EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT update

 

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08-10-2025 Plenary session EP TODAY       Wednesday 8 October Russian drone airspace violations The recent spate of Russian incursions into EU airspace and the need for a united EU response will dominate the morning’s proceedings, in a key debate starting at 9.00. MEPs will be joined by Danish European Affairs Minister Marie Bjerre for the Council and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to discuss the latest incidents in Polish and Estonian airspace. Drones of unidentified origin have also caused disturbances at and around Danish and German civilian airports and military bases. MEPs will vote on a resolution on Thursday. Snjezana KOBESCAK SMODIS (+32) 470 96 08 19 @EP_ForeignAff Greenland premier Jens-Frederik Nielsen Jens-Frederik Nielsen, leader of Greenland’s government since April, will address MEPs in a formal sitting starting at noon. An autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, Greenland has found itself at the centre of geopolitical tensions between the US and Europe, with US president Donald Trump toying with annexing the territory. Greenlandic and Danish authorities have consistently stressed Greenland’s right to self-determination and that Greenland is “not for sale”. EP President Metsola and Mr Nielsen will hold a press point before the address to plenary, at around 11.50 in the protocol area. Thomas HAAHR (+32) 470 88 09 87 @EP_ForeignAff EU digital sovereignty A debate on preserving the EU’s digital autonomy, with Danish European Affairs Minister Marie Bjerre and European Commission Executive Vice-President for Technological Sovereignty, Security, and Democracy, Henna Virkunnen, will start at about 14.30. The focus is likely to be on the need to build a secure and self-reliant digital economy and to implement the EU’s digital rules in full, in the face of pressure from the US to bend to its standards. MEPs are expected to call on the Commission to make full use of its regulatory powers, to maintain the highest standards for EU citizens and businesses. Yasmina YAKIMOVA (+32) 470 88 10 60 @EP_SingleMarket In brief Tax simplification. In a debate with Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra starting at about 17.00, MEPs will discuss their proposals for reforms to break down barriers in the EU’s tax architecture. A resolution will be put to a vote on Thursday at noon. Automotive sector. Focusing on ‘Europe’s automotive future’ this part-session’s topical debate, proposed by the group of European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR), with Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra, will start at about 13.30, after the votes. Iran. The EU’s strategy on the nuclear threat posed by Iran and the reinstatement of EU sanctions will be the subject of an evening debate with Commissioner Jessika Roswall and Danish European Affairs Minister Marie Bjerre for the Council. Human rights. In evening debates with Jessika Roswall, MEPs will discuss the following cases: the arbitrary detention of EU citizens Javier Marañón Montero and David Rodríguez Ballesta in Equatorial Guinea; the humanitarian and security situation in Haiti, in particular the rising power of criminal gangs and the recent massacre in Cabaret; and the 10th anniversary of the detention of jailed Swedish publisher Gui Minhai in China. Three separate resolutions will be put to a plenary vote on Thursday. Votes At noon, MEPs will vote, among others, on: -changes to simplify certain common agricultural policy regulations; -measures to strengthen farmers’ position in the food supply chain; -the 2025-2029 fisheries partnership agreement with Côte d’Ivoire; -guidelines for member states’ employment policies; -two applications to mobilise the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, concerning Germany and Belgium, and -the EU’s political strategy for Latin America. Live coverage of the plenary session can be found on Parliament’s webstreaming site and on EbS+. For detailed information on the session, please also see our newsletter and the detailed agenda. Find more information regarding plenary. Press release 06-10-2025 SEDE   ITRE   CANCELLED - European Defence Industry Programme: press conference       Following the latest round of negotiations with Council, lead MEPs François-Xavier Bellamy and Raphaël Glucksmann will answer questions from journalists on Wednesday, 9h When: Wednesday 8 October, 9.00 - 9.30 Where: European Parliament, Strasbourg, Daphne Caruana Galizia room - WEISS N -1/201 The press conference will be given by the rapporteurs from the Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE) committee, François-Xavier Bellamy (EPP, France) and from the Security and Defence (SEDE) committee, Raphaël Glucksmann (S&D, France). The two committees are working jointy on the legislation. The European Defense Industry Programme (EDIP) aims to strengthen the European defence sector and further integrate the EU defence industry, by bridging the gap between short-term emergency measures, such as the Act in Support of Ammunition Production (ASAP) and the European Defence Industry Reinforcement through Common Procurement Act (EDIRPA), that have been implemented since 2023 and will end in 2025, and a more structural, long-term approach. The press conference will take place in the press room and via interactio. Journalists wishing to actively participate and ask questions, please connect via Interactio by using this link. The press conference will also be webstreamed live and recorded on Parliament’s Multimedia Centre. Information for the media - Use Interactio to ask questions Interactio is supported on Mac/Windows (with the Google Chrome browser) and Ipad (with the Safari browser). When connecting, enter your name and the media you are representing in the first name / last name fields. For better sound quality, use headphones and a microphone. Journalists who have never used Interactio before are asked to connect 30 minutes before the start of the press conference to perform a connection test. IT assistance can be provided if necessary. For more details, check the connection guidelines and recommendations for remote speakers. Further information  Committee on Industry, Research and Energy  Committee on Security and Defence  François-Xavier Bellamy (EPP, FR)  Raphaël Glucksmann (S&D, FR) Δελτίο Τύπου 07-10-2025 CULT   Βραβείο Κοινού LUX 2026: ανακοινώθηκαν στο Ευρωπαϊκό Κοινοβούλιο οι υποψηφιότητες       Οι ταινίες Christy, Sorda, It Was Just An Accident, Love Me Tender και Sentimental Value θα διαγωνιστούν για το Βραβείο Κοινού LUX 2026, όπως ανακοινώθηκε την Τρίτη στο Στρασβούργο. «Οι ταινίες αυτές αντικατοπτρίζουν τη δέσμευση του Ευρωπαϊκού Κοινοβουλίου να μεταδώσει τις αξίες πάνω στις οποίες βασίζεται το ευρωπαϊκό εγχείρημα. Φέρνουν στο προσκήνιο ορισμένες από τις μεγαλύτερες κοινωνικές και πολιτικές προκλήσεις του σήμερα, όπως η σημασία της δημοκρατίας και της ελευθερίας, η ανάγκη αντιμετώπισης κοινωνικοοικονομικών αποκλεισμών και η σημασία της επένδυσης στην εκπαίδευση και την ψυχική υγεία για τους νέους μας. Οι ταινίες αγγίζουν θεματικές που σχετίζονται με το έργο του Κοινοβουλίου, όπως τα δικαιώματα των ατόμων με αναπηρία και την ανάγκη για καλύτερη ένταξη, τα ανθρώπινα δικαιώματα, τα διασυνοριακά δικαιώματα των γονέων και την καταπολέμηση των διακρίσεων στο οικογενειακό δίκαιο. Πάνω απ’ όλα, μας υπενθυμίζουν την πολυμορφία μας», δήλωσε η πρόεδρος του Ευρωπαϊκού Κοινοβουλίου, Roberta Metsola. «Οι υποψήφιες ταινίες για το βραβείο του Ευρωπαϊκού Κοινοβουλίου μας υπενθυμίζουν την πολυμορφία που υπάρχει στις οικογένειές μας, η κάθε μία με τις δικές της δομές, εντάσεις και συγκρούσεις. Μερικές φορές με ιδιαίτερα συγκινητικές αφηγήσεις, αυτές οι πέντε ταινίες καταδεικνύουν την ανάγκη για έναν ισχυρό προϋπολογισμό για τον πολιτισμό ως βασικό μέσο για δυνατότερες, δικαιότερες και πιο συμπεριληπτικές δημοκρατίες», πρόσθεσε η αρμόδια αντιπρόεδρος για το Βραβείο Κοινού LUX, Sabine Verheyen. «Πολλές από τις κοινοβουλευτικές εκθέσεις μας έχουν αναδείξει τη σχέση μεταξύ πολιτιστικής και δημοκρατικής συμμετοχής. Στην Επιτροπή Πολιτισμού και Παιδείας, εργαζόμαστε για να εξασφαλίσουμε καλύτερη πρόσβαση στον πολιτισμό και την πολιτιστική συμμετοχή, καθώς και για να αντιμετωπίσουμε τις προκλήσεις στην εκπαίδευση και στις πολιτικές για τη νεολαία. Υπερασπιζόμαστε επίσης την πολιτιστική κυριαρχία της Ευρώπης και την πολυμορφία της ευρωπαϊκής κινηματογραφικής βιομηχανίας», δήλωσε η πρόεδρος της Επιτροπής Πολιτισμού και Παιδείας Nela Riehl.   Ανακαλύψτε τις ταινίες Christy. Σε σκηνοθεσία του Brendan Canty, η ταινία αφηγείται την ιστορία ενός 17χρονου αγοριού από την Ιρλανδία με το ίδιο όνομα, το οποίο εκδιώκεται από το θετό του σπίτι και αναγκάζεται να ζήσει με τον αποξενωμένο μεγαλύτερο ετεροθαλή αδελφό του. Παρά την δυνητικά αρνητική επιρροή της ευρύτερης οικογένειάς του, ο Christy αρχίζει να κάνει φίλους και να επανασυνδέεται με τις ρίζες του. Καθώς ο αδελφός του προσπαθεί να εξασφαλίσει ένα καλύτερο μέλλον γι’ αυτόν, οι δύο τους βρίσκονται αντιμέτωποι με σκληρές αποφάσεις που δοκιμάζουν τον εύθραυστο δεσμό τους. Sorda. Η Ισπανίδα σκηνοθέτης Eva Libertad αφηγείται την ιστορία της Ángela, μιας κωφής γυναίκας που περιμένει παιδί με τον α(χωρίς αναπηρία) σύντροφο της. Οι φόβοι της Ángela σχετικά με τη μητρότητα και την ικανότητά της να επικοινωνεί και να αλληλεπιδρά με την κόρη της αυξάνονται καθώς έρχεται αντιμέτωπη με την πραγματικότητα της ανατροφής ενός μωρού σε έναν κόσμο που δεν έχει φτιαχτεί για εκείνη. It Was Just An Accident. Σε σκηνοθεσία του βραβευμένου με το Βραβείο Ζαχάρωφ 2012 Jafar Panahi, η ταινία διερευνά την πολιτική καταστολή στο Ιράν μέσα από την ιστορία ενός οδηγού που σκοτώνει έναν σκύλο ενώ οδηγεί τη νύχτα. Έχοντας ακινητοποιηθεί, ο οδηγός πηγαίνει σε ένα συνεργείο, όπου ο πρώην φυλακισμένος διασώστης του πιστεύει ότι είναι ο αξιωματικός που τον βασάνισε. Η ταινία γυρίστηκε χωρίς επίσημη άδεια από τις ιρανικές αρχές. Love Me Tender . Η Γαλλίδα σκηνοθέτης Anna Cazenave Cambet μετέφερε στην οθόνη το βιβλίο της Constance Debré για μια 40χρονη γυναίκα που χάνει την επιμέλεια του γιου της, αφού αποκαλύπτει στον πρώην σύζυγό της ότι έχει ρομαντικές σχέσεις με γυναίκες. Το γεγονός αυτό χρησιμοποιείται εναντίον της στο δικαστήριο, οδηγώντας τον δικαστή να δώσει στον πατέρα την πλήρη επιμέλεια. Η ταινία επικεντρώνεται στον αγώνα της γυναίκας να παραμείνει μητέρα και ελεύθερη γυναίκα. Sentimental Value. Η αγγλικής, νορβηγικής και σουηδικής παραγωγής ταινία του σκηνοθέτη Joachim Trier εξερευνά την πολυπλοκότητα των δυναμικών μέσα σε ένα οικογενειακό περιβάλλον. Δύο αδελφές επανενώνονται με τον άλλοτε διάσημο σκηνοθέτη πατέρα τους, που προσπαθεί να κάνει μια νέα ταινία. Αφού μια από τις κόρες του απορρίπτει έναν ρόλο στην ταινία, τον δίνει σε μία πρόθυμη νεαρή ηθοποιό του Χόλιγουντ. Ξαφνικά, η ήδη περίπλοκη οικογενειακή σχέση αποκτά ένα επιπλέον στοιχείο, με την άφιξη της Αμερικανίδας σταρ.   Προβολές με υπότιτλους Κάνοντας πράξη την απόλυτη δέσμευση του Ευρωπαϊκού Κοινοβουλίου για προσβασιμότητα, για πρώτη φορά, οι υποψήφιες ταινίες θα έχουν λεζάντες («closed captions») και υπότιτλους για κωφούς και βαρήκοους. Θα πραγματοποιηθούν δωρεάν προβολές για τις πέντε ταινίες σε όλες τις χώρες της ΕΕ έως τον Απρίλιο του 2026. Οι πολίτες σε ολόκληρη την Ευρώπη , μπορούν να ψηφίσουν την αγαπημένη τους ταινία στην πλατφόρμα αξιολόγησης του Βραβείου Κοινού LUX. Οι ψήφοι του κοινού θα καθορίσουν κατά 50% την τελική βαθμολογία των ταινιών, σταθμισμένες με τις ψήφους των ευρωβουλευτών. Για την απονομή του βραβείου το 2025, διοργανώθηκαν περισσότερες από 900 προβολές των ταινιών που προκρίθηκαν στην τελική φάση, με συζητήσεις στις οποίες συμμετείχαν περισσότερα από 90.000 θεατές.   Σχετικές πληροφορίες Το Βραβείο Κοινού LUX απονέμεται από το Ευρωπαϊκό Κοινοβούλιο και την Ευρωπαϊκή Ακαδημία Κινηματογράφου, σε συνεργασία με την Ευρωπαϊκή Επιτροπή και το δίκτυο Europa Cinemas, από το 2020. Προάγει τον διάλογο και τη συνεργασία μεταξύ της πολιτικής και του κοινού. Το βραβείο συμπληρώνεται από το πρόγραμμα νέων ταλέντων, το οποίο επιδιώκει τη συμμετοχή νέων επαγγελματιών του κινηματογράφου στην προώθηση των ευρωπαϊκών αξιών και του Βραβείου Κοινού LUX. Σύνδεσμοι  Ιστότοπος του Βραβείου Κοινού LUX  Χρονοδιάγραμμα και διαδικασία αξιολόγησης  Μετάδοση της εναρκτήριας εκδήλωσης παρουσία της προέδρου του Ευρωπαϊκού Κοινοβουλίου Roberta Metsola  Φάκελος επικοινωνίας για το Βραβείο Κοινού LUX  Κέντρο Πολυμέσων του Ευρωπαϊκού Κοινοβουλίου: δωρεάν οπτικοακουστικό υλικό (Βραβείο Κοινού LUX 2026)  Οι φετινές υποψηφιότητες αγγίζουν θέματα όπως η πνευματική υγεία των νέων, η συμπερίληψη και η δημοκρατία © ΕΕ - Ευρωπαϊκό Κοινοβούλιο Press release 07-10-2025 CULT   2026 LUX Audience Award shortlisted films unveiled at the European Parliament       The films Christy, Sorda, It Was Just An Accident, Love Me Tender, and Sentimental Value will compete for the 2026 LUX Audience Award, it was announced this Tuesday in Strasbourg. The five nominated films for the LUX Audience Award were chosen by a panel of film professionals from across EU member states. “Cinema is part of who we are as Europeans. These films embody the European Parliament’s commitment to defending democracy, freedom, and diversity, while addressing the challenges faced by our societies, from inclusion and human rights to young people’s mental health. The LUX Audience Award is about bringing European cinema closer to people, wherever they live, and giving them a chance to see Europe from a different perspective,” said the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola. “This year’s LUX films once again reflect the diversity of our society - with its different structures, tensions and struggles. The selected films move us with powerful, deeply human stories and strong emotions. Together, they testify to the need for a robust cultural budget as a key instrument to build stronger, more inclusive and fairer democracies,” added the vice-president responsible for the LUX Audience Award, Sabine Verheyen. “The LUX Audience Award is a unique tool of cultural and democratic expression. Viewers all over Europe get to elect the best out of a choice of remarkable European films. In the Committee on Culture and Education, we are working to improve access to culture and the conditions for cultural creators. It is the EU’s responsibility to defend the independence of the European cultural sector, and celebrate the diversity of our film industry,” stated the chair of the Committee on Culture and Education Nela Riehl. Discover the films Christy. Directed by Brendan Canty, Christy centres on a 17-year-old Irish boy of the same name who is ousted from his foster home and forced to live with his estranged older half-brother. Despite the potentially negative influence of his extended family, Christy begins making friends and reconnecting with his roots. As his brother tries to secure a better future for him, both are faced with tough decisions that challenge their fragile bond. Sorda. Spanish director Eva Libertad tells the story of Ángela, a deaf woman expecting a child with her hearing partner. Ángela’s fears about motherhood and her ability to communicate and interact with her daughter mount as she confronts the reality of raising a baby in a world not built for her. It Was Just An Accident. Directed by 2012 Sakharov Prize laureate Jafar Panahi, the film explores political repression in Iran through the story of a night driver who kills a dog. Stranded, he goes to a garage, where his rescuer believes him to be the prison officer who tortured him. This film was made without official filming authorisation from the Iranian authorities. Love Me Tender. French director Anna Cazenave Cambet adapted Constance Debré’s book about a 40 year-old woman who loses custody of her son after telling her ex-husband that she has romantic relationships with women. This fact is used against her in court, leading the judge to grant the father full custody. The film centres on the woman’s fight to remain a mother and a free woman. Sentimental Value. The complexities of family dynamics are explored in this English, Norwegian and Swedish-language film from director Joachim Trier. Two sisters are reunited with their father, a once-renowned director trying to make a comeback film. After one of his daughters turns down a role in the film, he gives it to an eager young Hollywood actor. Suddenly, the already complicated family relationship gains an additional element, with the arrival of the American star. Next Steps Free screenings of the five films will take place in all EU countries up until April 2026. In keeping with the European Parliament’s total commitment to accessibility, and for the first time, the shortlisted films will have subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing. Citizens across Europe, as well as the Members of the European Parliament, can vote for their favourite film on the LUX Audience Award rating platform. Their respective votes will each count 50% towards the films’ final scores. A ceremony to announce the 2026 LUX Audience Award laureate will take place at the hemicycle of the European Parliament in Brussels in mid-April 2026. For the 2025 edition of the award, more than 900 screenings of the shortlisted films were organised, with discussions involving more than 90,000 audience members. 2025’s laureate was the film Flow by Gints Zilbalodis. Background The LUX Audience Award has been awarded by the European Parliament and the European Film Academy, in partnership with the European Commission and the Europa Cinemas network, since 2020. It fosters dialogue and engagement between politics and the public. The award is complemented by the Young Talent Programme, which seeks to engage young cinema professionals in the promotion of European values and the LUX Audience Award project. Further information  Press conference to announce the 2026 nominees with VP Sabine Verheyen and chair of the Committee on Culture Nela Riehl  Streaming of the launch event in the presence of European Parliament President Roberta Metsola  LUX Audience Award website  Timeline and rating process  LUX Audience Award communication kit  European Parliament Multimedia Centre: free pictures, videos and audio material: 2026 LUX Audience Award  Committee on Culture and Education  This edition nominees touch upon subjects such youth and mental health, inclusiveness and democracy @EP Press release 07-10-2025 Plenary session   CULT Parliament calls for action to achieve a better European Sport Model     • Ensure good governance with appropriate checks and balances for accountability • Evaluate the impact of foreign investment and multi-ownership on financial integrity European sport • • Strengthen the link between professional and amateur sport for a fairer allocation of resources MEPs want athletes and fans to have a say on the decision-making process of sports federations, and they are opposed to competitive matches being played abroad. In its contribution to the Commission’s new long-term strategy for European sport and physical activity policy, adopted in plenary by 552 votes with 52 against and 35 abstentions, the European Parliament asks all international and national organisations to improve their governance and transparency, and ensure accountability. MEPs want international and national federations, clubs and leagues, to involve fans, athletes, and persons with disabilities in their decisions. They also want them to address “the persistent under representation of women in leadership positions” Identifying threats to the European model In addition to the current challenges, such as “problems of governance, corruption, match-fixing, doping, online piracy and discrimination”, and “excessive commercialisation”, MEPs want the Commission to monitor possible new threats to Europe’s sports sector. Particularly, they ask the Commission to evaluate the impact of increased foreign investment and multi-ownership of clubs on the financial integrity and competitive balance of European sport. They also want sports clubs and federations to avoid organising domestic competitive matches played abroad and state that clubs should be required to release athletes for national team participation. MEPs call on the Commission to provide clear guidelines on how EU law applies to the sports sector, taking into consideration recent European Court of Justice rulings on athlete’s rights and competition law. Protect the rights of athletes and ensuring financial solidarity To help athletes overcome challenges such as insufficient social protection, rising intensity of sports and of sporting calendars, as well as help them to better combine education or employment with their careers, MEPs highlighted the need for a stronger defence of the rights of athletes across all sports, with particular attention to minors. As the gap between the financial elite in professional sport and the grassroots level grows, MEPs ask the Commission to map existing financial solidarity mechanisms and redistribution schemes and to explore the creation of redistribution mechanisms between big and small leagues, clubs or competitions and in different disciplines. Finally, MEPs ask the Commission “to develop accessible and substantial funding schemes for sports clubs and organisations, with clear and accessible mechanisms, ensuring that earmarked funds reach the grassroots level”. Recognising the impact of Erasmus+ in supporting grassroots sports organisations and the citizens, the Parliament asks for a significant increase in funding for sport and physical activity, under this programme. Quote “These challenges affect many sporting disciplines, and their scale and complexity is growing, thereby testing the resilience of the ‘European Sport Model’. This report serves as a call to action. Its timing is critical, as the European Commission is preparing to present its long-term strategy for European sports policy next year. Promoting and supporting sport at all levels is essential - not only for the success of professional competitions but also for fostering a healthier, more active society,” said the rapporteur, Bogdan Andrzej Zdrojewski. Background On 18 March 2025, the European Parliament held a consultation with the European Committee of the Regions, sports federations, teams, and many other organisations. The consultation garnered useful information to help frame the European Sports Model. Contributing 2.12% to the EU’s GDP and providing jobs to nearly six million people, sport sector faces growing challenges that test the resilience of the European Sport Model. Further information  Video recording of debate in plenary (6.10.2025)  Text voted in plenary  Profile of the rapporteur Bogdan Andrzej Zdrojewski (EPP, PL)  Key features of a European Sport Model  Factsheets of the European Union: Sport  Committee on Culture and Education  EPRS study: EU education, youth and sport policy (September 2024)  European Commission webpage: EU funding in the field of sport Comunicado de imprensa 07-10-2025 Sessão plenária   CULT Parliament calls for action to achieve a better European Sport Model     • Ensure good governance with appropriate checks and balances for accountability • Evaluate the impact of foreign investment and multi-ownership on financial integrity European sport • Strengthen the link between professional and amateur sport for a fairer allocation of resources MEPs want athletes and fans to have a say on the decision-making process of sports federations, and they are opposed to competitive matches being played abroad. In its contribution to the Commission’s new long-term strategy for European sport and physical activity policy, adopted in plenary by 552 votes with 52 against and 35 abstentions, the European Parliament asks all international and national organisations to improve their governance and transparency, and ensure accountability. MEPs want international and national federations, clubs and leagues, to involve fans, athletes, and persons with disabilities in their decisions. They also want them to address “the persistent under representation of women in leadership positions”. Identifying threats to the European model In addition to the current challenges, such as “problems of governance, corruption, match-fixing, doping, online piracy and discrimination”, and “excessive commercialisation”, MEPs want the Commission to monitor possible new threats to Europe’s sports sector. Particularly, they want the Commission to evaluate the impact of increased foreign investment and multi-ownership of clubs on the financial integrity and competitive balance of European sport. They also want sports clubs and federations to avoid organising domestic competitive matches played abroad and state that clubs should be required to release . MEPs also call on the Commission to provide clear guidelines on how EU law applies to the sports sector, taking into consideration recent European Court of Justice rulings on athlete’s rights and competition law. Protect the rights of athletes and ensuring financial solidarity To help athletes overcome challenges such as insufficient social protection, rising intensity of sports and of sporting calendars, as well as help them to better combine education or employment with their careers, As the gap between the financial elite in professional sport and the grassroots level grows, MEPs ask the Commission to map existing financial solidarity mechanisms and redistribution schemes and to explore the creation of redistribution mechanisms between big and small leagues, clubs or competitions and in different disciplines. Finally, MEPs ask the Commission “to develop accessible and substantial funding schemes for sports clubs and organisations, with clear and accessible mechanisms, ensuring that earmarked funds reach the grassroots level”. Recognising the impact of Erasmus+ in supporting grassroots sports organisations and the citizens, the Parliament asks for a significant increase in funding for sport and physical activity, under this programme Quote “These challenges affect many sporting disciplines, and their scale and complexity is growing, thereby testing the resilience of the ‘European Sport Model’. This report serves as a call to action. Its timing is critical, as the European Commission is preparing to present its long-term strategy for European sports policy next year. Promoting and supporting sport at all levels is essential - not only for the success of professional competitions but also for fostering a healthier, more active society,” said the rapporteur, Bogdan Andrzej Zdrojewski. Background On 18 March 2025, the European Parliament held a consultation with the European Committee of the Regions, sports federations, teams, and many other organisations. The consultation garnered useful information to help frame the European Sports Model. Contributing 2.12% to the EU’s GDP and providing jobs to nearly six million people, sport sector faces growing challenges that test the resilience of the European Sport Model. Para saber mais  Text voted in plenary  Video recording of debate in plenary (6.10.2025)  Profile of the rapporteur Bogdan Andrzej Zdrojewski (EPP, PL)  Key features of a European Sport Model  EPRS study: EU education, youth and sport policy (September 2024)  Comissão da Cultura e da Educação  Factsheets of the European Union: Sport  European Commission webpage: EU funding in the field of sport Press release 07-10-2025 Plenary session   LIBE More flexible visa suspension mechanism       • New grounds for suspending visa-free access to the EU include hybrid threats and golden passports • Human rights violations and failure to comply with international court decisions will also be grounds for reinstating visa requirements   Parliament has backed legislation to make it easier to remove the right to visa-free travel to the EU from countries posing security risks or breaching human rights. In a vote on Tuesday, MEPs approved a reform of the EU visa suspension mechanism concerning 61 countries whose nationals can currently travel to the Schengen area without a visa for short stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period (see list of countries in Annex II here). The mechanism allows the European Commission to reintroduce visa requirements for a specific country when there are security concerns - first temporarily, pending an investigation and dialogue, and then permanently, if the issues persist. The grounds include internal security threats (including a rise in serious crimes committed by nationals from the country concerned), and substantial increases in unsuccessful asylum applications, entry refusals or numbers of people overstaying their visas. New grounds for suspension The reform adds new grounds for triggering a suspension, namely: hybrid threats (such as state-sponsored instrumentalisation of migrants); investor citizenship schemes (or "golden passports") raising security concerns; a lack of alignment with EU visa policy; violations of the United Nations Charter, international human rights or humanitarian law; and failure to comply with international court decisions. The additions align the grounds for suspension with the grounds for granting the visa waiver in the first place, and aim to create a deterrent effect. Existing grounds, including security concerns and a lack of cooperation on readmissions, will be maintained. No impunity for third-country government officials To deter third-country governments from violating the terms of their short-stay visa waiver agreements, the law will give the EU more flexibility to suspend visa freedom for government officials who may bear responsibility for a government’s human rights breaches or other violations. With the reform, the threshold for assessing “substantial” increases in numbers of people staying without permission or of serious criminal offences will be set at 30%. The threshold for calculating a low recognition rate of asylum application will be set at 20%. In well-justified cases, the Commission will also be able to deviate from these thresholds. Quote Rapporteur Matjaž Nemec (S&D, Slovenia) said: “Europe remains the world's most visited continent by tourists and business travellers alike, and our visa policy is therefore one of our strongest foreign policy tools. With a modernised suspension mechanism, the EU will be able to suspend visa-free travel in the case of serious human rights violations, and can target suspensions at government officials or other groups. This reformed mechanism reinforces our commitment to human rights and international law.” Next steps The legislation, already agreed informally by Parliament and Council negotiators, was approved in plenary by 518 in favour and 96 against, with 24 abstaining. It still needs to be formally adopted by the Council. It will enter into force 20 days after its publication in the EU Official Journal. How the system will work Under the new rules, the European Commission (following a proposal by a concerned member state or on its own initiative, and taking into account information received from any EU institution) can start the process of suspending visa-free travel from specific third countries into the Schengen area, first temporarily, and then permanently if the issues are not resolved. To date, visa freedom has only been revoked once, in the case of Vanuatu. Further information  Map of visa-free travel countries (Council website)  Steps of the procedure  Text adopted by plenary  Debate in plenary (6.10.2025)  EPRS briefing  Multimedia Centre  Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs Press release 07-10-2025 Plenary session EP TODAY       Tuesday 7 October Reaping the benefits of the single market First on the agenda, at 9.00, is a debate with Commission Executive Vice-President Stéphane Séjourné and Marie Bjerre, Danish Minister for European Affairs, on what still needs to be done to complete the EU’s single market and maximise its potential to boost growth. One year since Mario Draghi published his report on EU competitiveness, MEPs are expected to focus on the need to cut red tape, enforce existing rules, combat fraud, secure mutual recognition of professional qualifications, and harness digital tools. Maris KURME (+32) 477 99 06 65 Yasmina YAKIMOVA (+32) 470 88 10 60 @EP_SingleMarket Gaza peace efforts The afternoon’s proceedings will begin after the votes at around 12.30 with a debate on the EU’s role in supporting efforts towards peace in Gaza. Danish Minister for European Affairs Marie Bjerre for the Council and Dubravka Šuica for the European Commission will join in a discussion with MEPs on the roadmap for peace announced recently by US President Donald Trump. Snjezana KOBESCAK SMODIS (+32) 470 96 08 19 @EP_ForeignAff Simpler agriculture rules and a steadier income for farmers Parliament’s positions on two new pieces of farming legislation will be discussed in a joint debate with Agriculture Commissioner Christophe Hansen starting at about 14.00. Revised common agricultural policy rules have been designed to simplify existing legislation, ease some of the administrative burden for farmers and introduce greater flexibility into how environmental rules are applied. The amended rules on the organisation of markets in agricultural products are meanwhile about bolstering farmers’ contractual position in the food supply chain, to secure them stabler incomes. The votes on the two files are scheduled for Wednesday at 12.30. Hana RAISSI (+32) 484 27 87 54 @EP_Agriculture “This is Europe” debate with the Prime Minister of Luxembourg From 10.30, the Prime Minister of Luxembourg, Luc Frieden, will address Parliament followed by a key debate with MEPs on the future of the EU. EP President Metsola and Prime Minister Frieden will hold a short press point before the debate. Andreas KLEINER (+32) 498 98 33 22 Estefania NARRILLOS (+32) 498 98 39 85 @EuroParlPress In brief Rising antisemitism. Against a backdrop of increasingly frequent and serious antisemitic incidents across the EU, MEPs and Commissioner Magnus Brunner will discuss prejudice towards Jews and how it can be addressed, from about 16.00. Afghanistan. After four years of Taliban rule and a massive earthquake in August, MEPs will discuss with Commissioner Hadja Lahbib and Danish European Affairs Minister Marie Bjerre for the Council how to support women and disaster-stricken communities in Afghanistan. A resolution will be put to a vote on Thursday. India. The new strategic agenda for strengthening EU ties with India amid efforts to finalise a trade agreement between both sides will be the subject of a plenary debate with Commissioner Hadja Lahbib starting at about 18.00. Latin America. Last on the day’s agenda, starting at about 19.00, is a discussion with Commissioner Hadja Lahbib on strengthening ties with Latin America and the Caribbean in response to rising global tensions and a shifting geopolitical landscape. MEPs will vote on a report on Wednesday. Votes At noon, MEPs will vote, among others, on: -new rules on suspending visa-free travel from non-EU countries; -an extension of the toll derogation for zero-emission heavy-duty vehicles; -updated reporting requirements in the fields of financial services and investment support; -harmonised rules on river information systems; and -a report on the role of EU policies in shaping the European Sport Model. Live coverage of the plenary session can be found on Parliament’s webstreaming site and on EbS+. For detailed information on the session, please also see our newsletter. Find more information regarding plenary.

Press release 06-10-2025 ENVI   COP30: MEPs want EU climate policy to maintain a high degree of ambition

• Need for a science-based EU climate target for 2040 • Set clear calendar for the phase out of fossil fuels subsidies • Address the climate impact of conflicts On Monday evening, the Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety adopted its policy demands for the UN Climate Change Conference COP30. The resolution, adopted with 57 votes in favour, 23 against and four abstentions, states that the EU should remain a leader in international climate negotiations and calls on all countries to contribute their fair share in providing adequate climate finance. MEPs stress the need for EU climate policy “to keep a high ambition in line with the agreed targets and to prioritise in its actions cost-effectiveness, the competitiveness of European economy, social inclusion and a high level of environmental protection”. They urge the Council to adopt as soon as possible the EU’s climate pledge for 2035, and they regret the fact that the EU did not submit on time its updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to the Paris Agreement. The text also underlines the need to adopt a science-based EU climate target for 2040 in accordance with the European Climate Law. End the EU’s fossil fuels dependence and phase out subsidies MEPs reiterate the urgent need to end the EU’s fossil fuel dependence and accelerate its energy transition. They restate the need for the Commission and EU countries to set a deadline for the phasing out of fossil fuels subsidies. Address climate-related peace and security risks The report says climate change can lead to a scarcity of natural resources, food shortages, increased tensions in international relations, conflicts over natural resources, and is responsible for natural disasters. The international community should pay increased attention to the climate impact of conflicts, MEPs add, while underlining the frightening extent of environmental damage caused in Ukraine and Gaza. MEPs also want the defence sector to contribute to tackling climate change by reducing its emissions intensity and accelerating decarbonisation in the industry. All sectors must contribute to achieving climate neutrality The resolution argues for increased global efforts to reduce emissions and address climate impact across all sectors, including methane, road transport, international shipping, agriculture, textiles, and tourism. Next steps The resolution will be put to a vote by the full house during the plenary session of 20-23 October. Background The 30th UN climate conference will take place from 10 to 21 November 2025 in Belém, Brazil. A Parliament delegation led by Chair Lídia Pereira (EPP, PT) and Vice-Chair Mohammed Chahim (S&D, NL) will attend COP30 from 17 to 21 November. COP30 will focus on the efforts needed to limit the global temperature increase to 1.5°C, the presentation of new national action plans (through “nationally determined contributions” or NDCs) and the progress on the finance pledges made at COP29.

Further information  Procedure file: EP resolution on COP30  EP study: “The COP30 Climate Change Conference. Part I: Framework of COP negotiations and main expected issues” (October 2025)  EP Research Service briefing: “The third generation of national climate plans: Analysis of major economies' nationally determined contributions ahead of COP30” (September 2025)  COP30 (United Nations website)  COP30 (UNFCCC website)  COP30 (conference website)  EP multimedia centre

Press release 06-10-2025 ENVI   Wild fauna and flora: MEPs call for an end to all illegal trade by 2030

• Transnational wildlife crime must be recognised as organised crime • Legally binding instrument to stop ivory trafficking in the EU • Positive EU list of species that can be kept as pets   MEPs push for better application of bans and restrictions globally and call on the EU to lead the global fight against illegal trafficking of wild animals and plants. Ahead of the global UN meeting on the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, from 24 November to 5 December 2025, MEPs on the Environment, Climate Change and Food Safety Committee today adopted a report on the EU’s strategic objectives, by 67 votes to 8 and with 7 abstentions. To protect individual animals and species, as well as human and animal health and the environment, MEPs want to eliminate all illegal trade by 2030. The objective is to ensure that the only trade in wild fauna and flora is legal and sustainable, consistent with the long-term conservation of species and helping to halt biodiversity loss. To achieve this, the text calls on all countries to step up their enforcement of the UN convention, as current application of the convention’s bans and restrictions on the trade in protected species is inadequate. Organised crime and wildlife trafficking To combat the involvement of organised criminal groups, MEPs insist that transnational wildlife crime should be recognised by all parties as serious, organised crime that is often part of a larger crime. They underline the need to combat corruption and financial crime as well as wildlife cybercrime. In addition, they highlight the need to improve the traceability of trade, for instance by means of a detailed EU information system. The EU and its member states must also make it a crime to keep illegally sourced wildlife, regardless of its listing status in CITES. On species-specific matters, MEPs call for action to combat the illegal trade in aquatic species, such as eels, and to do more to protect shark and ray species from unsustainable and illegal trade. MEPs also propose a legally binding instrument to stop ivory trafficking in the EU. Finally, MEPs call on the Commission to move quickly to propose a positive EU list of animals that may be kept or traded as pets. Next steps The resolution will be put to a vote by the full house during the 20-23 October plenary session. Background This year the world wildlife treaty CITES celebrates 50 years of regulating the global trade in wildlife. COP20 will bring together global leaders, scientists, civil society, and stakeholders to negotiate and advance action to protect endangered species against over-exploitation. It will also review the implementation of the convention and decide on updates to wildlife species listings in Appendices I and II, enforcement, and the future direction of CITES. A delegation of five MEPs will attend the conference from 24 to 26 November.

Further information  Procedure file  CITES web site  Free photos, video and audio material  Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety

Press release 06-10-2025 SEDE   ITRE   European Defence Industry Programme: press conference

Following the latest round of negotiations with Council, lead MEPs François-Xavier Bellamy and Raphaël Glucksmann will answer questions from journalists on Wednesday, 9h When: Wednesday 8 October, 9.00 - 9.30 Where: European Parliament, Strasbourg, Daphne Caruana Galizia room - WEISS N -1/201 The press conference will be given by the rapporteurs from the Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE) committee, François-Xavier Bellamy (EPP, France) and from the Security and Defence (SEDE) committee, Raphaël Glucksmann (S&D, France). The two committees are working jointy on the legislation. The European Defence Industry Programme (EDIP) aims to strengthen the European defence sector and further integrate the EU defence industry, by bridging the gap between short-term emergency measures, such as the Act in Support of Ammunition Production (ASAP) and the European Defence Industry Reinforcement through Common Procurement Act (EDIRPA), that have been implemented since 2023 and will end in 2025, and a more structural, long-term approach. The press conference will take place in the press room and via interactio. Journalists wishing to actively participate and ask questions, please connect via Interactio by using this link. The press conference will also be webstreamed live and recorded on Parliament’s Multimedia Centre. Information for the media - Use Interactio to ask questions Interactio is supported on Mac/Windows (with the Google Chrome browser) and Ipad (with the Safari browser). When connecting, enter your name and the media you are representing in the first name / last name fields. For better sound quality, use headphones and a microphone. Journalists who have never used Interactio before are asked to connect 30 minutes before the start of the press conference to perform a connection test. IT assistance can be provided if necessary. For more details, check the connection guidelines and recommendations for remote speakers.

Further information  Committee on Industry, Research and Energy  Committee on Security and Defence  François-Xavier Bellamy (EPP, FR)  Raphaël Glucksmann (S&D, FR)

Press release 06-10-2025 LUX Audience Award: press conference to announce the 2026 nominees

The shortlisted films for the 2026 LUX Audience Award will be unveiled on Tuesday 7 October at a press conference in the European Parliament. First Vice-President of the Parliament Sabine Verheyen (EPP, DE) and Chair of the Committee on Culture and Education Nela Riehl (Greens/EFA, DE), in the presence of the representatives (directors, producers, actors) of the selected films, will disclose this year’s shortlist selected by a panel of film professionals from across the EU. When: Tuesday 7 October 2025 at 15.00 Where: European Parliament, Strasbourg, Daphne Caruana Galizia press conference room (WEISS N -1/201). Interpretation will be provided in English, French, and German. Accredited media representatives can attend the press conference in person. Journalists wishing to ask questions remotely can connect via Interactio. The press conference will also be web streamed live and recorded on the Parliament’s Multimedia Centre. Invitation to the launch event Journalists are kindly invited to attend the launch event, featuring the participation of the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, Vice-President Sabine Verheyen, Chair Nela Riehl, the mayor of Strasbourg Jeanne Barseghian, the chair of the European Film Academy, Mike Downey, and representatives of the selected films. When: Tuesday 7 October 2025, 18.00-20.00 Where: European Parliament, La Rotonde (CHURCHILL -01) and online Next steps The nominated films will be screened in cinemas across the EU and rated by citizens and MEPs. The final winner will be decided in mid-April 2026 on the basis of the votes of MEPs and the results of the public ratings. Information for the media - Use Interactio to ask questions Interactio is only supported on iPad (with the Safari browser) and Mac/Windows (with the Google Chrome browser). When connecting, enter your name and the media you are representing in the first name / last name fields. For better sound quality, use headphones and a microphone. Interpretation is only possible for interventions with video. Journalists who have never used Interactio before are asked to connect 30 minutes before the start of the press event to perform a connection test.

Further information  Link to participate in the press conference  Free photo, video and audio material: 2026 LUX Audience Award  Photoset: 2026 LUX Audience Award - panel selection  LUX Audience Award website  Committee on Culture and Education

​ 06-10-2025 Plenary session EP TODAY

Monday 6 October Last-minute press briefing at 16:30 The Parliament’s Spokesperson and the Press Service will hold a press briefing on this week’s plenary session at 16:30. You can follow the last-minute briefing live. Journalists wishing to take part and ask questions should please connect via Interactio. Two motions of censure Following the tabling of two separate motions of censure against the European Commission, there will be a plenary debate immediately after the opening of the session. The authors of the two motions will take the floor first, followed by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and one round of political group speakers. The two votes, by roll call, will take place on Thursday. To be adopted, a motion must secure a two-thirds majority of the votes cast, representing a majority of the component members. Andreas KLEINER (+32) 498 98 33 22 Estefania NARRILLOS (+32) 498 98 39 85 @EuroParlPress New rules to suspend visa-free travel to the EU In an evening debate starting at around 20.00, MEPs and Internal Affairs and Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner will discuss changes to the EU’s visa suspension mechanism agreed with Council in June. The reform will allow the European Commission to move faster to end visa-free travel from countries considered to pose security risks or to be in breach of human rights law. The mechanism concerns 61 countries whose nationals can currently travel to the Schengen area without a visa for short stays. The final plenary vote on the new legislation is scheduled for Tuesday at noon. Janne OJAMO (+32) 470 89 21 92 @EP_Regional In brief Monetary dialogue with Christine Lagarde. The European Central Bank (ECB) President will attend the Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee meeting for the regular monetary dialogue, to discuss the latest quarterly assessment of the ECB’s monetary policy, from 19.00. Intergenerational fairness. The United Nations designated International Day of Older Persons falls every year on 1 October. To mark the occasion in plenary, MEPs will debate intergenerational fairness with Glenn Micallef, Commissioner for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture and Sport, from around 19.00. European sport model. In a debate starting at around 18.00, MEPs will discuss the role of EU policies in shaping the European sport model with Commissioner Micallef. They will vote on the report on Tuesday. Live coverage of the plenary session can be found on Parliament’s webstreaming site and on EbS+. For detailed information on the session, please also see our newsletter. Find more information regarding plenary.

Press release 06-10-2025 Committee on Constitutional Affairs highlights - Thursday 9 October

Thursday 9 October 2025, 9.00 – 10.30 (extraordinary meeting) European Parliament in Strasbourg, Salvador de Madariaga building, room S5 Vote Institutional aspects of the Report on the future of European Competitiveness (Draghi Report). Rapporteur: Brando Benifei (S&D, IT) Debate Amendment of the European Electoral act, allowing Members to vote in plenary by proxy voting during pregnancy and after giving birth. Consideration of draft report. Rapporteur: Juan Fernando López Aguilar (S&D, ES)

Further information  Committee on Constitutional Affairs  Full agenda and meeting documents  Watch the meeting live and on demand

​ 06-10-2025 Plenary session Press briefing on this week’s plenary session

European Parliament’s spokespersons will hold a last-minute briefing on the 6 - 9 October plenary session today at 16.30. When: Monday 6 October at 16.30 Where: Daphne Caruana Galizia Press room and via Interactio Key topics this week include: -Debate and vote on Russian violations of EU airspace and critical infrastructure -Debate on the EU’s role in supporting recent peace efforts focused on Gaza and a two-state solution -Joint debate and vote on two motions of censure against the European Commission -Debate on promoting and protecting EU digital rules -Debate and vote on simpler EU agriculture rules and strengthening the position of farmers in the food supply chain -Debate on completing a fully integrated Single Market to create growth and prosperity -Formal sitting with Fredrik Nielsen, Prime Minister of Greenland -‘This is Europe’ debate with Luc Frieden, Prime Minister of Luxembourg Interpretation of the press briefing will be available in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish and Polish. You can follow it live from 16.30 on Monday in Parliament’s Daphne Caruana Galizia press room or via Parliament’s webstreaming and EbS+. Information for the media - Use of Interactio to ask questions Journalists wishing to participate actively and ask questions, please connect via Interactio using this link: https://ep.interactio.eu/link/pressconfp1611820. Interactio is only supported on iPads (with the Safari browser) and Mac/Windows (with the Google Chrome browser). For more details, check the connection guidelines and recommendations for remote speakers. When connecting, enter your name and the media you are representing in the first name / last name fields. For better sound quality, use headphones and a microphone. Interpretation is only possible for questions asked on video. Journalists who have never used Interactio before are asked to connect 30 minutes before the start of the press conference to perform a connection test. IT assistance can be provided if necessary. When connected, open the chat window (upper right corner) to be able to see the service messages.

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