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Press release 16-12-2025 Plenary session   INTA   ITRE Phasing out Russian gas - press conference       Following the plenary vote on Wednesday, lead MEPs Inese Vaidere and Ville Niinistö will answer questions from journalists at 13h When: Wednesday 17 December, 13.00 - 13.30 Where: European Parliament, Strasbourg, Daphne Caruana Galizia room - WEISS N -1/201 On Wednesday, MEPs are set to approve a new law banning imports of Russian natural gas, to protect the EU’s energy security from weaponisation by the Russian Federation. The draft law was provisionally agreed between Parliament and Council negotiators on 3 December 2025. Spot-market Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) will be banned from the EU once the regulation enters into force in early 2026. Pipeline gas imports will be phased out by 30 September 2027. The new law also establishes penalties for member states to enforce against operators in the event of infringements. 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 International Trade  Inese Vaidere (EPP, LV)  Ville Niinistö (Greens/EFA, FI) Available in                      Press release 16-12-2025 Plenary session   AGRI Parliament endorses simpler rules and more support for farmers       • More flexibility for farmers for keeping land in good agricultural and environmental condition • Only one farm inspection per year • Higher financial support for small scale farmers MEPs adopted new rules on Tuesday introducing more flexibility and support for farmers in complying with the EU’s common agricultural policy (CAP). The preliminary agreement, reached by Parliament and Council negotiators on 10 November 2025, was adopted by 629 votes to 17 and with 16 abstentions. Support to small farmers The co-legislators agreed that small farms can be supported with up to €3,000 of annual financial support, instead of an initial €2,500 proposed by the Commission and an additional new one-off business development payment of up to €75,000, rising from the previously proposed €50,000. Environmental requirements To help preserve biodiversity and spare farmers the expensive and labour-intensive task of ploughing their fields, the new rules ensure land classified as arable as of 1 January 2026 will retain this designation, even if it has not been ploughed, tilled, or reseeded. Farmers certified as organic will automatically be considered as having met the Good Agricultural and Environmental Condition (GAEC) standards requirements for the parts of their farms that are either already organic or in the process of being converted to organic farming. Member States will be allowed to limit this simplification in case controls would create high administrative burden. Fewer on-the-spot checks Inspections will take place according to the so-called “once only” principle, so farmers will not have to undergo more than one official check on-the-spot in any given year. Quote Rapporteur André Rodrigues (S&D, PT) said: "Farmers need clear rules, less bureaucracy and payments they can rely on. What we approved today proves what we have defended since the beginning: we can have simpler rules and better support, without weakening environmental and social protections." Next steps: The provisional agreement now needs to be formally approved by the Council. It will enter into force a day after being published in the EU Official Journal. Further information  Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development  Latest EPRS document:  EU draft rules on CAP simplification  Video of the plenary debate  Parliament agrees to simplify agriculture rules © N Felix/peopleimages.com / Adobe Stock

Press release 16-12-2025 Plenary session   AFET Call for stronger EU-Saudi Arabia cooperation

• MEPs support negotiations on a strategic partnership • Human rights remain central to the EU-Saudi Arabia relationship • Saudi Arabia is an important diplomatic actor In a report adopted on Tuesday, MEPs focus on Saudi Arabia's growing geopolitical role in the Middle East and converging views with the EU on key regional and global issues. MEPs support stronger foreign and security policy cooperation with Saudi Arabia, in the light of escalating regional tensions. In a report adopted by 417 votes in favour, 131 against and 108 abstenitons , the parliamentarians say such cooperation must be based on a shared commitment to respect for international law, including human rights, international humanitarian law, and the United Nations Charter. They are in favour of starting negotiations on a strategic partnership, to reach an agreement that would formalise and help expand bilateral engagement. Affirming the EU’s aim to boost bilateral ties with each Gulf Cooperation Council partner, MEPs note that, when it comes to the EU and Saudi Arabia, economic cooperation is the cornerstone of the bilateral relationship. They underline the potential for further EU-Saudi Arabia economic collaboration in the area of sustainable energy, critical raw materials, information technology, and entrepreneurship. Respect for human rights Human rights and fundamental freedoms remain central to the EU-Saudi Arabia relationship, MEPs argue. The report acknowledges progress in areas such as women’s empowerment and civil society participation, while encouraging continued reform and greater alignment with international human rights standards. Saudi Arabia’s growing importance as a diplomatic actor The report underlines Saudi Arabia’s growing importance as a diplomatic actor and its significant contributions to regional and global stability, particularly in the context of military operations in Gaza, as well as in recent developments in Syria, Lebanon, Yemen, the Red Sea and Sudan. MEPs call on Saudi Arabia to continue to work with the EU on counterterrorism and anti-radicalisation efforts, underlining that in doing so it must comply with international human rights standards. MEPs highlight Saudi Arabia’s commitment to maritime security and call for closer political and intelligence cooperation with EUNAVFOR ASPIDES and with EU member states more broadly. Quote The rapporteur, Hana Jalloul Muro (S&D, Spain), said: “This report strengthens EU-Saudi ties at a pivotal moment, recognising Saudi Arabia’s geopolitical role in Ukraine, Gaza and Syria. As EU-Gulf Cooperation Council strategic partnership agreements advance, we support this engagement and progress, while stressing the need to uphold international law and human rights with a reliable partner.”

Further information  Committee on Foreign Affairs  Adopted text, 16.12.2025  Result of the votes, 16.12.2025  EP Research Service: Saudi Arabia's foreign policy, 25.9.2025

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Press release 16-12-2025 Plenary session   JURI Simplified sustainability reporting and due diligence rules for businesses

• Sustainability reporting will be required from companies with over 1,000 employees and a net annual turnover of over €450 million • Smaller companies with fewer than 1,000 employees will be protected from a shift in responsibility for reporting • Only large corporations with more than 5,000 employees and a net annual turnover of over €1.5 billion have to carry out due diligence • Due diligence rules will apply from July 2029   On Tuesday, Parliament approved a provisional agreement between MEPs and EU governments on updated sustainability reporting and due diligence rules for companies. The revamped rules will apply to fewer companies and reduce some obligations for firms thus strengthening EU competitiveness. Easier sustainability reporting Only EU companies employing on average over 1,000 employees and with a net annual turnover of over €450 million will have to carry out social and environmental reporting. The rules will also apply to non-EU companies with net turnover in the EU of over €450 million and to their subsidiaries and branches generating turnover higher than €200 million in the EU. The reporting requirements will be significantly simplified, and sector-specific reporting will become voluntary. Co-legislators ensured that companies required to prepare sustainability reporting will not shift that responsibility to their smaller business partners. Firms with fewer than 1,000 employees will not have to provide information to their bigger business partners beyond what is included in the voluntary reporting standards. To facilitate compliance, the Commission will establish a digital portal with access to templates and guidelines on EU and national reporting requirements. Due diligence obligations for very big corporations Fewer companies will need to carry out due diligence on reducing their negative impact on people and the planet. Under the revised rules, this will only be required from large EU corporations with more than 5,000 employees and a net annual turnover of over €1.5 billion and for non-EU companies above the same turnover threshold in the EU. They will have to carry out scoping exercises to identify risks in their chain of activities and they should only ask for information from business partners with fewer than 5,000 employees when the information for in-depth assessment cannot be obtained another way. Transition plans ensuring a company’s business model is compatible with the shift to a sustainable economy will no longer be required. Businesses will be liable at the national level for failures to apply the rules correctly and could face fines of up to 3% of the firm’s net worldwide turnover. The due diligence directive will only apply from 26 July 2029 for all businesses within its scope. Quote Rapporteur of the Legal Affairs Committee Jörgen Warborn (EPP, SE) said: ”Parliament has listened to the concerns expressed by job creators across Europe. Backed by a broad majority, today’s vote delivers historic cost reductions while keeping Europe’s sustainability goals on track. This is an important first step in the ongoing efforts to simplify EU rules.” Next steps The text was adopted with 428 votes in favour, 218 against and 17 abstentions. The final text will have to be formally approved by Council, too. The directive will enter into force twenty days after its publication in the Official Journal. Background The updated sustainability rules are part of the Commission’s Omnibus I simplification package. It was presented in February 2025 with the aim to cut red tape and make compliance with sustainability rules easier for businesses thus boosting EU competitiveness. Following the delayed application of the sustainability reporting and due diligence obligations, this proposal seeks to simplify them and reduce the administrative burden for companies. A press conference with rapporteur Jörgen Warborn will take place on Tuesday 16 December at 15.00. You can follow it live.

Further information  Adopted text (16.12.2025)  Press conference with rapporteur (16.12.2025)  Procedure file  Legislative train

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Press release 16-12-2025 Plenary session   INTA   SEDE   BUDG Parliament to fast-track the reparations loan for Ukraine

Following the decision to apply its so-called urgency procedure, MEPs will vote on the proposal for a reparations loan to Ukraine at the January 2026 plenary session. On Tuesday Parliament backed, by a show of hands, a request to fast-track its legislative processes on draft legislation for a loan to Ukraine. The proposal would introduce an EU reparations loan for Ukraine, underpinned by the European Commission borrowing against the profits and cash balances generated by immobilised Russian state assets. This new instrument, if adopted, would support Ukraine’s financial needs and state budget, including military capabilities, as well as the country’s defence industry and its integration into the European Defence Industrial Base. The proposed loan is linked to the existing Ukraine Facility and Ukraine Loan Cooperation Mechanism. Following the decision to speed up the process, MEPs will adopt a position on the proposal, ahead of negotiations with member state governments, during the next plenary session, from 19 to 22 January 2026. Next steps With the European Parliament having kicked off its work, the proposal (part of a package) will also have to be approved by EU member states in the Council. EU heads of state and government are expected to try to reach a commitment on the way forward during the EU summit in Brussels on 18-19 December 2025.

Further information  EP Multimedia Centre: free photos, video and audio material

Press release 16-12-2025 Plenary session   JURI MEPs adopt new patent rules to ensure the supply of critical products in crises

• EU license allowing other company to produce patent-protected products in emergencies • Covers public health crisis and internal market emergency • Guaranteed financial compensation for patent-holders New rules aim to boost the EU’s technological sovereignty and competitiveness by securing access to key patent-protected products and technologies in emergency situations. On Tuesday, Parliament adopted new rules ensuring that emergency products covered by patents and similar intellectual property protection mechanisms become immediately available to EU countries during crises. For public health and internal market crises Following a declaration of a cross-border health crisis or internal market emergency, the European Commission will be authorised to issue special permission allowing the production of vaccines and other crisis-relevant products by other companies than the patent-holder. The new law will not apply to defence products. An EU compulsory license can only be used as a last resort in situations when even voluntary agreements to use a protected invention could not ensure access to crisis-relevant products. The scope and duration of the compulsory license will have to be clearly defined and limited to ensure the adequate supply of crisis-relevant products in the EU. Remuneration for patent owners and fines for obligation breaches Patent owners will be entitled to compensation for the use of their intellectual property, and the amount and timeframe of payments will be specified in the compulsory license. The new law also ensures that trade secrets will remain protected. The licensee or company given permission to produce patent-protected products will have to clearly label them and only produce such amount as are necessary to ensure an adequate supply in the EU. The export of such goods will be prohibited. Should a licensee breach their obligations, the Commission will be able to impose a fine of up to €300,000, and in the case of small or medium-sized enterprise of up to €50,000. Advisory body The Commission will be assisted in this process by a competent advisory body which will help to identify all intellectual property rights covering the crisis-relevant product, the corresponding right holders as well as potential licensees, gather their opinions and expert views, and facilitate exchange of information. Quote Following the plenary vote, rapporteur of the Legal Affairs Committee Adrián Vázquez Lázara (EPP, ES) said: "Today’s vote in Strasbourg sends a strong political message: Parliament is ready to act in times of crisis. As the only patents package regulation to be adopted, this file shows our ability to build consensus. This regulation equips Europe with a necessary last-resort tool to ensure access to critical products when citizens need them most." Next steps The regulation will enter into force 20 days after its publication in the Official Journal. Background In response to a European Parliament resolution of November 2021, which called on the Commission to assess the possibility of introducing compulsory licencing at the EU level, the European Commission presented a proposal in April 2023. It is a part of the EU patent package focusing on completion of the Single Market for patents.

Further information  Text adopted (16.12.2025)  Procedure file  EU compulsory licensing of patents for crisis management (8.12.2025)  EP Multimedia Centre: free photos, video and audio material

Press release 16-12-2025 Plenary session   IMCO Consumer rights: Parliament adopts new rules for out-of-court dispute resolution

• Alternative dispute resolution allows consumers and traders to resolve consumer disputes quickly and inexpensively without going to court • New measures to improve the participation of traders and raise consumer awareness • Third-country traders can also participate in resolution procedures The updated rules aim to increase consumer awareness and encourage greater business participation in out-of-court dispute solutions. Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) involves impartial, out-of-court bodies, such as conciliators, mediators, arbitrators, the ombudsmen and complaints boards, helping consumers and companies resolve issues amicably, in a fair and low-cost manner. The new rules, confirmed by Parliament on Tuesday, modernise the existing ADR rules for the digital economy, making it easier to resolve cross-border disputes and streamlining procedures for both consumers and businesses. Scope and third-country traders The rules clarify the scope of the ADR framework to consumer rights disputes stemming from a contract, including issues that occur before the contract (e.g. advertising and information provision) and after it ends (e.g. use of digital content). Considering that two out of five online transactions made by EU consumers are with traders established in third countries, the rules now allow for these traders to participate in ADR procedures. Boosting participation and ensuring trader accountability Unless specific EU law or national legislation imposes trader participation in out-of-court dispute resolution, businesses will continue to be free to decide whether to participate in alternative dispute resolution or not. To boost trader and consumer participation, member states should put in place measures encouraging out-of-court settlements, for example through information campaigns, certificates or financial incentives. In doing so, they should pay particular attention to sectors with a high number of consumer complaints, especially the transport and tourism sectors, including air passenger rights. The text introduces a duty for traders to respond whether they intend to engage in the proposed procedure when a consumer requests ADR intervention (where trader participation is not already mandatory). This period should not exceed 20 working days (30 in complex cases). A lack of a response will be treated as a refusal, allowing cases to be closed. Streamlining and user-friendly information The new measures allow ADR entities to bundle together similar cases against the same trader (with consumer consent), leading to faster and more coherent procedures. Member states shall ensure ADR entities maintain websites where consumers can easily find information on such procedures, as well as submit and track their complaints online. While automation can help speed up decision-making in dispute resolution, this must be transparent, and participants should be informed in advance about its use. To make ADR procedures more attractive and accessible for consumers, they should ideally be free of charge or their cost should at least not exceed nominal fees. Competent authorities will be tasked with monitoring the effective functioning and activities of ADR entities and their compliance. Whereas ADR contact points will have to be set up to assist, provide information and facilitate communication between involved parties. Quote Parliament’s rapporteur Laura Ballarín Cereza (S&D, ES) said: “This revision marks an important step forward for consumers’ rights, establishing a fair and effective ADR system. Extending the scope to cover third countries, greater transparency, and the introduction of clear response deadlines will make the dispute resolution process more accessible and trustworthy. The legislation also encourages member states to make the participation of high-complaint sectors like airline carriers mandatory. I look forward to its swift transposition and enforcement across the EU.” Background If a consumer has a problem with a product or service that they bought, for example if a trader refuses to repair a product or issue a refund, they have the option to settle the dispute out of court using an alternative dispute resolution procedure, a low-cost and simple alternative to court procedures. Each year, approximately 300,000 eligible disputes between consumers and traders are handled by ADR entities, with resolution rates ranging from 17% to 100% across the EU. Despite this, ADR uptake remains low, due in part to low consumer awareness, low trader engagement, coverage gaps, high costs and complex procedures in some member states. Next steps The directive will enter into force 20 days after its publication in the EU Official Journal. The provisions will start to apply 32 months after publication.

Further information  Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection  Procedure file  European Commission: Alternative dispute resolution  Adopted text (16.12.2025)

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Press release 16-12-2025 Plenary session   DROI   AFET   DEVE 2025 Sakharov Prize: Parliament honours Andrzej Poczobut and Mzia Amaglobeli

President Metsola awarded the 2025 Sakharov Prize to the representatives of the two journalists, who are imprisoned in Belarus and Georgia, at a ceremony on Tuesday in Strasbourg. At the award ceremony for the 2025 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought on Tuesday 16 December in Strasbourg, President Roberta Metsola said: "I am proud to award this year’s Sakharov Prize to journalists Andrzej Poczobut and Mzia Amaglobeli in recognition of their brave fight for freedom of expression and the democratic future of Belarus and Georgia. This House stands in solidarity with Mzia and Andrzej and calls for their immediate release from prison — because speaking truth to power must never be a crime." Andrzej Poczobut, journalist imprisoned in Belarus Andrzej Poczobut, journalist, essayist, blogger and member of the Polish minority in Belarus, was represented by his daughter, Jana Poczobut, who said to the MEPs: "It is a great honour to stand here today and accept this award on behalf of my father. (...) For almost five years now, my family has lived with silence, uncertainty, and the absence of someone we love. And today I want to express my deepest gratitude to the European Parliament for remembering him — and for remembering all families who live with the same unanswered questions." Referring to the case of Mikalai Statkevich, a prominent member of the Belarusian opposition who disappeared in September 2025, she added: "When we speak (their) names out loud, they stop being statistics. They become real again. And that is why your attention, the attention of the European Parliament, matters so much. It preserves human dignity where everything else tries to erase it." MEPs have adopted several resolutions condemning the repression in Belarus, demanding the release of political prisoners (estimated at over 1,200), denouncing President Lukashenka’s complicity with Russia in the war in Ukraine, and calling for tougher sanctions and support for Belarusian democratic forces, independent media and human rights defenders. Parliament is a strong supporter of the democratic opposition in Belarus and awarded it the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought in 2020. MEPs adopted a resolution on the case of Andrzej Poczobut in March 2023. Mzia Amaglobeli, journalist imprisoned in Georgia Mzia Amaglobeli, Georgian journalist, co-founder and director of independent media outlets Batumelebi and Netgazeti, was represented by her fellow journalist Irma Dimitradze who also works for Batumelebi. She read a speech from Mzia Amaglobeli to the Members: "I accept (this award) on behalf of my colleagues, the journalists who are now fighting in Georgia to save journalism as such. They work tirelessly to make sure that you hear the voice of resistance of Georgia’s citizens, that the truth is not silenced." Referring to the authorities in her home country, Mzia Amaglobeli wrote "This regime is ruthless (...). It destroys free journalism, abolishes opposition political parties and imprisons their leaders, effectively dismantles non-governmental organisations, labels those who work in them as “foreign agents (...). Yet it has failed to silence the protests. Perhaps this is why the European Union’s statements in support of the Georgian people have been stronger and more precise than ever. And for this, I am deeply grateful." After referring the Georgian people’s aspirations to EU membership, she concluded her speech underlining: "The fate of our struggle does not depend on us alone, because our struggle is not only about us. (...) Fight with us and for us. Fight as you would fight for the freedom of your own countries. Use every mechanism at your disposal and do so before it is too late." Regarding Georgia, a candidate for EU membership since 2023, MEPs have strongly condemned the significant democratic backsliding in the country and denounced repressive laws (such as the law on ‘foreign agents’), attacks on freedom of expression and the press, and the repression of peaceful protests. MEPs have also called for a rerun of the October 2024 elections, in which the ruling Georgian Dream party declared victory. They have denounced Russian influence in the country and demanded the release of detainees. MEPs nevertheless advocate for a membership perspective to be maintained, conditional on reforms and respect for the rule of law and ask for personal sanctions to be imposed on those responsible for the violence. A resolution was adopted in June 2025 on press freedom in Georgia and the personal case of Mzia Amaglobeli. Background Named after Soviet physicist and political dissident Andrei Sakharov, the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought is the EU’s highest distinction in the field of human rights. Since 1988, it has been awarded by Parliament to individuals, groups or organisations every year, in recognition of their work defending human rights, freedom of expression and democratic values. It includes €50,000 in prize money. Several journalists, media and press freedom organisations have received the Prize, including the non-governmental organisation Reporters Without Borders in 2005, the Belarusian Association of Journalists in 2004, the Algerian journalist and writer Salima Ghezali in 1997 and the popular newspaper Oslobodenje, which promoted a multi-ethnic vision of Bosnia and Herzegovina in 1993. Parliament also demonstrates its unwavering support for investigative journalism and the importance of press freedom by presenting annually the Daphne Caruana Galizia Prize for Journalism, in honour of the Maltese journalist assassinated in 2017. To find the list of all previous laureates and other information, please consult Parliament's Sakharov Prize website. The recording of the ceremony can be viewed on Parliament’s Multimedia Centre website.

Further information  Committee on Foreign Affairs  Committee on Development  Subcommittee on Human Rights  Recording of the press conference with EP President Roberta Metsola and the representatives of the laureates (16.12.25)  Sakharov Prize website  Press release - Andrzej Poczobut and Mzia Amaglobeli: laureates of the 2025 Sakharov Prize (22.10.25)  EPRS briefing - Laureates of the 2025 Sakharov Prize: Andrzej Poczobut and Mzia Amaglobeli, journalists fighting for democracy in Belarus and Georgia (4.12.25)  Multimedia products

Press release 15-12-2025 Plenary session Reminder: press conference on sustainability reporting and due diligence rules

Rapporteur Jörgen Warborn will brief journalists today at 15.00 on the updated simplification package for sustainability reporting and due diligence requirements. Seeking to boost competitiveness and cut red tape, Parliament is expected to greenlight the provisional agreement made with EU member states on simplifying sustainability reporting and due diligence rules for businesses. MEPs worked to reduce the pool of companies falling within the scope of the rules, ease sustainability reporting requirements and remove certain due diligence duties. Read more about the revamped rules here. Legal Affairs Committee (JURI) rapporteur Jörgen Warborn (EPP, SE) will brief journalists following the plenary vote on the agreed text, scheduled for 16 December 2025. WHEN: Today, Tuesday 16 December, 15.00 CET WHERE: European Parliament, Strasbourg, Daphne Caruana Galizia press conference room (Weiss N -1/201), Louise Weiss building and via Interactio, with interpretation to and from English, French, German, Italian, Spanish 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 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 live stream (16.12.2025)  Procedure file  Legislative train

Press release 15-12-2025 Reminder - Sakharov Prize 2025: press conference on Tuesday at 11.30

EP President Roberta Metsola will hold a press conference with the representatives of the 2025 Sakharov Prize laureates on Tuesday 16 December at 11.30 CET in Strasbourg. The following 2025 Sakharov Prize laureates representatives will be present at the press conference: - Anna Kietlińska, President of the Podlasie Branch of the "Polish Community" Association, representing the journalist Andrzej Poczobut, from Belarus ; - Irma Dimitradze, journalist at Gazeti Batumelebi, representing the journalist Mzia Amaglobeli, from Georgia. WHEN: Tuesday 16 December at 11.30 CET WHERE: European Parliament, Strasbourg, Daphne Caruana Galizia press conference room (Weiss N -1/201), Louise Weiss building and via Interactio, with interpretation in English, French, German, Polish, Italian, Spanish, Maltese, Georgian and Belarusian 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 The award ceremony takes place on Tuesday 16 December at 12.00 in the hemicycle in Strasbourg, after the press conference. 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 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. Background The European Parliament awarded the 2025 Sakharov Prize to Andrzej Poczobut and Mzia Amaglobeli, journalists currently imprisoned in Belarus and Georgia, respectively. European Parliament President Roberta Metsola announced the 2025 laureates in the Strasbourg plenary chamber on Wednesday 22 October.

Further information  Sakharov Prize website  Press release - Andrzej Poczobut and Mzia Amaglobeli: laureates of the 2025 Sakharov Prize (22.10.25)  EPRS briefing - Laureates of the 2025 Sakharov Prize: Andrzej Poczobut and Mzia Amaglobeli, journalists fighting for democracy in Belarus and Georgia (04.12.25)  Multimedia products - Sakharov Prize 2025

16-12-2025 Plenary session EP TODAY

Tuesday 16 December 2025 Sakharov Prize award ceremony President Roberta Metsola will award the 2025 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought to journalists Andrzej Poczobut from Belarus and Mzia Amaglobeli from Georgia. Both laureates are imprisoned in their respective countries and will be represented by others during the ceremony. A press conference with President Metsola and representatives of the laureates will take place before the plenary ceremony at 11.30 in Parliament's Daphne Caruana Galizia press conference room. The ceremony and the press conference will be broadcast on Parliament’s multimedia website and on EbS+. Representatives of the 2025 Sakharov Prize laureates plus other figures shortlisted for the prize will join a hybrid media seminar from 9.00 to 11.15. Elodie LABORIE (+ 32) 477 99 06 70 @EP_HumanRights Phasing out Russian natural gas A new law banning imports of Russian natural gas to protect the EU’s energy security from weaponisation by the Russian Federation is first on today’s agenda. The debate with Commissioner Dan Jørgensen starts at 9.00. The draft law has already been provisionally agreed between Parliament and Council negotiators. The vote will take place tomorrow, followed by a press conference with the co-rapporteurs. Baptiste CHATAIN (+32) 498 98 13 37 @EP_Industry Simplifying corporate sustainability reporting MEPs will vote at 12.30 on a provisional agreement reached with EU governments earlier this month to simplify sustainability reporting and due diligence requirements, for companies in general and for small and medium-sized companies in particular. A press conference with Parliament’s rapporteur is scheduled at 15.00. Martina VASS (+32) 477 99 11 57 @EP_Legal EU-Mercosur: additional safeguards for agricultural products Parliament’s position on a safeguard mechanism for agricultural imports from Mercosur countries will be put to a vote at 12.30. The draft regulation would allow the EU to temporarily suspend tariff preferences on agricultural products from Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay if these imports harm EU producers. If the text is adopted, negotiations with the Council on the final form of the legislation can start. Lieven COSIJN (+32) 473 864 141 @EP Trade Electricity grids, affordable housing and the automotive sector. The Commission will be presenting three separate policy proposals today. First, from around 11.00, Commissioner Dan Jørgensen will offer details on the brand new “grids package”, designed to boost electricity grid resilience and bring electricity prices down. Later, in two consecutive debates from 15.00, the Commission will present its European affordable housing plan and an automotive package. On affordable housing, Jørgensen is expected to outline a dedicated construction strategy and streamlined administrative procedures to accelerate the renovation of existing housing stock. The automotive package is meanwhile expected to include proposals for a possible revision of CO2 emissions standards for cars and vans, a strategy to boost the production of batteries for electric vehicles, and measures to stimulate demand for clean vehicles in corporate fleets. Baptiste CHATAIN (+32) 498 98 13 37 @EP_Industry Arianne SIKKEN (+32) 477 99 19 34 @EP SocialAffairs Gediminas VILKAS (+32) 470 89 29 21 @EP_Transport In brief Defence mobility and readiness. Two reports, on military mobility and on defence readiness, will be the subject of a joint debate, with Commissioners Apostolos Tzitzikostas and Henna Virkkunen, starting at 13.30. MEPs will vote on the reports tomorrow. My voice, my choice. MEPs will review a European citizens’ initiative on safe and accessible abortion, in a debate starting at around 17.30. Tomorrow at noon, they will vote on a related draft resolution calling on the Commission to establish an opt-in financial mechanism to enable participating EU countries to provide access for women from other member states to safe abortions. Hybrid attacks on Lithuania. In an evening debate with Commissioner Magnus Brunner, MEPs will discuss the continuing Belarusian hybrid attacks on Lithuania. They will vote on a resolution on Thursday. Artificial intelligence in the workplace. Last on today’s agenda is a debate with Commissioner Roxana Mînzatu on a proposal prepared by Parliament’s Employment and Social Affairs Committee for a new EU law to ensure the transparent, fair, and safe use of algorithmic management systems in the workplace. MEPs will vote on the proposal tomorrow. Votes At noon, MEPs will vote, among others, on: - a request to fast track the Commission proposal to establish the Reparations Loan to Ukraine - a text agreed with member states to simplify the common agricultural policy rules; - a first reading agreement on the ReArm EU omnibus, and - EU aid for workers in Sweden made redundant following the closure of Northvolt. 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 15-12-2025 SANT   Critical medicines: new measures to strengthen security of supply

• Boosting investment in new and existing EU manufacturing capacity • Critical medicines security fund • Stimulate cross-border procurements • Covers medicines such as antibiotics, insulin, vaccines, medicines for chronic diseases • Over 50% of reported medicine shortages are caused by manufacturing issues   On Monday evening, Parliament’s public health committee adopted its proposals to enhance the availability of key medicines in the EU. The draft bill, adopted with 27 votes in favour, one against and eight abstentions, aims to ensure a high level of public health protection for EU citizens by reducing the EU’s dependency on third countries and boosting the competitiveness of its pharmaceutical sector. Strategic projects and access to dedicated funding The draft text supports the creation of industrial “strategic projects'” in the EU to create, modernise and improve manufacturing capacity for critical medicines or their base substances. To promote a coordinated EU approach and to ensure legal certainty for project promoters, MEPs want the Commission to adopt guidelines for the assessment of projects. The report requires the EU, including through regional funding, and EU member states to prioritise financial support for strategic projects. MEPs also want a dedicated “critical medicines security fund” to be established within the EU’s next multiannual financial framework (MFF). Boost collaborative procurement of innovative, high-cost medicines MEPs want public procurement procedures to allow for the award of contracts to multiple suppliers for the same product to promote diversification of supply and ensure that production is distributed across different manufacturers and geographical locations within the EU. Contracting authorities should apply procurement requirements that favour producers manufacturing a significant proportion of critical medicines in the EU. The report highlights the benefits of voluntary collaborative procurements (e.g. three or more EU countries acting together, or joint procurement involving the Commission and at least five or more EU countries) to improve supply, notably for rare diseases medicines, antimicrobials, and other innovative, high-cost, or specialised treatments. Coordination and redistribution of national stockpiles MEPs call for the creation of an EU coordination mechanism for national stockpiles and contingency stocks of critical medicines. They also want the Commission to have the power to decide on, as a last resort, the redistribution of medicines from one national stockpile to one or more other countries, in instances where a shortage or a supply disruption of a critical medicinal product has been identified. Quote Rapporteur Tomislav Sokol (EPP, HR) said: “Today’s vote is a defining moment for Europe’s health security. We are committed to strengthening the availability and supply of critical medicines for all EU citizens. We are tackling persistent shortages and reducing our dependence on a limited number of external suppliers. The report sets out the strategic projects, collaborative procurement, and incentives needed to boost EU pharmaceutical manufacturing, while ensuring fair access to essential medicines like antibiotics, insulin, and pain treatments. It would bring us closer to a resilient, independent, and patient-centric pharmaceutical ecosystem that delivers stability and better care across the EU.” Next steps Parliament’s position is expected to be adopted during the January 2026 plenary session, after which negotiations with EU governments can begin. Background In March 2025 the Commission put forward a proposal for a regulation on critical medicines, to strengthen their availability in the EU. The proposal also aims to improve access to certain medicines of common interest that encounter market failures. Over 50% of reported medicine shortages are caused by manufacturing issues, including shortages in active substances.

Further information  Compromise amendments (adopted)  Procedure file  Legislative train  EP Research: Critical Medicines Act (May 2025)  Free photos, videos and audio material

Press release 15-12-2025 IMCO   SEDE   ITRE   ENVI   MEPs back new measures to strengthen Europe’s defence readiness

• Objective is to facilitate up to €800 billion in defence investment over four years • EU-wide time limit for the issuing of permits for defence projects • Easier procedures for intra-EU transfers and procurement • Simplified eligibility procedures for the European Defence Fund and specific measures for testing projects and actions in Ukraine   On Monday, MEPs from four committees approved new proposals to accelerate defence investment and improve the EU’s responsiveness in the face of security challenges. The set of legislative files, part of the so-called “Omnibus V” package of EU simplification measures, aims to speed up the approval of permits for defence projects and the export of defence equipment between EU countries, simplify security and defence procurement and EU cooperation on defence contracts, ensure that EU chemical regulations accommodate defence needs, and simplify the implementation of the European Defence Fund. These proposals also aim to facilitate up to €800 billion in defence investment over the next four years under the ReArm Europe Plan/Readiness 2030, allowing member states and the industry to react more effectively in response to escalating security challenges. Acceleration of permit-granting for defence readiness projects Agreeing on the need to accelerate permit-granting procedures for defence projects, such as the construction of new industry plants or expansion of existing facilities, MEPs want an EU-wide default time limit for permit decisions to be set at 50 working days. They say, however, that member states must be able to grant extensions of up to 25 working days for large projects and by 50 working days if a project is of exceptional complexity, raises exceptional risks for health, safety or environment, or specific national security clearance is required. Such extensions will be communicated to the project promoter, accompanied by an explanation of their reasoning and an expected decision date. If national authorities do not follow up by the applicable deadlines, the principle of tacit approval should apply, MEPs argue. The report also calls on EU countries to establish single points of contact for defence project promoters, with the digital tracking of applications, annual reporting to the Commission on permit activity and SME support, and EU monitoring of tacit approvals to ensure transparency and consistent implementation. Intra-EU transfers of defence-related products and simplified procurement MEPs back the Commission's approach to simplify intra-EU transfers and procurement of defence-related products. To speed up intra-EU transfers of defence products, EU countries should introduce more exemptions to often complex transfer licensing schemes, in particular transfers concerning the same company, and use simpler licensing arrangements (so-called general transfer licenses) to support innovation and the emergence of disruptive technologies. MEPs also stress the importance of facilitating transfers of defence products needed to implement EU funded projects. Members support a proposal to use the simpler so-called negotiated procedure (direct talks with suppliers, often bypassing open tenders, for urgent needs) for certain common procurements and innovative products and services, e.g. replenishing depleted stocks more quickly. When it comes to this procedure, MEPs want the use of components originating outside EU, EEA EFTA countries, Ukraine and countries that are part of a security and defence partnership with the EU to be limited to 35% of the estimated cost of the final product They also favour changing the rules so that only larger contracts are subject to existing EU procurement rules, allowing countries to focus their resources on the most critical contracts, and of relaxing the rules so that a contracting authority from one EU member state can join the procurement process of another. Facilitating defence investments and conditions for defence industry In the text, MEPs agree with proposals to simplify the management and implementation of the European Defence Fund (EDF). The committees backed reducing reporting and documentation requirements to boost the participation of SMEs and mid-sized businesses in the fund. They also propose simplifying the list of actions which can be eligible for EU funding and clarify that projects and actions funded by the EDF can be tested in Ukraine. MEPs further clarify how EU’s environmental and chemicals legislation, such as REACH, can apply to defence activities, saying that EU countries already enjoy flexibility in the use of existing exemptions to achieve defence readiness objectives. The have also added provisions for projects where production lines are used for both defence and civilian purposes. Quotes Quotes from committee chairs and co-rapporteurs are available here. Votes results The text on the acceleration of permit-granting for defence readiness projects was approved by 62 votes in favour, 6 against with 11 abstentions. The text on intra-EU transfers of defence-related products and simplified procurement was approved by 59 votes in favour, 13 against with 7 abstentions. The text on facilitating defence investments and conditions for defence industry was approved by 137 votes in favour, 30 against with 21 abstentions. Next steps Parliament’s plenary will have to endorse the adopted positions during a forthcoming session before negotiations with the incoming Cypriot Presidency of the Council can start on the final shape of the legislations. Background The EU’s Defence Readiness Omnibus package of proposals was presented by the Commission in June 2025. It is designed to simplify regulations and remove administrative hurdles to boost the European defence industry. It aims to speed up defence investments, enhance cooperation, and strengthen the European defence technological and industrial base (EDTIB) by making rules for procurement, financing, cross-border collaboration and permitting more flexible and efficient. It includes proposals for two regulations and one directive, as well as drafts of delegated regulations.

Further information  Procedure file (Acceleration of permit-granting for defence readiness projects)  Profile of SEDE co-rapporteur (Acceleration of permit-granting for defence readiness projects) Lucia Yar (Renew Europe, Slovakia)  Profile of IMCO co-rapporteur (Acceleration of permit-granting for defence readiness projects) Henrik Dahl (EPP, Denmark)  Procedure file (The simplification of intra-EU transfers of defence-related products and the simplification of security and defence procurement)  Profile of SEDE co-rapporteur (The simplification of intra-EU transfers of defence-related products and the simplification of security and defence procurement) Pekka Toveri (EPP, Finland)  Profile of IMCO co-rapporteur (The simplification of intra-EU transfers of defence-related products and the simplification of security and defence procurement) Anna-Maja Henriksson (Renew Europe, Finland)  Procedure file (Facilitating defence investments and conditions for defence industry)  Profile of SEDE co-rapporteur (Facilitating defence investments and conditions for defence industry) Sven Mikser (S&D, Estonia)  Profile of ITRE co-rapporteur (Facilitating defence investments and conditions for defence industry) Aura Salla (EPP, Finland)  Profile of ENVI co-rapporteur (Facilitating defence investments and conditions for defence industry) Antonio Decaro (S&D, Italy)

Press release 15-12-2025 Sakharov Prize 2025: press conference on Tuesday at 11.30

EP President Roberta Metsola will hold a press conference with the representatives of the 2025 Sakharov Prize laureates on Tuesday 16 December at 11.30 CET in Strasbourg. The following 2025 Sakharov Prize laureates representatives will be present at the press conference: Anna Kietlińska, President of the Podlasie Branch of the "Polish Community" Association, representing the journalist Andrzej Poczobut, from Belarus ; Irma Dimitradze, journalist at Gazeti Batumelebi, representing the journalist Mzia Amaglobeli, from Georgia. WHEN: Tuesday 16 December at 11.30 CET WHERE: European Parliament, Strasbourg, Daphne Caruana Galizia press conference room (Weiss N -1/201), Louise Weiss building and via Interactio, with interpretation in English, French, German, Polish, Italian, Spanish, Georgian and Belarusian 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 The award ceremony takes place on Tuesday 16 December at 12.00 in the hemicycle in Strasbourg, after the press conference. 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 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. Background The European Parliament awarded the 2025 Sakharov Prize to Andrzej Poczobut and Mzia Amaglobeli, journalists currently imprisoned in Belarus and Georgia, respectively. European Parliament President Roberta Metsola announced the 2025 laureates in the Strasbourg plenary chamber on Wednesday 22 October.

Further information  Sakharov Prize website  Press release - Andrzej Poczobut and Mzia Amaglobeli: laureates of the 2025 Sakharov Prize (22.10.25)  EPRS briefing - Laureates of the 2025 Sakharov Prize: Andrzej Poczobut and Mzia Amaglobeli, journalists fighting for democracy in Belarus and Georgia (04.12.25)  Multimedia products - Sakharov Prize 2025

15-12-2025 Plenary session EP TODAY

Monday 15 December 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. Boosting EU support for defence investment Part of the Commission’s ReArm Europe plan, agreed informally with the member states in November, will be discussed in an early evening plenary debate with Commission representatives. The idea is to allow EU funding to be rechannelled towards defence by amending the rules for existing EU programmes, such as the Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform, Horizon Europe, the European Defence Fund, Digital Europe and the Connecting Europe Facility. The final vote is tomorrow at noon. Also this evening, the committees on defence, industry, environment and internal market will adopt their positions on a series of legislative proposals to boost the EU defence industry by simplifying regulations and removing administrative hurdles. These include measures to encourage joint defence procurement, fast-track permitting procedures for infrastructure projects, ensure that chemical regulations accommodate defence needs, and improve access to financing. Baptiste CHATAIN (+32) 498 98 13 37 @EP_Industry Viktor ALMQVIST (+32) 470 88 29 42 @EP_Defence Simplifying rules for farmers From around 19.00, MEPs and the Commission will debate a draft law, also agreed informally with member states in November, making it easier for farmers to comply with the EU’s common agricultural policy rules. The text frees farmers from the costly and time-consuming compulsory ploughing of land every five to seven years while also protecting biodiversity. It also brings in a “once-only” principle for inspections, whereby farmers should not have to undergo more than one official on-the-spot check in any given year. Parliament will vote on the final text tomorrow at noon. Eliana CAPRETTI (+32) 473 33 25 82 @EP_Agriculture In brief Murder of Mehdi Kessaci and EU action against drug trafficking. Immediately after the opening of the session, MEPs will hear from the Commission on the murder of Mehdi Kessaci and the urgent need for ambitious EU action against drug trafficking. They will vote on a resolution on the subject in January. Medicine shortages. Later in the evening, plenary will discuss the impact of the geopolitical situation on European patients and their access to medicines, with the Commission. EU-Saudia Arabia relations. Last on today’s agenda is a debate on relations between the EU and Saudi Arabia. MEPs will vote on a resolution on the subject tomorrow. 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 15-12-2025 Debate with representatives of the 2025 Sakharov Prize laureates on Monday

The Foreign Affairs and Development committees and the Human rights subcommittee will hold an exchange of views with the representatives of the 2025 Sakharov Prize laureates. WHEN: Monday 15 December from 19.00 to 20.30 ECT WHERE: Louise Weiss building, Room S1.4, European Parliament in Strasbourg - WEISS (S1.4) Imprisoned journalists Andrzej Poczobut, from Belarus, and Mzia Amaglobeli, from Georgia, are the laureates of the 2025 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought. During the debate, held in association with Parliament’s delegations for relations with Belarus and the South Caucasus, Andrzej Poczobut will be represented by Anna Kietlińska, President of the Podlasie Branch of the "Polish Community" Association and Robert Tyszkiewicz, former Polish Sejm member and Polish rights advocate. Mzia Amaglobeli will be represented by Irma Dimitradze, journalist at Gazeti Batumelebi, and Hatia Jinjikhadze, Deputy Director of the Civil Society Foundation, that supports independent media outlets in Georgia. The extraordinary meeting will be webstreamed on the Parliament’s multimedia centre. Interpretation is requested for DE, EN, FR, IT, NL, DA, EL, ES, PT, FI, SV, CS, ET, LV, LT, HU, PL, SK, SL, BG, RO and HR. Background Andrzej Poczobut is a journalist, essayist, blogger and activist from the Polish minority in Belarus. Known for his opposition to Alexander Lukashenka's regime, he has become a symbolic figure in the struggle for freedom and democracy in Belarus. Detained since 2021 and sentenced to eight years, he has endured solitary confinement. In a resolution adopted on 15 March 2023, MEPs called for his immediate and unconditional release. Mzia Amaglobeli, a Georgian journalist and director of online media outlets Batumelebi and Netgazeti, is the first female political prisoner in Georgia since its independence, and a fighter for freedom of expression. Detained in 2025 and imprisoned for two years, Mzia Amaglobeli has become a prominent symbol of Georgia's pro-democracy protest movement. The European Parliament demanded on 19 June 2025 Mzia Amaglobeli's immediate and unconditional release and condemned the Georgian Dream authorities.

Further information  Committee on Foreign Affairs  Subcommittee on Human Rights  Committee on Development  Sakharov Prize website  Press release - Andrzej Poczobut and Mzia Amaglobeli: laureates of the 2025 Sakharov Prize (22.10.25)  EPRS briefing - Laureates of the 2025 Sakharov Prize: Andrzej Poczobut and Mzia Amaglobeli, journalists fighting for democracy in Belarus and Georgia (04.12.25)  Multimedia products

Press release 15-12-2025 Plenary session Press conference: updated rules on sustainability reporting and due diligence

Rapporteur Jörgen Warborn will brief journalists on 16 December at 15.00 on the updated simplification package for sustainability reporting and due diligence requirements. Seeking to boost competitiveness and cut red tape, Parliament is expected to greenlight the provisional agreement made with EU member states on simplifying sustainability reporting and due diligence rules for businesses. MEPs worked to reduce the pool of companies falling within the scope of the rules, ease sustainability reporting requirements and remove certain due diligence duties. Read more about the revamped rules here. Legal Affairs Committee (JURI) rapporteur Jörgen Warborn (EPP, SE) will brief journalists following the plenary vote on the agreed text, scheduled for 16 December 2025. WHEN: Tuesday 16 December, 15.00 CET WHERE: European Parliament, Strasbourg, Daphne Caruana Galizia press conference room (Weiss N -1/201), Louise Weiss building and via Interactio, with interpretation to and from English, French, German, Italian, Spanish 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 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 live stream (16.12.2025)  Procedure file  Legislative train

15-12-2025 Plenary session Press briefing on this week’s plenary session

European Parliament’s spokespersons will hold a last-minute briefing on the 15 - 18 December plenary session today at 16.30. When: Monday 15 December at 16.30 Where: Daphne Caruana Galizia Press room and via Interactio Key topics this week include: - Award of 2025 Sakharov Prize to Andrzej Poczobut from Belarus and Mzia Amaglobeli from Georgia - Debate on December EU summit - Final vote on phasing out Russian natural gas imports - Sustainability reporting and due diligence requirements: final vote - Final vote on changes to deforestation regulation - Mercosur trade deal: vote on safeguard mechanisms for agricultural imports - Debate on affordable housing across the EU - Debate on new measures to boost EU automotive sector competitiveness 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.