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.

Nieuwsflits – 11/03/2025 - Nederlands

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.

Nieuwsflits – 10/03/2025 - Nederlands

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.

Nieuwsflits – 07/03/2025 - Nederlands

Internationale Vrouwendag vindt zijn oorsprong in de eerste arbeidersbewegingen van de jaren 1900. Het is en blijft een dag waarop zowel de strijd voor vrouwenrechten wordt herdacht als de vooruitgang op het gebied van gendergelijkheid wordt gevierd. Het Europees Parlement is een van de meest uitgesproken voorvechters van gendergelijkheid binnen de EU. Het heeft belangrijke resoluties en wetten aangenomen om de rechten van vrouwen te beschermen, gelijke kansen te bevorderen en discriminatie te bestrijden.

Internationale Vrouwendag

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.

Nieuwsflits – 06/03/2025 - Nederlands

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.

Nieuwsflits – 05/03/2025 - Nederlands

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.

Nieuwsflits – 04/03/2025 - Nederlands

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.

Nieuwsflits – 03/03/2025 - Nederlands

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.

Nieuwsflits – 28/02/2025 - Nederlands

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

Nieuwsflits – 27/02/2025 - Nederlands

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

Nieuwsflits – 26/02/2025 - Nederlands

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

Nieuwsflits – 25/02/2025 - Nederlands

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

Nieuwsflits – 24/02/2025 - Nederlands

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

Nieuwsflits – 21/02/2025 - Nederlands

In het eerste halfjaar van 2024 zijn in de EU meer dan 513 000 asielaanvragen ingediend. Een op de drie asielzoekers is een vrouw of een meisje. De EU zet zich in om de mensenrechtenproblemen aan te pakken die deze vrouwen en meisjes tijdens asielprocedures ondervinden. Zo wordt in het asielstelsel van de EU rekening gehouden met gendergevoelige elementen en erkent het Hof van Justitie van de Europese Unie gendergerelateerd geweld als reden om asiel te verlenen. Maar ondanks deze verbeteringen, zijn er nog meer inspanningen nodig.

De genderdimensie van asielaanvragen in de EU

At a glance: during European Parliamentary Week, former European Central Bank President Mario Draghi calls for urgent action to strengthen Europe’s competitiveness; the EU strikes a deal to cut food and textile waste by 2030; and the Committee on Foreign Affairs kicks off its new term with global policy talks.

Nieuwsflits – 20/02/2025 - Nederlands

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

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

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

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

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

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

Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament 2022-2024

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

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

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

Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament 2024-2027

France is a semi-presidential republic with a head of government - the prime minister - appointed by the president who is the directly elected head of state.

France has been a member of the eurozone since 1 January 1999 and part of the Schengen area since 26 March 1995

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EU  - France

The policies of the EU on climate and energy are described, as well as the challenges that must be faced in order to achieve the Paris Agreement target of keeping the increase in global temperature well below 2°C and to pursue efforts to achieve 1.5°C.

The EU faces major challenges from the increased threats of climate change, with serious consequences in the energy sector, where urgent issues are arising concerning the national production mix of each Member State. The renewable energy share needs to be increased, and energy efficiency needs to be improved.

Climate change (2019-2020)

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

Climate change remains a key challenge. The EU and the European Parliament are working to ensure a more sustainable society and economy through ambitious policies at home and close cooperation with international partners. It is already on track to meet its greenhouse gas emissions reduction target for 2020, and has put forward a plan to further cut emissions by at least 55% by 2030.

By 2050, Europe aims to become the world’s first climate-neutral continent. Alongside reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the EU is also taking action to adapt to the impacts of climate change. By 2050, Europe aims to be a climate-resilient society. Climate action is at the heart of the European Green Deal – an ambitious package of measures ranging from drastically cutting greenhouse gas emissions, to investing in cutting-edge research and innovation, to preserving Europe’s natural environment.

Climate change

Have a look at stockshots (from 2021 onwards) with illustrative pre-edited broadcast quality video footage. These editable stockshots are clean (raw), with natural sound (no voice-over), produced to illustrate priority EU dossiers and parliamentary work. They are intended to help audiovisual media produce their own programs, for example, editing of news reports or documentaries.

Infoclips - Illustrative footage

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

European security and defence

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

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

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

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

Solidarity with Ukraine

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

 

Main results

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

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

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

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

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

Special European Council, 6 March 2025

Malta joined the European Union 1st May 2004 and it has been a member of the Schengen area since 21st December 2007.

Malta is a single-chamber parliamentary republic with a head of government - the prime minister - and a head of state - the president - whose role is largely ceremonial. The country is divided into 5 regions. Each has its own regional committee, which serves as the intermediary between local and national government.

There are 6 members of the European Parliament from Malta.

EU - Malta

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

 

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

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

On this occassion, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, leader of Belarus’ democratic forces, and three other Belarusian and Ukrainian women fighting for freedom, peace and justice in their countries will address MEPs on Tuesday at noon.

International Women’s Day

Exposing and eradicating discrimination on the grounds of gender and sex remains a priority for the European Parliament. Through the&nbsp;FEMM Committee and plenary debates, MEPs frequently discuss&nbsp;the impact on women of social and economic changes.

The European Parliament aims to address and denounce events and policy that breach or threaten the rights of women,&nbsp;both within the EU and abroad.

During the last week of October 2023, the European Parliament holds its fourth European Gender Equality Week,&nbsp;at the initiative of the Women’s Rights Committee. Several committees will hold debates with a gender perspective to discuss policy shortcomings and achievements, and how to advance women's rights in all EU policy areas.

Women's rights

Mario&nbsp;Draghi, formerly the President of the European Central Bank and Prime Minister of Italy, was tasked by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen with presenting ideas on the future of European competitiveness. The report calls the challenge facing policy makers an “existential” one and warns that procrastination will lead to hard choices having to be made. It proposes far-reaching changes to numerous areas such as an “unprecedented” boost to public investment, including through the issuance of new EU common debt, a reform of the EU’s cohesion policy, an overhaul of competition policy, and a new industrial policy with at its core a strategy for reducing Europe’s high energy prices.

European competitiveness

The European Union has been an advocate of animal welfare for more than 40 years and is widely recognised as a global leader, with some of the world’s best animal welfare standards. EU rules have also positively influenced legislation in non-EU countries. They mainly concern farm animals (on the farm, during transport and at slaughter), but also wildlife, laboratory animals and pets. In December 2021, Parliament’s Committee of Inquiry on the Protection of Animals during Transport (ANIT) wrapped up its work of 18 months, concluding that EU animal welfare rules are not always complied with in member states - and do not fully take into account animals’ different transport needs. The most obvious violations include a lack of headroom, water or food supply for transported animals, the shipping of animals unfit for transport and overcrowding. Vehicles that are inappropriate for transporting animals are being used, and transport sometimes take place under extreme temperature and extended journey times. To remedy the situation, the draft recommendations call on the EU Commission to update the current EU rules, to establish limits on journey time for all animal species and ages, ban the transport of very young animals below the age of 35 days, and bolster controls on live animal export. MEPs also advocate a transition to a more efficient and ethical system, that favours the transport of semen and embryos over breeding stock, and carcasses and meat over animals being moved for slaughter.

Animal welfare

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

EP President, Roberta METSOLA has a bilateral meeting with the guests from International Women's Day Celebration

EP President, Roberta METSOLA has a bilateral meeting with the guests of the International Women's Day Celebration

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

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

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

Last minute briefing on March EP Plenary

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

Pre session briefing on March EP Plenary

Roberta METSOLA, EP President Official visit to Malta

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

Special European Council

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

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

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

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

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

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

3 years anniversary of Russian aggression against Ukraine

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

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

European Parliamentary Week

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

Presentation of Euronet DIANE — the European online information network at the European Parliament in Strasbourg

Plenary session in Strasbourg in February 1980

Plenary session in Strasbourg in February 1980Simone VEIL EP President

The European Parliament Vice President Basil de FERRANTI during a session in Strasbourg in February 1980.

Simone VEIL EP President 1979-1982 and the MEP Richard BALFE during a session in Strasbourg on February 1980.

Meeting at the European Parliament in Strasbourg in February 1980

Batteries are vital to the EU’s clean energy transition, industrial future, and strategic autonomy. While the sector benefits from strong R&D support, it faces challenges such as reliance on third countries, high costs, and competition from regions with lower environmental standards. Sustainable value chains and recycling could help, but uncertainty remains over the EU’s ability to meet future demand. Rising costs, market slowdowns, and gigafactory setbacks, including Northvolt’s collapse, raise concerns. To secure a resilient battery supply chain, the EU focuses on strategic coordination, regulatory frameworks, and funding, offering key lessons for industrial policy.

Battery supply chain

The digital information sphere has become the main space for public debate, shaping opinions and access to information. In the past decade, it has also become a geostrategic battleground, with authoritarian states manipulating public opinion to weaken democracies. At the same time, corporate rivalry over emerging technologies, particularly AI, has intensified. AI-driven disinformation poses growing risks to democratic information ecosystems. Strengthening information integrity is crucial to safeguarding human rights and freedom of expression. Multilateral efforts to enhance resilience align with the EU’s planned European Democracy Shield, building on existing measures and fostering new partnerships.

Information Manipulation and the EU response

The European elections are the largest transnational elections in the world. There are some common rules that apply in all EU countries but many details vary by country.


Election days range from Thursday 6 June to Sunday 9 June and it is up to each country to decide when and how they organise the vote.


The number of MEPs elected varies between countries: bigger countries get more seats than smaller ones. Due to changes in the size of the population, some EU countries will get extra seats in the upcoming elections compared to the outgoing Parliament. In total 15 seats will be added.


There are also differences in other aspects of voting, for example regarding the minimum voting age or the rules about voting from abroad.

EU Elections 2024

The European elections are the largest transnational elections in the world. There are some common rules that apply in all EU countries but many details vary by country.


Election days range from Thursday 6 June to Sunday 9 June and it is up to each country to decide when and how they organise the vote.

Map European elections 2024

Online shopping, take-away food, coffee to go... Packaging waste is growing. Find out how much is being produced and how the EU wants to reverse the trend

How to reduce packaging waste in the EU

With war having returned to the European continent, measuring the level of threats to peace, security and democracy around the world – as the 'Normandy Index' does – is more important than ever. The annual Index was presented for the first time at the Normandy Peace Forum in June 2019, as a result of a partnership between the European Parliament and the Region of Normandy. The Index has been designed and prepared by the European Parliamentary Research Service (EPRS), in conjunction with and on the basis of data provided by the Institute for Economics and Peace. This paper sets out the findings of the 2023 exercise, which draws on data compiled in 2022, and explains how the Index can be used to compare peace – defined on the basis of a given country's performance against a range of predetermined threats – across countries and regions. It is complemented by 61 individual country case studies, derived from the Index. The paper forms part of the EPRS contribution to the 2023 Normandy World Peace Foru

Mapping threats to peace and democracy worldwide: Normandy Index 2023

Discover key figures about the repatriation of migrants and proposed changes to EU law.
The EU’s New Pact on Migration and Asylum includes new rules and the revision of existing legislation, such as the Return Directive.
In a draft resolution on the Return Directive adopted in December 2020, MEPs stressed the importance of protecting individual fundamental rights as well as respect for procedural safeguards.

Repatriation: how many migrants in the EU are sent back?

Over the past 30 years the single market has brought unity and opportunities to Europeans.

30 years of EU single market: benefits and challenges

Find out about the top cyber threats in 2022, the most affected sectors and the impact of the war in Ukraine.

The digital transformation has inevitably led to new cybersecurity threats. During the coronavirus pandemic, companies had to adapt to remote working and this created more possibilities for cybercriminals. The war in Ukraine has also affected cybersecurity.

In response to the evolution of cybersecurity threats, Parliament adopted a new EU directive introducing harmonised measures across the EU, including on the protection of essential sectors.

Cybersecurity: main and emerging threats

With fast fashion, the quantity of clothes produced and thrown away has boomed. Find out more about the environmental impact and what the EU is doing about it.

Fast fashion is the constant provision of new styles at very low prices.

To tackle the impact on the environment, the EU wants to reduce textile waste and increase the life cycle and recycling of textiles. This is part of the plan to achieve a circular economy by 2050.

The impact of textile production and waste on the environment

Find out about the economic inequalities that continue to persist between women and men in the EU.

It has been more than 25 years since the adoption of the UN’s Beijing Declaration, which aims to promote equality between men and women. The same goal lies behind the creation of UN Women - dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women - and the inclusion of gender equality in the Sustainable Development Goals.
s
So where do we stand? Progress has been made, but inequality between men and women persists, including on the labour market. On average, women in the EU are paid less than men.

Gender pay gap in Europe: facts and figures

Every year 2.2 billion tonnes of waste are generated in the EU. More than a quarter of it (27%) is municipal waste: everyday waste collected and treated by municipalities, which is mainly generated by households. Data shows that the amount of waste and the way it is managed varies a lot across EU countries, but there has been a shift to more recycling and less landfilling.

To reduce waste and its impact on the environment, the EU has adopted ambitious targets on recycling and landfill and is working on packaging waste. The goal is to promote the shift towards a more sustainable model known as the circular economy.

Waste management in the EU: infographic with facts and figures

Euroscola

Subcommittee on Human Rights Ordinary meeting ICM

DROI

Subcommittee on Tax Matters Extraordinary meeting EU Tax Symposium 2025 - Strengthening competitiveness and fairness to build prosperity

FISC

Sakharov Prize - A Dialogue on Human Rights

Delegation to the Africa-EU Parliamentary Assembly Ordinary Meeting

DAFR

Panel for the Future of Science and Technology panel

Delegation to the OACPS-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly ORDINARY MEETING

DACP

EP Plenary session - European Social Fund Plus post-2027

EP Plenary session - Establishing the Reform and Growth Facility for the Republic of Moldova

EP Plenary session - Cutting red tape and simplifying business in the EU: the first Omnibus proposals

Meeting of the European Parliament's Bureau

EP Plenary session - Supporting the EU’s most vulnerable regions against devastating effects of climate change, such as the recent cyclone hitting La Reunion

EP Plenary session - Resumption of session and order of business

Last minute briefing

Visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President to Malta - Speech at 'A Women's Archive at the University of Malta'

Visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President to Malta - Participation at the event 'Celebrating Women who push Boundaries'

Visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President to Malta - Visit to St. Augustine College

Pre session briefing

Visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President to Malta - Visit to San Anton School

17th EU - Mongolia Inter-Parliamentary Meeting

International Women’s Day 2025 - A gender-sensitive Parliament: challenges and opportunities for the coming year

Special European Council - Meeting with Christian STOCKER, Austrian Federal Chancellor

LIBE - Exchange of views on EU-Latin America cooperation on security matters and the role of parliamentary diplomacy

International Women’s Day 2025 - FEMM Inter-parliamentary Committee ' Strengthening the Women, Peace and Security Agenda – Upholding Women’s Rights in Defence, Security and Peace Building '

Roberta METSOLA, President of the European Parliament, gives an opening statement on the upcoming Day of Solidarity with Belarus. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Opening statement by Roberta METSOLA, EP President on the upcoming Day of Solidarity with Belarus

Roberta METSOLA, President of the European Parliament, gives an opening statement on 35th anniversary of the Statehood of the Baltic countries. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Opening statement by Roberta METSOLA, EP President on the 35th anniversaries of the Baltic states' assertion of state continuity

Roberta METSOLA, President of the European Parliament, gives an opening statement on the tragic railway accident in Greece. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Opening statement by Roberta METSOLA, EP President on the tragic railway accident in Greece

Exterior and interior shots of the EP during the EP Plenary session (10-13/3) in Strasbourg.

EP Plenary session (10-13/3): editing shots (exterior and interior shots of the EP)

Roberta METSOLA, President of the European Parliament, participates at the Women’s Day Event organised by EPLO Valletta. This news item shows extracts from President Metsola answering questions from the moderator and the public.

Visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President to Malta: extracts from the Women’s Day Event organised by EPLO Valletta

Roberta METSOLA, President of the European Parliament, gives a speech at the University of Malta Valletta Campus dutring her official visit to Malta. This news item shows extracts from the speech of President Metsola.

Visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President to Malta: extracts from the speech at the University of Malta Valletta Campus (Malta)

Roberta METSOLA, EP President, pays a visit to Malta: extracts from the meeting at San Anton School, Mġarr and at St Augustine College, Pietà.

Visit by Roberta METSOLA, EP President to Malta: extracts from the meeting at San Anton School, Mġarr (Malta) and at St Augustine College, Pietà (Malta)

Roberta METSOLA, EP President makes a statement before entering the special summit to discuss continued support for Ukraine and European defence. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Doorstep by Roberta METSOLA, EP President, Special European Council, 6 March 2025

Renew Europe leaders meet ahead of the Special European Council, where EU leaders discuss the continued support for Ukraine and European defence. Valerier HAYER, leader of EP renew group welcome Stephane SEJOURNE, Hadja LAHBIB, Karin KNEISSL. Arrival of Emmanuel MARON, French President

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

EPP leaders meet ahead of the Special European Council, where EU leaders discuss the continued support for Ukraine and European defence.

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

PES leaders meet ahead of the Special European Council, where EU leaders discuss the continued support for Ukraine and European defence.

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

On the 6th March 2025, European leaders meet in Brussels for a special summit to discuss continued support for Ukraine and European defence. Extracts from the participation of Roberta METSOLA, EP President, to the summit.

Roberta METSOLA, EP President, participates at the Special European Council meeting: extracts from the arrival, doorstep and roundtable

The 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 includes the introductory remarks by Lina GÁLVEZ, Chair of the Committee on Women's Rights and Gender Equality, Hadja LAHBIB, Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management, and by Ms Katarzyna KOTULA, Minister of Equality of Poland in remote participation. The focus on 'Strengthening the Women, Peace, and Security Agenda – Upholding Women's Rights in Defence, Security, and Peacebuilding".

International Women's Day 2025: extracts from the Interparliamentary committee meeting

Arrivals and roundtable of the meeting of the EP Conference of Presidents in the presence of Ursula VON DER LEYEN, President of the European Commission. The aim of this meeting is to discuss the preparation of the Special European Council meeting of 6 March 2025 and the ReArm Europe Plan

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

EP President Roberta METSOLA delivers a speech on defence and security at the European Policy Center (EPC) Thought Leadership Forum. This transcription is a result of an automatic process. Please check against delivery.

Speech by Roberta METSOLA, EP President at the European Policy Center (EPC) Thought Leadership Forum on defence and security

The infoclip illustrates an user navigating a cryptocurrency platform, physical cryptocoins, alongside instant payment services like Revolut and Bizum; aerial drone views of the European Central Bank (ECB) headquarters, followed by scenes of President Christine Lagarde leading a press conference at the ECB (provided by the European Central Bank, mandatory to include the source) and participating in the European Parliament in Strasbourg. The video also includes footage from the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (Images free of charge for journalistic purposes using the reference “Deutsche Börse AG”. Use for own advertising purposes is not permitted. For more information, contact media-relations@deutsche-boerse.com), from the money creation process, people withdrawing cash from ATMs, and people paying using mobile phones and contactless cards.

Infoclip: Cryptocurrencies, new and traditional means of payments and monetary policy

This infoclip illustrates women in different roles in defence, peacekeeping and peace advocacy. The footage shows a female peacekeeper in Mali, HRH Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden visiting a military base and its surroundings, and women with different functions in defence.

Infoclip: Women in defence, peacekeeping and peace advocacy

Women continue to face gender imbalances in certain professions and are not always equally represented across industries. This infoclip includes illustrations of women making significant contributions in key roles across various sectors, including scientific and artificial intelligence research, medicine, the maritime industry, and academia.

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