and Legal Affairs (JURI) Committees. Committees on Constitutional Affairs (AFCO), Culture and Education (CULT), Budgets (BUDG), Budgetary Control (CONT) and Women’s Rights and Gender Equality (FEMM) are also invited to participate as joint committees.Questions and Answers.

Confirmation hearing of Michael MCGRATH, European Commissioner-designate for Democracy, Justice and the Rule of Law: Questions / Answers (Part 1 - Political groups coordinators)

Michael MCGRATH, European Commissioner-designate for Democracy, Justice and the Rule of Law of the VON DER LEYEN Commission, is heard by the Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE), Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO) and Legal Affairs (JURI) Committees. Committees on Constitutional Affairs (AFCO), Culture and Education (CULT), Budgets (BUDG), Budgetary Control (CONT) and Women’s Rights and Gender Equality (FEMM) are also invited to participate as joint committees. Opening statement. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Confirmation hearing of Michael MCGRATH, European Commissioner-designate for Democracy, Justice and the Rule of Law: Opening statement by the Commissioner-designate

Michael MCGRATH, European Commissioner-designate for Democracy, Justice and the Rule of Law of the VON DER LEYEN Commission, is heard by the Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE), Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO) and Legal Affairs (JURI) Committees. Committees on Constitutional Affairs (AFCO), Culture and Education (CULT), Budgets (BUDG), Budgetary Control (CONT) and Women’s Rights and Gender Equality (FEMM) are also invited to participate as joint committees. Arrivals and opening statements by Javier ZARZALEJOS (EPP, ES), Anna CAVAZZINI (Greens/EFA, DE) and Ilhan KYUCHYUK (Renew, BG).

Confirmation hearing of Michael MCGRATH, European Commissioner-designate for Democracy, Justice and the Rule of Law: arrivals and opening statements by Committees Chairs

Ambience shots of the Confirmation hearing of Michael MCGRATH, European Commissioner-designate for Democracy, Justice and the Rule of Law.

Confirmation hearing of Michael MCGRATH, European Commissioner-designate for Democracy, Justice and the Rule of Law: ambience shots

Michael McGrath was Irish Minister for Finance from 2022 to 2024, and he is now the European Commissioner-designate for Democracy, Justice and the Rule of Law, for the von der Leyen Commission II. This stockshot illustrates the participation of Michael McGrath in the meetings of the EU Council from 2023 to 2024 and contains new footage filmed on 17/10/2024 in his office in Charlemagne building.

Memoclip: Michael McGrath, European Commissioner-designate for Democracy, Justice and the Rule of Law

Ekaterina ZAHARIEVA, European Commissioner-designate for Startups, Research and Innovation, of the VON DER LEYEN Commission was heard by the Committee on Culture and Education (CULT) of the European Parliament. After the confirmation hearing, she speaks to the press. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Press point by Ekaterina ZAHARIEVA, European Commissioner-designate for Startups, Research and Innovation

Ekaterina ZAHARIEVA, European Commissioner-designate for Startups, Research and Innovation, of the VON DER LEYEN Commission is heard by the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE) of the European Parliament. Committee on Culture and Education (CULT) participates as joint committee. At the end of the confirmation hearing, Ekaterina ZAHARIEVA makes a closing statement followed by the one from the Committee Chair. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Confirmation hearing of Ekaterina ZAHARIEVA, European Commissioner-designate for Startups, Research and Innovation: closing statement by Ekaterina ZAHARIEVA and Committee Chair

Ekaterina ZAHARIEVA, European Commissioner-designate for Startups, Research and Innovation, of the VON DER LEYEN Commission is heard by the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE) of the European Parliament. Committee on Culture and Education (CULT) participates as joint committee. During the confirmation hearing, Ekaterina ZAHARIEVA answers questions by committee members.

Confirmation hearing of Ekaterina ZAHARIEVA, European Commissioner-designate for Startups, Research and Innovation: questions / answers (part 5 - ITRE Members)

Confirmation hearing of Ekaterina ZAHARIEVA, European Commissioner-designate for Startups, Research and Innovation: questions / answers (part 4)

Confirmation hearing of Ekaterina ZAHARIEVA, European Commissioner-designate for Startups, Research and Innovation: questions / answers (part 3)

Confirmation hearing of Ekaterina ZAHARIEVA, European Commissioner-designate for Startups, Research and Innovation: questions / answers (part 2)

Confirmation hearing of Ekaterina ZAHARIEVA, European Commissioner-designate for Startups, Research and Innovation: questions / answers (Part 1 - Political groups coordinators)

Ekaterina ZAHARIEVA, European Commissioner-designate for Startups, Research and Innovation, of the VON DER LEYEN Commission is heard by the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE) of the European Parliament. Committee on Culture and Education (CULT) participates as joint committee. During the confirmation hearing, Ekaterina ZAHARIEVA gives an opening speech. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Confirmation hearing of Ekaterina ZAHARIEVA, European Commissioner-designate for Startups, Research and Innovation: opening statement by the Commissioner-designate

Ekaterina ZAHARIEVA, European Commissioner-designate for Startups, Research and Innovation, of the VON DER LEYEN Commission is heard by the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE) of the European Parliament. Committee on Culture and Education (CULT) participates as joint committee. Ambiance of the arrivals and opening statements by Borys BUDKA, Chair of Committee on Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE) who asked for a minute of silence in memory of the victims of the deadly floods in Valencia. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Confirmation hearing of Ekaterina ZAHARIEVA, European Commissioner-designate for Startups, Research and Innovation: arrivals and opening statement by Borys BUDKA, ITRE Chair

This news item shows ambience shots of the confirmation hearing of Ekaterina ZAHARIEVA, European Commissioner-designate for Startups, Research and Innovation, such as the arrival of the Commissioner-designate Ekaterina ZAHARIEVA, questions by MEPs, media and journalists. The European Parliament invites Commissioner-designate Ekaterina ZAHARIEVA to public hearing to establish if she is suitable for the portfolio on Start-ups, Research and Innovation. Ekaterina ZAHARIEVA, European Commissioner-designate, replies to written questions ahead of the meeting, makes a short introduction at the start of the hearing and after that, answers oral questions from MEPs.

Confirmation hearing of Ekaterina ZAHARIEVA, European Commissioner-designate for Startups, Research and Innovation: ambience shots

Ekaterina Zaharieva was Bulgarian Deputy Prime Minister in charge of Judiciary reforms and Minister for Foreign Affairs from 2017 to 2021 and she is currently a Member of the Bulgarian National Assembly. She is now European Commissioner-designate for Startups, Research and Innovation, for the von der Leyen Commission II. This stockshot illustrates the participation of Ekaterina Zaharieva in the meetings of the EU Council in 2018 and contains new footage in her office in Charlemagne, filmed on 29/10/2024.

Memoclip: Ekaterina Zaharieva, European Commissioner-designate for Startups, Research and Innovation

Christophe HANSEN, Commissioner-designate for Agriculture and Food of the VON DER LEYEN Commission, is heard by the Agriculture and Rural Development Committee (AGRI). Committees on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI ) and on Fisheries (PECH) are also invited to participate as joint committees. Closing statement by Commissioner-designate and Committees Chairs. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Confirmation hearing of Christophe HANSEN, Commissioner-designate for Agriculture and Food: Closing statement by Commissioner-designate and AGRI Committee Chair

Christophe HANSEN, Commissioner-designate for Agriculture and Food of the VON DER LEYEN Commission, is heard by the Agriculture and Rural Development Committee (AGRI). Committees on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI ) and on Fisheries (PECH) are also invited to participate as joint committees. Questions and answers.

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