EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT,update

 

Press service European Parliament       Highlights 10-10-2025 Next week in the development committee     On the agenda: Sakharov Prize 2025, Global Gateway, Latin America and the Caribbean Thursday, 16 October, 9:00 - 13:30 (ANTALL 6Q2/SPINELLI 5G) Debates Jointly with the Committee on Foreign Affairs, a public hearing on Global Gateway: Past impacts and future orientation (10.30 – 12.00, ANTALL 6Q2) The presentation of a study by author Ms Cathrine Talleraas on the role of EU development cooperation in addressing irregular migration in Africa In association with the Delegation to the Euro-Latin American Parliamentary Assembly (DLAT), a presentation of the UNDP 2025 Human Development Report for Latin America and the Caribbean ahead of the EU-CELAC Summit, and an exchange of views with UNDP Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean Michelle Muschett Votes Together with the Committee on Foreign Affairs and in cooperation with the Subcommittee on Human Rights, MEPs will vote on a shortlist of three candidates for the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought 2025 (9:00-10.30, ANTALL 6Q2, *in camera*) Further information  Meeting Agenda  Meeting Documents  Watch Live  Homepage of the Committee on Development (DEVE)

Press release 10-10-2025 Internal Market and Consumer Protection Committee

Next week’s highlights Thursday, 16 October 2025, 9.00 – 12.00 European Parliament, Spinelli building, room 1G-3 Agenda | Meeting documents | Webstreaming | Committee homepage Votes 9.30 Protection of minors online – rapporteur Christel Schaldemose (S&D, DK), adoption of the draft report Transparency of third country interest representation – rapporteur Adina Vălean (EPP, RO), adoption of the draft report Exchanges of views and scrutiny sessions with the Commission +/- 10.45 Political Advertising Regulation: compliance with new rules – scrutiny session Market surveillance and compliance of products: controls on EU entry of products – presentation of the report and exchange of views Empowering consumers for the green transition: EU label on product durability – scrutiny session Reporting back 9.00 Package Travel – rapporteur Alex Agius Saliba (S&D, MT) reports back to committee on the first round of negotiations E-declaration for posting of workers – rapporteurs Johan Danielsson (S&D, SE) and Andreas Schwab (EPP, DE) report back to committee on the first round of negotiations Union Customs Code and the European Union Customs Authority – rapporteur Dirk Gotink (EPP, NL) reports back to committee on the second round of negotiations Working group on the Implementation of the Digital Markets Acts (DMA) – Chair of the Working group Andreas Schwab (EPP, DE) reports back to committee IMCO mission to Denmark and Sweden on 15-17 September 2025 – overview of the committee visit

Further information  Follow the Internal Market Committee on X  Subscribe to news and press release from the Internal Market Committee  Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection  Webstreaming  Agenda and meeting documents  Newsletters of the committee  Catch up via video on demand

Press release 10-10-2025 IMCO   Democratic integrity: New EU rules for political advertising take effect today

From today, all political ads must clearly disclose who paid for them, how much, and whether they are targeting a specific audience. The regulation, which is in application in full from today, 10 October, sets common EU standards for the transparency of political advertising. It does not ban political advertising, nor does it regulate the content of political ads. Personal views, political opinions, such as any unsponsored journalistic content, or communication on the organisation and participation in elections by official national or EU sources are not impacted. Quote Parliament’s lead negotiator on the file Sandro Gozi (Renew, FR) said: “This regulation establishes a single European framework, the first of its kind, designed to serve as a global model for ensuring fairer elections, protecting citizens from abuses from the use of their personal data and strengthening democratic resilience in the face of foreign interference. It is Europe's response to the Cambridge Analytica scandal: after the massive manipulation that undermined our democracies, the European Union is now putting in place a robust system to prevent similar abuses from happening again. “Recently however, Google and Meta have announced they will halt all political, electoral and even social issues advertising across the European Union rather than comply with the new rules. This decision carries far-reaching consequences: it deprives citizens, parties and associations of legitimate and transparent channels of communication, and once again illustrates the attitude of certain major platforms - prioritising their economic interests over respect for democratic rules. In Europe however, democratic rules are not optional. Suggesting that it is possible to circumvent the law and avoid the responsibilities incumbent upon any actor operating in our market is simply unacceptable,” he added. “Freedom of expression must never become freedom to manipulate or a tool for disinformation. It is time for platforms to assume their responsibility in safeguarding our electoral processes. The regulation we are implementing today is clear: protecting the public interest and democracy takes precedence over the profits of digital giants. “The European Union is sending a strong signal, reaffirming its commitment to building a democratic, safe and open digital space where every citizen can make an informed choice at the ballot box. After the Digital Services Act and the Digital Markets Act, Europe is first in establishing a comprehensive European framework for online political advertising, promoting transparency, digital sovereignty and the defence of our democratic values,” he concluded. Background The new rules, which were adopted by Parliament in February 2024, aim to enhance citizens’ trust in election campaigns and address challenges related to the rise of disinformation, foreign interference and advanced targeting techniques. A high level of transparency in political campaigns is essential to ensure a fair debate and elections, and informed democratic participation. On 8 October 2025, the Commission published guidelines to support political actors and providers of political advertising services in applying the new rules. They will be discussed in the next meeting of the Internal Market and Consumer Protection committee on 16 October.

Further information  Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection

Press release 10-10-2025 JURI   Press conference: simplified sustainability reporting and due diligence rules

Rapporteur Jörgen Warborn will brief journalists on changes to sustainability reporting and due diligence requirements for companies, on Monday 13 October at 18.15. To boost competitiveness and cut red tape, existing sustainability reporting and due diligence rules are being simplified. The aim is to ease reporting requirements and cut social and environmental obligations for companies. The draft new rules restrict the pool of companies that will be required to report on sustainability and make social and environmental considerations part of their governance. They also bring changes to the extent and detail of sustainability reporting, companies’ liability for adverse impacts, and related sanctions. Legal Affairs Committee (JURI) rapporteur Jörgen Warborn (EPP, SE) will brief journalists following the JURI vote, scheduled for 13 October 2025, and will answer questions about the next steps in the procedure. WHEN: Monday 13 October, 18.15 CEST WHERE: Anna Politkovskaya press conference room in the European Parliament in Brussels (SPAAK building, room 0A50) and via Interactio, with interpretation to and from English, French, German, and Swedish. HOW: Accredited journalists can attend the press conference in person. Those wishing to participate actively and ask questions remotely can do so via Interactio. The press conference will be streamed live and be made available on demand on Parliament’s Multimedia Centre. Using 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 organisation 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 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. For more details, check the connection guidelines and recommendations for remote speakers.

Further information  Press conference webstreaming (13 October 2025)  Procedure file  Legislative train

Press alert 10-10-2025 Meeting of the Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety (ENVI)

Meeting of the Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety (ENVI) Monday 13 October 2025, 15.00 – 16.00, Brussels, Room: ANTALL (6Q2) Monday 13 October 2025, 16.00 – 18.45, Brussels, Room: ANTALL (4Q2) DEBATES 13 October 2025, 15.00 – 16.00 - Joint meeting with the Committee on Transport and Tourism EU actions tackling sea pollution by ships - special ECA report 06/2025, more information - Presentation by the European Court of Auditors - Exchange of views 13 October 2025, 16.00 – 17.00 State of the Environment Report: Europe's Environment 2025, more information - Presentation by Leena Ylä-Mononen, Executive Director of European Environment Agency - Exchange of views 13 October 2025, 17.00 – 18.45 - Joint meeting with Commission for the Environment, Climate change and Energy (ENVE) of the Committee of the Regions Regions taking action on climate resilience and adaptation, more information - Exchange of views *** Next meetings 20 October 2025, 19.00 – 21.00 (Strasbourg) 4 November 2025, 9.00 – 12.30 and 14.30 – 18.30 11 November 2025, 9.00 – 12.30 and 14.30 – 18.30 Follow us on Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/envi.europarl.europa.eu or X (Twitter): https://x.com/ep_environment

Further information  Agenda and meeting documents  Follow the meeting live  Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety

Press release 09-10-2025 TRAN   Air passengers rights: press conference on Monday at 17.45

Rapporteur Andrey Novakov (EPP, BG) and shadows will brief journalists on the review of EU air passengers rights rules following a vote in the Transport Committee on Monday. On Monday evening, the Transport and Tourism Committee is set to adopt its negotiation position on the review of EU air passengers rights rules. MEPs are seeking to ensure passengers are taken care of when they are denied boarding, their flights are cancelled or delayed. They want current travel rights to be maintained alongside the introduction of improvements in helping stranded passengers, regulating cabin baggage, and on the access to compensation. When: Monday, 13 October 2025, 17.45 CEST Where: European Parliament in Brussels, Anna Politkovskaya press conference room (SPAAK 0A50) Who: Parliament’s rapporteur Andrey Novakov (EPP, BG) together with shadow rapporteurs: Mateo Ricci (S&D, IT), Vilis Krištopans (PfE, LV), Kosma Złotowski (ECR, PL), Jan-Christoph Oetjen (Renew, DE), Vincent Marzà Ibáñez (Greens, ES) and Arash Saeidi (The Left, FR). How: Accredited media representatives are invited to physically attend the press conference. In addition, journalists can join the press conference and ask questions remotely via Interactio platform. 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. Interpretation will be available in English, French, Italian, Spanish, Polish and Bulgarian. The press conference will also be web streamed live and recorded on the Parliament’s Multimedia Centre. You can follow it here. You are kindly invited to confirm your participation in the press conference by replying to gediminas.vilkas@europarl.europa.eu. Background In 2013 Commission presented a proposal for updated air passengers rights rules, on which Parliament adopted a position in 2014. Progress on reaching an interinstitutional agreement was stalled for 11 years, until in June 2025 EU ministers reached a political agreement among themselves, opening the way for negotiations with Parliament.

Further information  Live webstreaming of the press conference  Procedure file  Committee on Transport and Tourism

Press release 09-10-2025 Plenary session   SEDE   AFET MEPs demand a unified EU response to Russian violations and hybrid warfare threats

• Parliament condemns violations of EU airspace and interference with EU infrastructure • Push for coordinated and proportionate action, including shooting down airborne threats • Calls for unified EU-NATO defence, sanctions on Russia, progress on European Defence Union and cooperation with Ukraine Coordinated action, stronger defence, and sanctions needed to counter Russian provocations targeting EU security and infrastructure. In a resolution adopted on Thursday, MEPs strongly condemn Russia’s “reckless and escalatory actions” of violating the airspace of EU and NATO member states Poland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Romania. They also denounce the deliberate drone incursions aimed at critical infrastructure in Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. They are, MEPs say, part of Russia’s “systematic military and hybrid warfare and provocations against the EU” and its member states. Russia bears full and unequivocal responsibility for the actions in Polish, Estonian and Romanian air spaces. Encouraging any initiative which enables the EU and its member states to take “coordinated, united and proportionate action against all violations of their airspace, including shooting down airborne threats” (2) , MEPs welcome the concept of an EU drone wall and the Eastern Flank Watch initiatives while underlining the need to ensure comprehensive coverage of all member states facing direct security challenges along its southern flank. (15) They consider the range of sabotage and hybrid activities of Russia against the EU amounts to state-sponsored terrorism, even if they fall below the threshold of an armed attack. EU has to show determination, say MEPs The EU must show resolve and signal that any third country attempting to violate member state sovereignty will immediately face retaliation, the resolution says. MEPs also call on the Council and the Commission to increase the effectiveness and impact of sanctions on Russia, to definitively undermine the country’s ability to continue waging its brutal war of aggression against Ukraine. The punitive measures should extend to all the states enabling Russia’s actions, such as Belarus, Iran and North Korea, with MEPs also advocating for sanctions against Chinese entities suppling dual-use goods and military items, essential for the manufacturing of drones and missiles. Strong European pillar within NATO Calling for enhanced coordination, unity and solidarity among member states, EU institutions, and NATO structures, MEPs insist on the urgent need to move towards a genuine European Defence Union, building on and going further than existing frameworks such as the White Paper for European Defence and Readiness 2030. This progress should go hand in hand with adequate funding within the current and next Multiannual Financial Framework they say, emphasising the need for stronger civil-military airspace coordination; and better equipping police forces and civilian authorities with the means to detect and defend against drones. Parliament also calls for the EU and its member states to equip authorities with the appropriate means to counter drones at critical infrastructure sites such as airports and power plants (11a). Learning from Ukraine The resolution calls for a substantive step up in defence cooperation with Ukraine, in particular regarding both drone technology and countermeasures, including enhancing industrial cooperation. It also urges the co-legislators to swiftly finalise the legislation on the European Defence Industrial Programme (EDIP). This should be used, together with the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) instrument, to commit financial resources to learn from Ukraine, and to support Ukraine on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) warfare. The resolution was adopted by 469 votes in favour, 97 against, and 38 abstentions.

Further information  Adopted text will be available here, 9.10.2025  Video recording of the debate, 8.10.2025  Result of the vote, 9.10.2025  EP Multimedia Centre

Press release 09-10-2025 Plenary session   AFET Afghanistan: unblock aid to earthquake victims and end “gender apartheid”

MEPs call for aid to reach all earthquake victims in Afghanistan, where the regime’s restrictive gender policies are obstructing aid deliveries. In a resolution adopted on Thursday by 504 votes in favour, 74 against, and 30 abstentions, the European Parliament calls for a stronger emergency aid response to the recent earthquake in Kunar, Afghanistan. Emergency relief needs to be scaled up MEPs are deeply concerned about the humanitarian situation in the Kunar and Nangarhar provinces. The emergency response should be scaled up, in particular to reach underserved populations. As international foreign aid cuts have severely affected programmes in Afghanistan, MEPs say the European Commission should urgently increase EU basic needs support for the country. Taliban committing “crime against humanity” Parliament denounces the Taliban regime’s deliberate abandonment of women and girls who are victims of the earthquake “as a crime against humanity”. Noting the regime’s restrictions on aid deliveries to women and girls, MEPs call on Afghanistan’s de facto authorities to lift all restrictions that limit the distribution of humanitarian aid. To boost the delivery of aid, MEPs call for more engagement with regional partners and trusted NGOs to bypass Taliban interference and ensure aid delivery. End “gender apartheid” MEPs condemn the Taliban’s numerous gender-based restrictions and discriminatory policies that prevent Afghan women from accessing education, medical training, healthcare, and humanitarian work, which amount to a “gender apartheid”. The EU should support recognising gender apartheid as a crime against humanity, and the Taliban regime should immediately lift restrictions on female humanitarian workers and women working for civil society organisations. Parliament also condemns the Taliban’s recent decision to shut down the internet nationwide, causing widespread disruption. Increase pressure on the Taliban MEPs condemn persistent violence against women, including rape, sexual violence and forced child marriages in Afghanistan. To increase pressure on Taliban leaders responsible for human rights violations, the EU and member states should adopt targeted sanctions, asset freezes, and travel bans against them, and refrain from resuming diplomatic contacts with the regime. Assist with asylum processes for human rights defenders MEPs note with concern that human rights defenders, journalists and other public figures that supported democratic development in Afghanistan are waiting in Pakistan for their EU asylum requests to be processed. Recently, deportations from Pakistan to Afghanistan have also targeted these groups, and EU member states should assist with these applications processes where possible. Background On 31 August 2025 a 6.0 magnitude earthquake hit the province of Kunar in Eastern Afghanistan, causing over 2,200 deaths and thousands of injuries, and destroying more than 6,700 homes. The EU and its member states are among the largest humanitarian donors to Afghanistan. They have approved €1 million in emergency funding, in addition to the €161 million in humanitarian aid already allocated in 2025.

Further information  The adopted text will be added here (9.10.2025)  Video recording of the plenary debate (7.10.2025)  Committee on Foreign Affairs

Press release 09-10-2025 Plenary session Human rights violations in Equatorial Guinea, Haiti and China

• Equatorial Guinea must end the unacceptable detention conditions of prisoners and respect their rights, including for EU citizens Javier Marañón Montero and David Rodríguez Ballesta • MEPs strongly condemn escalating violence and growing gang control in Haiti, and call for targeted sanctions, a weapon embargo and increased humanitarian assistance • On the 10th anniversary of the detention of Gui Minhai, MEPs call on China to end the censorship, harassment and intimidation of publishers, writers, journalists and academics On Thursday, Parliament adopted three emergency resolutions on Equatorial Guinea, Haiti and China. The arbitrary detention of EU citizens Javier Marañón Montero and David Rodríguez Ballesta in Equatorial Guinea MEPs condemn the serious human rights violations in Equatorial Guinea, including torture and inhumane prison conditions, the persecution of political opposition, and restrictions on freedom of expression. The Equatoguinean judiciary lacks accountability and independence from Teodoro Obiang’s regime, they say. Parliament denounces the arbitrary detention of Spanish citizens Javier Marañón Montero and David Rodríguez Ballesta, and their unacceptable detention conditions. MEPs call on the authorities to take immediate and unconditional measures, including respecting the right to a fair trial, lifting pretrial detention, and ensuring access to legal advice and medical care —particularly for Mr Marañón Montero, because of hunger strike. The Commission and the European External Action Service (EEAS) must step up diplomatic efforts regarding their cases in coordination with the Spanish authorities, MEPs add. They recall that human rights violations and arbitrary arrests negatively affect the EU’s relations with the country, damage the international reputation of Equatorial Guinea, and curb investments and cooperation. Parliament also urges Equatorial Guinea to sign the Samoa Agreement. The resolution was adopted by show of hands. For more details, the full version will be available here. (09.10.25) Humanitarian and security situation in Haiti, in particular the rising power of criminal gangs and the recent massacre in Cabaret Parliament strongly condemns the recent massacre in Labodrie, Cabaret, ongoing gang violence, and systematic sexual violence in Haiti. MEPs call on international support to rebuild judicial capacity in the country to ensure perpetrators are held accountable, and to provide assistance to survivors. MEPs call on Haitian stakeholders to agree to a transitional governance roadmap, to prevent the financing of armed groups and weapons trafficking. They urge the EU and its member states to increase humanitarian assistance for the country and to provide stronger support for security, development, and a political transition. UN's humanitarian aid remains critically underfunded, MEPs recall, whereas USAID cuts have suspended vital humanitarian services. MEPs also call on the EU to ensure that the newly approved Gang Suppression Force (GSF) is adequately supported and equipped, and enhanced backing of Haitian security forces must be provided. The EU and member states must continue the imposition of targeted sanctions against gang leaders and sponsors, and the international community must strengthen border control and enforce arms embargoes, MEPs add. The resolution was adopted by 550 votes in favour, 3 votes against, with 54 abstentions. For more details, the full version will be available here. (09.10.25) The 10th anniversary of the detention of jailed Swedish publisher Gui Minhai in China Parliament calls for the immediate and unconditional release of Chinese-born Swedish publisher Gui Minhai. MEPs note with deep concern the forthcoming 10th anniversary of his abduction and detention and reiterate their strongest condemnation. The case of Gui Minhai is representative of a pattern of violations of fundamental freedoms by Chinese authorities, MEPs say, including against human rights defenders, journalists, artists and ethnic and religious minorities. Respect for human rights, freedom of expression and press freedom must be at the core of EU-China relations, MEPs add. They call on the EEAS, the Commission and the Member States to continue raising Gui Minhai’s case at all levels of EU-China relations and ensure the protection of EU citizens abroad. The resolution was adopted by 546 votes in favour, 3 votes against, with 44 abstentions. For more details, the full version will be available here. (09.10.25)

Further information  Subcommittee on Human Rights  Committee on Foreign Affairs  Video recording of the plenary debate (08.10.25)  EP Multimedia Centre: free photos, video and audio material

Press release 09-10-2025 JURI   Committee on Legal Affairs - highlights of the next meeting

Meeting on Monday 13 October, 16.00-18.30, Brussels, Room: SPINELLI (1E-2). Agenda | Meeting documents | Webstreaming | Committee homepage VOTES: Simplification of corporate sustainability reporting and due diligence requirements (Omnibus I). Adoption of draft report. Rapporteur: Jörgen Warborn (EPP, SE). Monday at 16.30.Rapporteur will hold a press conference following the vote at 18.15 in the Anna Politkovskaya press conference room in the European Parliament in Brussels (SPAAK building, room 0A50) and via Interactio. The press conference will be broadcasted. Additional information will be available here. DEBATES: Copyright and generative artificial intelligence – opportunities and challenges. Consideration of amendments. Rapporteur: Axel Voss (EPP, DE). Monday at 16.10. The 28th Regime: a new legal framework for innovative companies. Consideration of amendments. Rapporteur: René Repasi (S&D, DE). Monday at 16.20. IMMUNITIES: (in camera) Request for the waiver of the immunity of Grzegorz Braun. Hearing and exchange of views. Rapporteur: Dainius Žalimas (Renew, LT). Monday at 17.00. Request for the waiver of the immunity of Daniel Attard. Exchange of views. Rapporteur: Dominik Tarczyński (ECR, PL). Monday at 17.45. Request for the waiver of the immunity of Salvatore De Meo. Exchange of views. Rapporteur: Dominik Tarczyński (ECR, PL). Monday at 18.00. Request for the waiver of the immunity of Nikola Minchev. Exchange of views. Rapporteur: Dominik Tarczyński (ECR, PL). Monday at 18.15.

Further information  Committee on Legal Affairs  Agenda  Meeting documents  Watch the meeting online  Catch-up via video  Subscribe to news from the Legal Affairs Committee  Follow the Legal Affairs Committee on X  Follow the Legal Affairs Committee on Bluesky

Press release 09-10-2025 AFCO   Draghi report follow-up: institutional reforms for competitiveness, governance

• Concrete proposals to refocus, accelerate and simplify the governance of the EU • Call to modernise decision-making through QMV and passerelle clauses, and to consider targeted amendments to the Treaties • EU governance reform linked to social justice, innovation, green transition and security On Thursday, the Committee on Constitutional Affairs put forward its proposals for a more effective, democratic and competitive Union, responding to the Draghi report. MEPs concur that the EU faces an existential challenge and underline that it must deliver “an unprecedented institutional effort” for competitiveness and sustainability — through a Union capable of taking timely and effective decisions, while remaining anchored in democratic governance, institutional balance, and respect for the Treaties. The report makes the case for simplifying and refocusing EU governance, including adapting Union competences to deliver “effective interventions in policy areas conducive to higher economic competitiveness”. it advocates for a more efficient and leaner institutional setup, including a reorganisation of the Commission, to strengthen the EU’s capacity to act and its global role. MEPs point to Parliament’s proposals for the revision of the Treaties and urge the European Council to consider, where possible, targeted amendments via the simplified procedure to speed up urgent reforms, particularly ahead of the next EU long-term budget. Other key proposals include: improving the Competitiveness Compass by strengthening the EU’s institutional set-up and developing the Competitiveness Coordination Tool into an overarching institutional framework, enabling the EU to act as a single entity; extending qualified majority voting and using passerelle clauses in key policy fields, while allowing enhanced cooperation when unanimity blocks action; a full right of legislative initiative and modernised inquiry powers for Parliament; clarifying and improving procedures for the use of Article 122 TFEU in emergencies, which should include the EU’s co-legislators “go ahead”; preparing the Union for future enlargement; completing the single market, creating a Savings and Investments Union, and adding a “fifth freedom” for research, innovation and education; anchoring competitiveness policies in social cohesion, equal opportunities and the European Pillar of Social Rights; making the EU budget more efficient, adding new own resources and simplify it to ensure funds reach SMEs and local communities; embedding decarbonisation, sustainability and democratic oversight in the Union’s governance; espousing the “freedom to stay” set out in the Letta report and establishing a Commissioner portfolio for regional development and cohesion; establishing a European defence union, improving industrial coordination, interoperability, and democratic control; and advancing a European AI model based on transparency, rights protection, and public-private cooperation and enhancing the role of the existing European AI Office. All improvements need to be accompanied by clear communication with citizens, to build trust, support, and a sense of shared responsibility, MEPs highlight. Quote Rapporteur Brando Benifei (S&D, IT) said: “If the EU wants to overcome its existential challenge by meeting the targets for innovation, decarbonisation, and security outlined in the Draghi report, it needs to improve its institutional framework. At stake is not just the EU’s competitiveness, but the credibility of the European project. We need to enable our Union to act with greater autonomy where it matters most, as a true global actor.” Next steps The report, adopted in committee with 19 votes in favour, nine against, no abstentions, is set to be put to a vote by the full House in November. Background The 2024 Draghi report on the future of European competitiveness warned that Europe must raise investment and modernise governance to remain relevant. It followed the Letta report on the single market and complements the Niinistö report on resilience.

Further information  Committee on Constitutional Affairs  Procedure file  EP Multimedia Centre

09-10-2025 Plenary session EP TODAY

Thursday 9 October Motions of censure against the European Commission At noon, MEPs will vote, by roll call, on two motions of censure against the Commission. For a motion to be adopted, a two-thirds majority of the votes cast, representing a majority of component Members of Parliament, is needed. The plenary debate with Commission President Ursula von der Leyen took place on Monday evening. You can watch it here. Andreas KLEINER (+32) 498 98 33 22 Estefania NARRILLOS (+32) 498 98 39 85 @EuroParlPress Response to Russian violations of EU airspace: vote on a resolution Also at noon, plenary is set to demand coordinated action, stronger defence, and sanctions to counter Russian provocations targeting EU security and infrastructure. The draft resolution to be voted on by MEPs condemns the recent spate of airspace violations and drone attacks on EU territory and calls for reinforced cooperation with NATO and Ukraine. Snjezana KOBESCAK SMODIS (+32) 470 96 08 19 @EP_ForeignAff In brief Gender equality. MEPs will discuss a roadmap for women’s rights, including a “Declaration of principles for a gender-equal society” with Commissioner Jessika Roswall in a debate starting at 9.00 and will vote on a resolution at noon. Petitions. MEPs will explore the findings of a report by the Committee on Petitions reviewing its 2024 activities, in a discussion with Commissioner Roswall from about 10.00, before voting on the report at noon. Mental health. To mark World Mental Health Day, which falls tomorrow, MEPs and Commissioner Roswall will be discussing the impact of socio-economic factors on people’s mental well-being. The debate will begin at about 11.00. Votes At noon, MEPs will also vote on: -a report on the situation in Afghanistan, in particular that of women, following the recent earthquakes; and -motions for resolutions on 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. -the final text agreed in interinstitutional negotiations on revising the European Works Councils Directive; -Parliament’s proposals to simplify the EU’s tax architecture; 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 08-10-2025 LIBE   40th anniversary of the Schengen agreement

To celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the Schengen agreement abolishing passport checks between participating states, Parliament and Commission will co-host an event with panel discussions. What: 40th Anniversary of the Signature of the Schengen Agreement Where: European Parliament in Brussels, Spinelli building, room 5G3 When: Wednesday 15 October 2025, 15:00-19:00 CEST The event will also be webstreamed through the Parliament’s Multimedia Centre. MEP Javier Zarzalejos (Chair of the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs) and Magnus Brunner (European Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration) will start off the event with opening remarks, followed by a video message from Parliament President Roberta Metsola. They will then welcome guest speakers organised in two thematic panels: Panel 1: Schengen for a global Europe -A shared identity, a shared prosperity Koen Lenaerts, President of the European Court of Justice (video-message) António Vitorino, former European Commissioner for Justice and Home Affairs (1999 to 2004) Nicholas Ioannides, Deputy Minister of Migration and International Protection, Republic of Cyprus MEP Lena Düpont, Chair of the Schengen and Borders Scrutiny Working Group Panel 2: Schengen - 40 years of EU landmarks Michel Gloden, Mayor of Schengen Samo Turel, Mayor of Nova Gorica, Slovenia, and Rodolfo Ziberna, Mayor of Gorizia, Italy Fulvio Origo, Global Business Travel Association, Country Director, Italy Gabriel Marti, President of European Law Students’ Association To close off the event, attendees will hear closing remarks by Chair Zarzalejos; Luxembourg’s Minister for Home Affairs Léon Gloden; Denmark’s Permanent Secretary of State for Immigration and Integration Pernille Breinholdt Mikkelsen (representing the Danish Presidency of the Council); and Henna Virkkunen, European Commission Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy. Read more here about the history and current members of the Schengen area. Information for media representatives Accredited journalists are welcome to attend the event in person. As space is limited, we invite those interested to register via e-mail to Janne Ojamo by 17:00 CEST on 13 October.

Further information  40th anniversary of the Schengen area agreement: statement by Roberta METSOLA, EP President (16 June 2025)  Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs

Press release 08-10-2025 Plenary session Premier of Greenland: The EU and Greenland need each other

On Wednesday, Jens-Frederik Nielsen addressed MEPs in Strasbourg as the first leader of a Greenland government to speak at the European Parliament. Welcoming Premier Nielsen, European Parliament President, Roberta Metsola said, “With Greenland as a strategic partner, we are working side by side to strengthen stability across the Arctic, to counter hybrid threats, and to tackle growing security risks. This Parliament will always stand with the people of Greenland for their right to choose their own path, for their territorial integrity,. When Greenland looks to Europe, they will find friends and allies.” In his speech, Premier Nielsen said that “Greenland needs the European Union, and the European Union needs Greenland” highlighting the importance of this partnership and thanking the EU for its strong support in challenging times. The Premier pointed to the potential for strengthening cooperation even more in areas such as mining, with Greenland possessing 24 of the 34 critical minerals identified by the EU, renewable energy given Greenland’s hydropower potential, the digital divide, as well as youth education and sustainable tourism. He also stressed the importance of trade relations, in particular for fish and shellfish, and underlined the need for trade to continue to be mutually beneficial. Mr. Nielsen said the Arctic is being transformed by accelerating climate change, transboundary pollution and biodiversity loss. He added that the people of Greenland have always lived off the land and the ocean, never taking more than was necessary. Mentioning that seal hunting has always been an important part of the Inuit culture, he hoped the EU would consider amending the general prohibition on placing seal products on the EU market as Greenland is experiencing grave negative impacts from this ban. Background With US President Donald Trump stating that he could not rule out an American annexation of the strategically important island, Greenland has found itself at the centre of geopolitical tension between the US and Europe. While Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, both Greenlandic and Danish authorities have continuously stressed Greenland’s right to self-determination and that Greenland is “not for sale”. Nielsen assumed office in April 2025.

Further information  Welcome by European Parliament President, Roberta Metsola  EP Multimedia Centre: free photos, video and audio material

Press release 08-10-2025 Plenary session   AGRI Parliament ready to start talks about simplifying EU agriculture laws

• More flexibility for farmers for keeping land in good agricultural and environmental state • Compulsory crisis payments for farmers affected by natural disasters • Higher maximum amounts to support small farmers On Wednesday, MEPs adopted a negotiating position for talks with the Council on simplifying the EU’s common agricultural policy. In the text adopted by 492 votes to 111 and with 39 abstentions, MEPs want more flexibility and support for farmers in complying with existing common agricultural policy (CAP) rules. Environmental requirements MEPs want to introduce more flexibility into how farms can abide by the CAP’s environmental rules. They agree that not only farms that are certified as entirely organic should be automatically considered as meeting some of the requirements to maintain land in good agricultural and environmental condition (GAEC), but also farms where only some parts are certified as organic, farms situated in special conservation areas and farms under 50 hectares in size. Crisis payments Parliament is against a new type of direct payment proposed by the Commission for farmers who have been affected by natural disasters. However, MEPs agree with the Commission’s proposal for a new crisis payment via the EU’s rural development funds. This crisis support for farmers should be compulsory for member states, MEPs say, and animal disease outbreaks should be added to the list of events the impact of which on farmers could justify the financial support. To allow more farmers to receive support in the case they lose their income or part for their production because of risks that are outside of their control, MEPs also propose lowering the threshold when farmers can access money from national governments to cover insurance premiums. They propose the threshold of at least 15% of lost average annual production or income compared to the 20% proposed by the Commission. Small farmers and changes to strategic plans Parliament proposes increasing the maximum limits for the support of small farmers: an annual payment of up to €5,000 (rather than the €2,500 proposed by the Commission) and a new one-off payment for business development of up to €75,000 (from the proposed €50,000). In order to speed up the implementation of the new flexibility rules, MEPs say that in 2026, changes to the national strategic plans based on this new law can have legal effect before their formal approval by the Commission. Quote Rapporteur André Rodrigues (S&D, PT) said: “We are sending the clear signal to nearly nine million farmers in the EU that Europe has listened. Enough of the bureaucratic maze they have to navigate, they will get simpler rules, less paperwork and more predictability. Negotiations with Council have to start without delay to reduce the administrative burden, increase funding for small farmers, and give time back to those who work the land, without undercutting our environmental ambition. We have to deliver a deal that works on the ground, cuts disproportionate penalties, and respects regional specificities, providing stability for Europe’s producers.” Next steps Talks with member states are set to start on Thursday 9 October, to potentially enable the final adoption of the new rules during a November 2025 plenary session. Background The Commission presented a simplification package of the current CAP on 14 May 2025. This flowed from recommendations from the strategic dialogue on the future of agriculture, which called for simplification to alleviate excessive administrative reporting and regulatory burdens on farmers and other agri-food actors. To speed up the adoption of the new rules, the European Parliament used a simplified procedure where MEPs tabled amendments directly to the Commission proposal. Simplification of EU rules a top priority for Parliament MEPs have repeatedly called for a revision of the EU rulebook to simplify and reduce administrative requirements for companies. The so-called “omnibus” proposals, tabled by the Commission as of February 2025, aim to boost EU competitiveness and prosperity, and unlock additional investment capacity for businesses. As a matter of urgency, Parliament has already adopted some proposals and is making swift progress to finalise the remaining proposals.

Further information  Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development  The adopted text will be available here (08.10.2025)  Plenary debate (07.10.2025)  Procedure file  Legislative train  EP Research Service briefing on CAP simplification package: Omnibus on Agriculture  EP Research Service briefing on CAP simplification  Free photos, video and audio material  MEPs want further flexibility and support for farmers in complying with common agricultural policy (CAP) rules © Kirill Kudryavtsev / AFP

Press release 08-10-2025 Plenary session   AFET The EU should strengthen its alliance with Latin America and the Caribbean

• Forge a partnership with Latin America to defend multilateralism • Support civil society to combat democratic backsliding • Deploy Global Gateway initiative and trade agreements to counter rival powers In a report on EU political strategy on Latin America, MEPs urge the EU to proactively re-engage and strengthen its ties with the region. On Wednesday, the Parliament adopted a report on an EU political strategy to strengthen ties with Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). The report calls for a more strategic and values-driven partnership to respond to rising global tensions and power rivalries. Geopolitical imperative Given today’s shifting geopolitical landscape, MEPs argue the EU and LAC must make a qualitative leap forward in their relationship. The report highlights what it says is a historic opportunity for the two regions to strengthen their alliance and buffer themselves against growing geopolitical tensions. The report encourages the EU and LAC to speak with a common voice on the global stage and to renew their political commitment through high-level engagement. The upcoming EU-CELAC summit is seen as a key moment to set an ambitious and operational bi-regional agenda. MEPs are concerned at democratic erosion in the region since 2019. They strongly condemn the ongoing human rights violations and curbs on fundamental freedoms in countries such as Nicaragua, Cuba, and Venezuela. The EU is urged to enhance its support for civil society and democratic actors, and to call for the immediate release of political prisoners. Economic cooperation The report welcomes the conclusion of negotiations on the EU-Mercosur Partnership Agreement, emphasising its strategic importance amid rising global competition. The EU remains the largest contributor to development cooperation in LAC. To maintain influence and counter the growing presence of China and Russia in the region, the EU and its member states are urged to step up investment, via initiatives such as the Global Gateway. This must be done in line with EU values, including respect for human rights, transparency, and environmental sustainability. A common voice on the global stage Finally, the report calls on the EU’s CELAC partners to take a unified stance on major international crises. This should include condemnation of Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine and coordinated action for peace in Gaza, including humanitarian intervention and calls for the release of all hostages. The report was adopted by 354 votes in favour, 195 against, and with 77 abstentions. Quote Rapporteur Davor Ivo Stier (EPP, HR) said: “Given the evolving global landscape, it is crucial to strengthen the historic bond between the EU and Latin America, reinforcing our alliance grounded in shared commitments and common values. Our partnership must deepen through genuine cooperation with a goal of strengthening the transatlantic area of peace, democracy and prosperity.”

Further information  Adopted text will be available here, 8.10.2025  Video recording of the debate, 7.10.2025  Result of the vote, 9.10.2025  EP think tank: Latin America and the Caribbean, 10.6.2025  EP annual report 2024 on the implementation of the common foreign and security policy, 2.4.2025  Committee on Foreign Affairs

Press release 08-10-2025 Plenary session   AGRI MEPs back changes to strengthen farmers’ position in the food supply chain

• Compulsory written contracts for delivery of agricultural products, with some exceptions • Clearer labelling and advertising rules • Public procurement to prioritise local and seasonal products from the EU   Parliament has adopted its mandate for talks with member states about new rules aimed at restoring balanced power relations in the agri-food supply chain. The amendments to the current common agriculture policy laws aim to strengthen the contractual position of farmers and thus stabilise their income. In the mandate for talks with the Council, adopted on Wednesday by 532 votes to 78 and 25 abstentions, Parliament proposes several improvements. Written contracts and producer organisations MEPs support mandatory written contracts for deliveries of agricultural products. They, however, propose that EU member states may exempt specific sectors of that obligation at the request of an organisation representing the sector. Parliament also lowers to €4,000 (from €10,000 proposed by the Commission) the threshold value when Member States may decide that contracts are not compulsory. To avoid unnecessary competition between production models, MEPs oppose the creation of organic producer organisations. Labelling and marketing MEPs want more clarity on the use of the terms “fair” or “equitable” for agricultural products and want the criteria for allowing such labelling to include the products’ contribution to the development of rural communities and the promotion of farmer organisation development. The term “short supply chain” on labels or in advertising should only be used for products produced in the EU with a limited number of intermediaries between the farmer and the final consumer or that are handled over a short distance or during a short time, say MEPs. Pesticides in imported food MEPs add to the new rules a condition that food and feed of plant and animal origin may only be imported from third countries if their residue levels of pesticides are below the maximum level allowed for those produced in the EU. Public procurement EU countries will have to ensure that supply contracts awarded under public procurement procedures are sourced from agricultural and food products originating in the Union, in particular using local and seasonal products. Priority should be given to products with EU geographical indications. Stricter definition of meat MEPs decided to introduce a new definition of meat as “edible parts of animals” and specify that names such as steak, escalope, sausage or burger must be reserved exclusively for products containing meat and must exclude cell-cultured products. Quote Rapporteur Céline Imart (EPP, FR) said during a plenary debate: “We want to make sure that farmers have a contract with their first buyer. We need to put an end to the precarious business relations that exist right now. All too often they are too imbalanced. We need to guarantee fair remuneration for those who feed us, taking into account the production costs involved. “Farm income is not just a matter of statistics or abstract figures. It is a question of justice, dignity and sometimes even survival. Those who produce our food represent our identity. This instrument is the very least we owe them”, added the rapporteur. Next steps Talks with member states about the final shape of the law are set to start on Tuesday 14 October.

Further information  The adopted text will be available here (8.10.2025)  Plenary debate (7.10.2025)  Procedure file  Legislative train  EP Research Service briefing  EP Multimedia Centre (common agricultural policy)

Press release 08-10-2025 Plenary session   PECH Parliament confirms tuna fisheries protocol between EU and Côte d’Ivoire

• 25 freezer tuna seiners and seven surface longliners from Spain, France and Portugal can catch up to 6,100 tonnes of tuna per year • EU will pay €740,000 per year, part of which should support Côte d’Ivoire’s sustainable fisheries sector • Objective: to guarantee responsible tuna catch and improve economic opportunities for local fishers   Thirty-two EU vessels can continue to fish tuna in Côte d’Ivoire’s waters, up to 6,100 tonnes per year until 2029, following Parliament’s approval. On Wednesday, MEPs gave their consent to the new protocol setting out the amount of tuna and other migratory species that can be caught by EU vessels in Côte d’Ivoire’s fishing zone as well as the financial compensation due to the West African country. The EU will pay €740,000 per year. Out of that, €305,000 will serve to guarantee access rights to twenty-five Union tuna purse seiners and seven surface longliners, from Spain, France and Portugal. Another €435,000 will be earmarked to support the development of sustainable fisheries in Côte d’Ivoire, helping to grow the small-scale fisheries and aquaculture sector, and improve scientific expertise and administrative capacity, while enhancing infrastructure, for instance at the port of Abidjan. Under the protocol, EU shipowners will pay €80 per tonne of catch in the first two years, and €85 per tonne in the final two years. Tuna seiners will have to pay Côte d’Ivoire authorities €12,000 in advance per fishing licence yearly (for the first two years) and €12,750 afterwards. Surface longliners will have to pay €4,000 per year until 2027 and €4,250 afterwards. Cooperation to ensure a responsible catch and to tackle illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing A Joint Committee will decide on the allocation of funds for sustainable fisheries, to ensure transparency and alignment with strategic objectives. Both sides have agreed to cooperate to strengthen the mechanisms for control, inspection and combating IUU fishing in Côte d'Ivoire. Funds will also be used to stimulate job creation and improve economic opportunities for local communities through better fisheries management. The protocol seeks to ensure responsible exploitation of tuna stocks in accordance with International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) regulations and regional fisheries management obligations. Adopted by 520 votes in favour with 97 against and 12 abstentions, the current fisheries protocol has been provisionally applied since 6 June 2025. It is valid for four years, until 5 June 2029. Quote "The new fisheries partnership with Côte d’Ivoire is a balanced and mutually beneficial agreement. This protocol secures valuable fishing opportunities for European fishers and strengthens Europe’s food security, while supporting economic resilience in Côte d’Ivoire through investment in sustainable fisheries management and the fight against illegal fishing. It delivers concrete benefits for both sides,” said rapporteur Ton Diepeveen (PfE, NL). Background Despite periods of political instability, Côte d’Ivoire, with its population of 29 million, has experienced economic growth driven largely by agricultural exports. The West African country’s fisheries sector, particularly in the port city of Abidjan, is important for employment and food security as it provides thousands of jobs and contributes significantly to the country’s gross domestic product. The main challenges for Côte d’Ivoire’s fishing sector relate to unsustainable fishing practices and illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, conducted by foreign vessels operating under flags of convenience. The fisheries partnership between the EU and Côte d'Ivoire dates back to December 1990. In 2007, it was replaced by the current fisheries partnership agreement, whose protocols are automatically renewed for six-year periods. The previous EU–Côte d’Ivoire sustainable fisheries partnership agreement pointed to critical issues, such as under-utilisation of fishing licences, inadequate oversight, poor working conditions for local crews and administrative delays in sectoral support implementation, as well as non-compliance with minimum wage standards for local crew members.

Further information  Draft resolution voted in plenary  Procedure file  Profile of the rapporteur Ton Diepeveen (PfE, NL)  Committee on Fisheries  EP Research Service: EU-Côte d’Ivoire fisheries agreement  Protocol on the implementation of the Fisheries Partnership Agreement between the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire and the European Community (2025-2029)  European Commission webpage: Sustainable fisheries partnership agreement with Côte d’Ivoire