EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT,update

 

Press service European Parliament Press release 06-07-2026 Plenary session   SEDE   TRAN Military mobility: press conference on Wednesday at 10.30       Parliament’s co-rapporteurs Michał Szczerba and Roberts Zīle will brief journalists on new EU military mobility rules, ahead of possible interinstitutional talks. In June, the Transport and Tourism and Security and Defence Committees adopted their position on new EU military mobility rules, and decided to launch talks with the Council. The MEPs backed the plans to support the transport of military equipment, troops and assets across the EU to be better able to deter any possible aggression. They also advocated for swift digital military transport permit clearance, and enhanced cooperation with NATO allies. They supported the creation of a solidarity pool to close capability gaps, and a special military mobility response system during crisis. For interinstitutional talks to start, Parliament’s position needs plenary backing. The decision will be announced on Wednesday morning. When: Wednesday 8 July 2026, 10.30 CET. Where: European Parliament in Strasbourg, Daphne Caruana Galizia press conference room (WEISS N -1/201). Who: Parliament’s co-rapporteurs Michał Szczerba (EPP, PL) and Roberts Zīle (ECR, LV). How: Accredited media representatives are invited to attend the press conference in person. In addition, journalists can join the press conference and ask questions remotely via the Interactio platform. When connecting, enter your name and the media outlet 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, German, Italian, Polish and Latvian. The press conference will also be webstreamed live and recorded on the Parliament’s Multimedia Centre. You can follow it here. Further information  Committee on Transport and Tourism  Committee on Security and Defence  Webstreaming of press conference  Procedure file  EP Research Service briefing on military mobility (July 2025) Press release 06-07-2026 Plenary session  EP TODAY     Monday 6 July 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. Air passenger rights A debate with Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas on the agreement reached with Council to update the EU air passenger rights regulation is first on the agenda from around 17.30, immediately following the opening. Parliament negotiators resisted a push to weaken the rights of air passengers when flights are cancelled or delayed, or they are denied boarding. The deal improves ticket price transparency, and the rights of disabled passengers, and allows parents to sit next to their children at no extra charge. The rules had not been updated since 2004. MEPs will vote on the agreement as a whole tomorrow at noon, followed by a press conference. Gediminas VILKAS (+32) 470 89 29 21 @EP_Transport Coordination of social security systems New rules agreed with the Council to ensure access to social security for EU citizens living or working in another EU country will be the subject of a debate with Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskisfrom around 19.00. The focus is on five key areas: unemployment benefits, family benefits, long-term care benefits, access to social benefits for economically inactive mobile citizens, and posted workers and people working in two or more member states. MEPs will vote on the new rules tomorrow at noon, followed by a press conference. Arianne SIKKEN (+32) 477 99 19 34 @EP SocialAffairs In brief European Investment Bank. From around 18.30, MEPs will quiz European Investment Bank vice-president Robert de Groot on the group’s financial activities as set out in its 2025 annual report. East Asian geopolitics. A short presentation of a recommendation on the changing geopolitical situation in eastern Asia and the need for closer cooperation with like-minded partners in the region will round off the day’s proceedings from around 20.00, with Commissioner Teresa Ribera. Carbon border adjustment mechanism. The Environment Committee will vote this evening on a proposal to extend the EU's carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) to specific steel- and aluminium-intensive downstream products. MEPs will also vote on a separate proposal for a temporary decarbonisation fund to support decarbonisation investment in energy-intensive industries. EU-Mexico trade. The EU-Mexico interim trade agreement will be put to a vote in the International Trade Committee this evening, ahead of the plenary debate on Tuesday and plenary vote Wednesday. Live coverage of the plenary session can be found on Parliament’s webstreaming site and on EbS+. For detailed information on the session, please also see our newsletter. Find more information regarding plenary. Press release 06-07-2026 AFET   Parliament’s rapporteur for Türkiye acting as an observer at the trial of Ekrem İmamoğlu     On the eve of the NATO summit in Ankara, today marks the start of the decisive hearings in the trial of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu. Ekrem İmamoğlu, who is widely regarded as President Erdoğan's leading political rival, is facing charges that could result in more than 2,000 years in prison. Committee on Foreign Affairs standing rapporteur on Türkiye, Nacho Sánchez Amor MEP (S&D, Spain), participated in the hearing as an observer along with other international observers. After the hearing he said: “My attendance today, as rapporteur on Türkiye, at the hearings of different trials against Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu is a testimony of the strong solidarity of the European Parliament with him and all those in Türkiye who continue to defend democracy, the rule of law and fundamental freedoms under increasingly difficult circumstances, including the judicial attack on the main opposition party, CHP. Far from interference in Turkish internal affairs, my presence here is part of my mandate as rapporteur on a country which is still a candidate to the EU, as Turkish authorities like to stress. “I was deeply struck by Mr İmamoğlu's resilience and his determination before the court, despite having to face three separate cases on the same day, all related to proceedings that we consider to be politically motivated. It is obviously not a coincidence that all this takes place at the very moment when international attention is focused on the NATO summit, thus trying to avoid public and international scrutiny. “The contrast could hardly be more revealing. At a time when the international agenda is dominated by questions of security, as illustrated by the NATO summit, crucial court hearings are taking place in a prison that will determine the future of democracy in Türkiye. Leaders meeting this week in Ankara, particularly those from the EU and its member states, should not lose sight of what is unfolding in Silivri. Respect for democratic standards, judicial independence and the rule of law remain an essential component of Türkiye's credibility as a reliable partner for the present and for the future." For further information, please contact: Office of Mr Nacho Sánchez Amor, tel. +32 2 284 58 62, e-mail: nacho.sanchezamor@ep.europa.eu Further information  Committee on Foreign Affairs Available in       Press release 06-07-2026 Plenary session Opening: 6-9 July plenary session       • Plenary organisation   • Conduct in the chamber   • Srebrenica anniversary   • Venezuela earthquakes   President Metsola opened the 6-9 July plenary session with a moment of silence for the victims of the Venezuela earthquake. Plenary organisation President Roberta Metsola began by informing MEPs that the testing of new organisational measures designed to make plenary proceedings more engaging, efficient and effective would continue this session. Conduct in the chamber On the subject of conduct witnessed in the chamber during the June session, including aggressive chanting, jeering, finger-pointing and filming of Members, Metsola stated firmly that this was not acceptable, reminding MEPs that while discussions and votes can be controversial, “they must always be based on mutual respect and on tolerance. Aggressive behaviour damages this House’s reputation and undermines the values that we work so hard to uphold.” . The president went on to say that appropriate action would be taken to ensure that the scenes witnessed last month never happen again. Srebrenica anniversary Reminding MEPs that this week marks 31 years since the genocide in Srebrenica, Metsola remembered the thousands of Bosnian Muslims who were murdered and disappeared and the thousands forced into exile. “Their memory lives on in this House” she said, taking the opportunity to “reaffirm our commitment to peace, justice, and reconciliation in Srebrenica and beyond”. Venezuela earthquakes Speaking of the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela recently, Metsola expressed pride in the way that Europe has stepped up to help, through the Civil Protection Mechanism. “Europe will continue to stand with Venezuela” she said, before leading MEPs in a moment of silence to remember “those who are grieving and who are still waiting for news of loved ones”. Changes to the agenda President Metsola announced the following changes to the final draft agenda: Monday The debate on the short presentation on a recommendation on the changing geopolitical situation in East Asia and the need for closer cooperation with like-minded partners in the region is removed from the agenda. Parliament’s statements on recent violent and fatal attacks in Italy and Sweden and their implications for public security in Europe, with one round of political group speakers, is added at 19.45 before the one-minute speeches. Tuesday The following two reports are added to the votes on Tuesday: • the report by Vázquez Lázara on the request for the waiver of the immunity of Siegbert Frank Droese, and • the report by Dominik Tarczyński on the request for the waiver of the immunity of Ilhan Kyuchyuk. Wednesday Council and Commission statements on “defending European democracy and the integrity of the European Parliament in light of revelations that an MEP was subject to surveillance by illegal spy ware” are added from 19.00 to 20.00. As a consequence, the sitting is extended to 20.00. Urgent procedure The president announced a request to fast-track the following file under Rule 170(6): Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) 2021/1232 as regards the extension of its period of application (“ePrivacy derogation”) The vote on this request will take place on Tuesday. Interinstitutional negotiations The president announced the following requests by the Committees on Security and Defence (SEDE), Transport and Tourism (TRAN), Industry Research and Energy (ITRE), and Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) to start negotiations with the Council and the Commission: • SEDE/TRAN: Framework of measures to facilitate the transport of military equipment, goods and personnel across the Union • SEDE/ITRE: Establishing the programme for agile and rapid defence innovation (AGILE) • ITRE: Amendments to the Critical Raw Materials Act • ITRE: Acceleration of permit-granting procedures • ECON: Legal tender of euro banknotes and coins • ECON: Provision of digital euro services by payment services providers incorporated in Member States whose currency is not the euro • ECON: Establishment of the digital euro Members or political group(s) reaching at least the medium threshold may request in writing by Tuesday 7 July at midnight that the decisions to enter into negotiations be put to the vote. If no request for a vote in Parliament on these decisions is made within the deadline, the committees may start negotiations. Incoming MEPs Ufuk Kâhya replacing Bas Eickhout (NL / Greens/EFA) as of 30 June 2026. Further information  Video recording of the opening (click on 06.07.2026)  EbS+ (06.07.2026)  Final draft agenda  Plenary newsletter  Live broadcast of the plenary session  EP multimedia centre  President Metsola opened the 6-9 July plenary session in Strasbourg ©European Union, 2026 - Source: EP Available in       Press release 06-07-2026 ENVI   MEPs strengthen the EU’s carbon border adjustment mechanism and close loopholes       • Long list of downstream products added to carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM)   • Tougher anti-circumvention rules to prevent abuse   • A temporary decarbonisation fund to protect EU firms in export markets     Environment Committee MEPs have backed extending the EU's carbon border adjustment mechanism to downstream goods and setting up a fund to support industry's low-carbon transition. The Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety adopted its position on proposed changes to the CBAM by 56 to 11, with 12 abstentions. The MEPs agree with the Commission's proposal to extend the scope of CBAM beyond basic materials to a long list of downstream products – finished steel and aluminium goods such as fasteners, wire, springs and household articles – but insist it must be based on transparent, quantitative methodologies. They also added an exemption for electricity flows from non-EU countries used by grid operators to keep networks stable. Closing loopholes On anti-circumvention rules, the MEPs clarified that the practice of “slightly modifying” goods must also cover slight processing and tightened the rule so it targets only arrangements set up purely to dodge CBAM, and not normal business decisions to lower a company's costs. They also empowered the Commission to apply the true country of origin's default values where a pattern of circumvention is found. They deleted the Commission's proposed safeguard that would have allowed goods to be removed from the scope in the event of price shocks. The committee also wants new rules for online sales to close an online imports loophole. It recommends a single weight-based limit be applied to a seller's shipments as a whole, rather than parcel by parcel, with new reporting duties, and retroactive liability for shipments that are split to stay under the threshold. Finally, the MEPs propose simplified reporting for least-developed countries and a technical assistance framework, but removed the Commission's option to count Paris Agreement Article 6 carbon credits against CBAM obligations, since this issue is likely to be discussed in the context of the upcoming revision of the EU emissions trading system (ETS). Temporary decarbonisation fund The Environment Committee also adopted their position on the related temporary decarbonisation fund (TDF) to protect EU producers on export markets, by 59 votes to 16, with 6 abstentions. The MEPs want financial support from the TDF to run from 2027 to 2029 and not only from 2028 as proposed by the Commission. As fertilisers are a strategic input for food security, they also want to open the fund to fertiliser producers and downstream users facing higher carbon-related input costs, with products such as urea, ammonium nitrate and ammonium sulphate added to the list of eligible goods. Finally, all downstream operators – firms that use CBAM-covered goods as inputs in their production – should be eligible for support from the fund, while leftover revenue could be redirected to the EU's international climate finance commitments under the Paris Agreement instead of being returned to member states, as the Commission proposed. Quotes CBAM rapporteur Mohammed Chahim (S&D, NL) said: "This compromise makes the CBAM stronger, fairer and more resilient. We have closed important loopholes, strengthened enforcement against circumvention, and expanded the mechanism’s scope where it matters most. It is a balanced package that protects European industry as it decarbonises while safeguarding the environmental integrity of the mechanism." Rapporteur for the temporary decarbonisation fund Pascal Canfin (Renew, FR) said: "Today we have taken a big step towards making Europe a safe place for investment in decarbonisation: we are broadening product coverage to enhance the level playing field and we are setting out stronger anti-circumvention rules, notably against resource shuffling from China. We are also offering a more robust solution for our farmers hit by fertiliser costs, and an export scheme to protect our companies on export markets where their competitors do not pay a carbon price." Next steps Parliament is scheduled to adopt its mandate for negotiations with EU member states on the final shape of the bill during the September plenary session. Background The EU’s carbon border adjustment mechanism is the EU's tool to equalise the price of carbon paid for EU products operating under the ETS with that of imported goods, to reduce the risk of carbon leakage and to encourage greater climate ambition in non-EU countries. In 2025, Parliament adopted simplification measures to exempt 90% of importers from CBAM rules while still maintaining climate ambition, as 99% of CO2 emissions are still covered. Further information  Procedure file: Carbon border adjustment mechanism  Procedure file: Temporary decarbonisation fund  Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety Available in       Press release 06-07-2026 ENVI   MEPs strengthen the EU’s carbon border adjustment mechanism and close loopholes       • Long list of downstream products added to carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM)   • Tougher anti-circumvention rules to prevent abuse   • A temporary decarbonisation fund to protect EU firms in export markets     Environment Committee MEPs have backed extending the EU's carbon border adjustment mechanism to downstream goods and setting up a fund to support industry's low-carbon transition. The Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety adopted its position on proposed changes to the CBAM by 56 to 11, with 12 abstentions. The MEPs agree with the Commission's proposal to extend the scope of CBAM beyond basic materials to a long list of downstream products – finished steel and aluminium goods such as fasteners, wire, springs and household articles – but insist it must be based on transparent, quantitative methodologies. They also added an exemption for electricity flows from non-EU countries used by grid operators to keep networks stable. Closing loopholes On anti-circumvention rules, the MEPs clarified that the practice of “slightly modifying” goods must also cover slight processing and tightened the rule so it targets only arrangements set up purely to dodge CBAM, and not normal business decisions to lower a company's costs. They also empowered the Commission to apply the true country of origin's default values where a pattern of circumvention is found. They deleted the Commission's proposed safeguard that would have allowed goods to be removed from the scope in the event of price shocks. The committee also wants new rules for online sales to close an online imports loophole. It recommends a single weight-based limit be applied to a seller's shipments as a whole, rather than parcel by parcel, with new reporting duties, and retroactive liability for shipments that are split to stay under the threshold. Finally, the MEPs propose simplified reporting for least-developed countries and a technical assistance framework, but removed the Commission's option to count Paris Agreement Article 6 carbon credits against CBAM obligations, since this issue is likely to be discussed in the context of the upcoming revision of the EU emissions trading system (ETS). Temporary decarbonisation fund The Environment Committee also adopted their position on the related temporary decarbonisation fund (TDF) to protect EU producers on export markets, by 59 votes to 16, with 6 abstentions. The MEPs want financial support from the TDF to run from 2027 to 2029 and not only from 2028 as proposed by the Commission. As fertilisers are a strategic input for food security, they also want to open the fund to fertiliser producers and downstream users facing higher carbon-related input costs, with products such as urea, ammonium nitrate and ammonium sulphate added to the list of eligible goods. Finally, all downstream operators – firms that use CBAM-covered goods as inputs in their production – should be eligible for support from the fund, while leftover revenue could be redirected to the EU's international climate finance commitments under the Paris Agreement instead of being returned to member states, as the Commission proposed. Quotes CBAM rapporteur Mohammed Chahim (S&D, NL) said: "This compromise makes the CBAM stronger, fairer and more resilient. We have closed important loopholes, strengthened enforcement against circumvention, and expanded the mechanism’s scope where it matters most. It is a balanced package that protects European industry as it decarbonises while safeguarding the environmental integrity of the mechanism." Rapporteur for the temporary decarbonisation fund Pascal Canfin (Renew, FR) said: "Today we have taken a big step towards making Europe a safe place for investment in decarbonisation: we are broadening product coverage to enhance the level playing field and we are setting out stronger anti-circumvention rules, notably against resource shuffling from China. We are also offering a more robust solution for our farmers hit by fertiliser costs, and an export scheme to protect our companies on export markets where their competitors do not pay a carbon price." Next steps Parliament is scheduled to adopt its mandate for negotiations with EU member states on the final shape of the bill during the September plenary session. Background The EU’s carbon border adjustment mechanism is the EU's tool to equalise the price of carbon paid for EU products operating under the ETS with that of imported goods, to reduce the risk of carbon leakage and to encourage greater climate ambition in non-EU countries. In 2025, Parliament adopted simplification measures to exempt 90% of importers from CBAM rules while still maintaining climate ambition, as 99% of CO2 emissions are still covered. Further information  Procedure file: Carbon border adjustment mechanism  Procedure file: Temporary decarbonisation fund  Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety       Press release 07-07-2026 Plenary session EP TODAY     Tuesday 7 July Air passenger rights Parliament is set to confirm at noon the first update to the air passenger rights regulation since 2004. Parliament’s negotiating team resisted a push to weaken air passengers’ rights when flights are delayed or cancelled, while securing improvements to the rights of disabled passengers and parents travelling with children. A press conference with Andrey Novakov (EPP, BG), rapporteur, and Virginijus Sinkevičius (Greens/EFA, LT), vice-chair of the Committee on Transport and Tourism is scheduled at 14.00. Gediminas VILKAS (+32) 470 89 29 21 @EP_Transport Irish presidency of the Council Taoiseach Micheál Martin will present Ireland’s Council presidency priorities to plenary in a debate with Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič starting at 10.30. Under the banner “Strength with Unity”, Ireland is focusing on three policy pillars: competitiveness, values, and security. Reaching agreement on the EU’s long-term budget for 2028 to 2034 will be an overarching priority. A press conference with Micheál Martin and Parliament’s president Roberta Metsola will take place at 13.00. Eoghan WALSH (+32) 485 39 94 43 @EuroParlPress Enlargement: Ukraine, Moldova, Serbia Three consecutive debates with Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos on the accession pathways of Ukraine, Moldova and Serbia start at 16.30. First in line is Ukraine, followed by Moldova at 18.30 and ending with Serbia at 19.30. Parliament will vote on its respective reports tomorrow at noon. Press conferences with the standing rapporteurs for Serbia and Moldova will follow the votes. Snjezana KOBESCAK SMODIS (+32) 470 96 08 19 @EP_ForeignAff EU-Mexico partnership Before voting tomorrow, MEPs and Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič will debate two agreements paving the way for closer political ties and expanded trade between the EU and Mexico. The EU-Mexico modernised global agreement (MGA) will replace the current framework, in place since 2000. The interim trade agreement (iTA), would allow for the updated trade arrangements to apply earlier and expire once the MGA fully enters into force. A press conference with the rapporteurs will take place tomorrow after the votes. Janis KRASTINS (+371) 26 54 23 69 @EP Trade In brief Automotive sector. MEPs start the day at 9.00 with a debate with Commission executive vice-president Stéphane Séjouné on the need for urgent measures to strengthen the automotive sector’s competitiveness and safeguard quality jobs. Cybersecurity and AI. MEPs will quiz Commission executive vice-president Henna Virkkunen on the Commission’s brand new cybersecurity and AI action plan in a scrutiny session starting at 15.00. Social security coordination. An informal agreement on new rules to ensure access to social security for EU citizens living or working in another EU country will be put to a vote at noon. A press conference with rapporteur Gabriele Bischoff (S&D, DE) is scheduled at 15.00. Fertiliser prices. At noon, Parliament is set to adopt changes to the common agricultural policy rules proposed by the Commission to help farmers affected by the rising costs of fertilisers. Compliance of ESN party with EU values. Parliament will also vote on whether to request the Authority for European Political Parties and European Political Foundations to verify whether Europe of Sovereign Nations political party complies with EU values. ePrivacy derogation to detect child sexual abuse. In a vote at noon, MEPs will decide whether to apply the urgent procedure to a proposal to reinstate a derogation to the ePrivacy Directive to allow internet platforms to detect child sexual abuse. If agreed, the vote on the substance of the proposal will take place later this week. Votes At noon, MEPs will also vote, among others, on: • mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund for Spain, Romania and Cyprus with regard to natural disasters in 2025; • whether to extend the term of office of the Special Committee on the Housing Crisis in the EU, and adjust its responsibilities; • whether to waive the immunity of Klára Dobrev (S&D, HU); • proposals for a coherent tax framework for the EU's financial sector; • an own-initiative report on digital assets and the challenges they pose for the EU’s financial system; • the 2025 annual report on the financial activities of the European Investment Bank Group; • a recommendation on the changing geopolitical situation in East Asia and the need for closer cooperation with like-minded partners in the region; and • an own-initiative report on a new strategy for media literacy and digital learning. 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.     This message was sent to v.ch.maria@gmail.com

European Parliament

Available in              Press release 07-07-2026 Plenary session Parliament requests verification of ESN party’s compliance with EU values       • Registration and funding as a European political party are tied to conditions established to protect democracy and the EU budget   • The independent Authority for European Political Parties and European Political Foundations is responsible for assessing compliance   Reacting to the competent authority’s letter setting out doubts about ESN’s compliance with EU values, MEPs voted in favour of starting the verification procedure. On Tuesday, Parliament decided by 414 votes to 224 and 18 abstentions to request the Authority for European Political Parties and European Political Foundations (APPF) to verify whether the Europe of Sovereign Nations (ESN) political party complies with the registration and funding conditions laid down in the Regulation on the statute and funding of European political parties and foundations. The procedure was triggered after the APPF — the independent EU authority responsible for registering, controlling, and sanctioning European political organisations — informed Parliament, the Council and the Commission of facts casting doubt on ESN's compliance with EU values, as it is required to do. The three institutions have two months to decide whether to lodge a verification request. Parliament's vote is a procedural step and does not constitute a position on the substance. Next steps The independent authority will now verify ESN’s compliance with core EU values, such as democracy, the rule of law, and respect for human rights (a prerequisite for registration as a European political party) in line with the procedure set out in Article 13 of the regulation. Democratic scrutiny is key in this process: decisions to deregister a political party can only enter into force in the absence of an objection by the Parliament or the Council. Background Although a political group under the same name exists in Parliament (i.e. MEPs who sit and vote together in the chamber), the parliamentary group is legally and functionally distinct from the ESN political party, which is subject to separate EU rules. Under Article 10(4) of the Treaty on European Union, European political parties are key instruments for forming European political awareness and expressing the will of Union citizens. This is the first time this procedure has been initiated. The revised EU regulation on European political parties and foundations, which Parliament approved in October 2025, tightened up the rules on transparency, foreign interference, and the protection of European values. Further information  Procedure file  Deal on new rules for European political parties and foundations (17.6.2025) Available in                              Press release 07-07-2026 Plenary session   TRAN European Parliament achieves upgrade to air passenger rights       • Securing existing compensation after three-hour flight delay   • Clearer procedure for compensation claims   • Price transparency and comparability of air tickets     Faster and simpler compensation process for delayed flights, fee-free child seating and air fares inclusive of carry-on luggage will become part of EU air passenger rulebook. On Tuesday, MEPs confirmed the changes to air passenger rights rules agreed with the Council of the EU in the Conciliation Committee by 646 votes to 12 and three abstentions. In force since 2004, these rules seek to ensure that passengers are sufficiently protected against travel disruption, such as denied boarding and delayed or cancelled flights. Securing existing rights MEPs managed to defend the central right of passengers to be reimbursed or re-routed in case of cancellation. They will also continue to be able to claim compensation for delays of more than three hours, if a flight is cancelled less than 14 days in advance, or if a passenger is denied boarding. Compensation levels for delayed or cancelled flights are maintained and will depend on flight distance: €250 for journeys up to 1,500 km, €400 for intra-EU journeys of more than 1 500 km and other journeys between 1,500 km and 3,500 km, and €600 for all other longer journeys. Air carriers will have the possibility to reduce compensation by 50% for their longest journeys if passengers are offered re-routing to their final destination following travel disruption, or if the delay at arrival does not last more than four hours. Airlines will be able to avoid paying compensation if the delay or cancellation was caused by events beyond their control. The new rules will have an open list of these extraordinary circumstances, including natural disasters, war, weather conditions, unruly passengers, or airport, air navigation or ground handling service provider strikes. In all cases air operators will still have a duty of care for stranded passengers including providing refreshments every two hours of waiting time, a meal after three hours, and, if needed during long delays, overnight accommodation (for up to of three nights if the disruption is beyond the airline’s control). Easier reimbursement and compensation MEPs insisted the reimbursement process become quicker and easier. Passengers opting for a reimbursement instead of being rerouted will receive it automatically, while passengers facing travel disruptions will receive clear instructions on how to submit a request for compensation within four days of the termination of their journey. MEPs ensured that passengers will not be obliged to have a user account or a specific application to receive this information. Air passengers will have nine months to file a compensation request, while airlines will have 30 days to pay the compensation or invoke extraordinary circumstances, explain why compensation will not be provided and refer passengers to complaint handling steps. Adding more passenger rights Air passengers will be able to take the return flight of a two-way ticket even if they did not use the first flight, without incurring an additional fee. The new rules now include the right to carry on board, without extra cost, one personal item, such as a small bag or backpack. To improve price transparency and comparability, MEPs insisted on obliging airlines, intermediaries and search portals to always display the air fare inclusive of carry-on luggage at the outset of the booking process. Airlines may offer cheaper tickets for passengers who decide to travel without hand luggage, the text says. Air passengers will no longer be charged additional fees for correcting name spelling errors or for a printed version of a boarding pass if they have already checked in. MEPs also secured passengers the right to obtain boarding passes digitally upon check-in, without any further request or obligation to have a user account or a specific application. In addition, passengers shall not be denied boarding on the grounds that they used their own printed version of a digitally issued boarding pass. Protecting vulnerable passengers MEPs ensured passengers with disabilities and reduced mobility will have the right to compensation, rerouting and assistance by airlines if they miss a flight due to the airport’s failure to help them reach the gate on time. They also made sure that families with kids are not separated during seating, by obliging air carriers to place any person accompanying a child below the age of 14 on an adjacent seat without paying extra. The same right will apply to passengers with disabilities and reduced mobility, and to pregnant women. Quotes Transport and Tourism Committee Vice-chair Virginijus Sinkevičius (Greens, LT) said: “We have good news for everyone who flies. We worked hard to make sure passengers did not lose the rights they already had, while securing better protection for families, people with reduced mobility, and others who need it most.” Rapporteur Andrey Novakov (EPP, BG) stressed: “Today's vote is a win - for both passengers and European aviation. After more than 13 years of deadlock, we are finally replacing uncertainty with clear rules, stronger rights and confidence. When people take a plane, their rights will not be left behind on the ground."  Next steps Under the third reading procedure, once the provisional agreement reached in the Conciliation Committee is approved by Parliament, it will have to be confirmed by Council by the beginning of August 2026. The updated rules would enter into force 20 days after publication in the Official Journal of the EU. From that moment the EU countries and companies will have one year to prepare for their implementation. Further information  The joint text of agreement  Webstreaming of press conference (7 July at 2 pm)  EP legislative train on air passenger rights rules  Procedure file  Extracts from plenary debate (06-07.07.2026)  MEPs resisted a push to weaken air passenger rights Ⓒ Jacob Lund/ Adobe Stock Available in                         Press release 07-07-2026 Plenary session   AGRI Fertiliser prices: MEPs approve support for farmers     On Tuesday, Parliament adopted measures designed to alleviate the impact on EU farmers of rising fertiliser prices. MEPs decided to fast-track the changes to the EU common agricultural policy (CAP)asproposed by the Commission, to ensure farmersget aidin time tobuy fertilisers for the nextgrowingseason. To prevent a decline in production or food quality and growing prices for consumers, farmers will be able to receive liquidity support worth up to 80% of the additional fertiliser costs they incur. EU countries will also have the possibility to increase advances on direct payments from 70% to 75%and pay them to affected farmersdirectly aftertheyapply for them (and not only after 16 October as defined by the current rules).Member States willalsohave moreflexibilityto adjust theirdirect paymentsbudgetsfor next year. The rules proposed by the Commission were adopted with 576 votes in favour, 62 against and 15 abstentions. Next steps The text now needs to be formally adopted by Council and published in the Official Journal before it can enter into force the day after. Background Fertiliserpriceshave adirect impact on food production as fertilisers account for up to 16% of input costs for farmers. The EU relies on imports for30% ofthenitrogen-based fertilisersand 70% ofthephosphatic fertilisers used for agricultural production.EU fertiliserproductionmeanwhilerelies on natural gas.Both fertiliserpricesandenergyprices have beenrisingdue torecent geopolitical events, such as Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraineand,more recently,thesituation in the Middle East,and in particulartheclosure of the Strait of Hormuz. Further information  Procedure file  European Parliament research: Temporary CAP support to help farmers cope with high fertiliser prices  Commission website about fertilisers  Commission: Development of fertiliser prices in the EU over time  Free photos, video and audio material (food security)  Parliament approves help for farmers affected by the rising costs of fertilisers © Adobe Stock / N Felix/peopleimages.com Media advisory 06-07-2026 Press briefing on this week’s plenary session     The European Parliament spokesperson will hold a last-minute briefing on the 6-9 July plenary session today at 16.30. WHEN: Monday 6 July at 16.30 WHERE: Daphne Caruana Galizia press room and via Interactio Key topics this week include: • Debate and vote on improving air passenger rights • Debate on Irish Council presidency priorities with Taoiseach Micheál Martin • Debate on the outcome of the 18-19 June European Council meeting • Debate on protecting people against recurring heatwaves and upcoming wildfires • Final vote on coordinating EU member states’ social security systems • Vote on help for farmers affected by rising fertiliser costs • Debate and vote on the EU-Mexico partnership and interim agreement on trade • Debate on measures to strengthen the automotive sector and its competitiveness and protect jobs • Debate and vote on the progress of Ukraine, Moldova and Serbia towards EU membership • Debate on the new action plan on cybersecurity and AI • Debate on how to support civil society, anti-war actors and independent media in Russia Interpretation of the press briefing will be available in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish and Polish. You can follow it live from 16.30 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/pressconfp1254698545582 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. Available in       Press release 07-07-2026 Plenary session   CULT Strengthen media literacy and digital learning across the EU, say MEPs       • Citizens must be equipped to recognise manipulative content, addictive design and AI-generated products   • Influencers and content creators should be subject to media content rules   • Social media platforms are the main source of information for young people   EU coordination is needed to protect citizens and democracies within the digital environment given its global and cross-border nature, according to the European Parliament. In a resolution adopted on Tuesday, with 447 votes in favour, 128 against and 78 abstentions, MEPs state that media literacy and digital learning are basic skills for all citizens and should therefore be promoted throughout the entire education path and beyond, in the workplace, within lifelong learning and through a whole-of-society approach. Recognising addictive design, persuasive techniques and AI-generated content Media literacy and digital learning are crucial to empower citizens for safer navigation through the digital environment, enabling them to identify disinformation, foreign information manipulation and interference, cyberbullying and other forms of online harm, say MEPs. They encourage cooperation between public and private organisations for the promotion of media literacy across the EU, ensuring that the use of digital learning tools in education is free from undue commercial influence and that cooperation with the private sector is guided by the public interest. Media literacy policies should empower people of all ages to understand how platform design may contribute to their understanding of information, according to Parliament, which wants citizens to be able to recognise addictive design and emotionally manipulative content. Media literacy and digital learning programmes could also help users to distinguish between editorial, commercial and synthetic content, identify persuasive techniques, and recognise AI-generated content. A media ecosystem that protects minors and clearer rules for influencers In the framework of the evaluation of the Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD), MEPs call for further measures to protect minors who use video-sharing platforms. Given “their significant role in shaping information consumption patterns, particularly among young people”, MEPs also want influencers and content creators to be subject to media content rules, with codes of conduct and clear guidelines. Quote “Democracies cannot leave citizens to face disinformation, addictive design and the commercial interests of big platforms on their own. Media literacy and digital learning must become basic skills for everyone, at all ages. Europe must equip people to understand the digital environment and navigate it safely, and set out clear rules for platforms, influencers and AI-generated content in public life and education,” said rapporteur Marcos Ros Sempere (S&D, ES). Background According to the European Commission, 97% of young people in the EU use the internet daily and social media platforms are becoming the main source of information for young people aged 15 to 24. There are significant differences between EU countries’ approaches to media literacy and digital learning, in terms of school curricula, the level of financial support and the competent authorities or bodies involved, as education policies are a national competence. Further information  Text adopted (7.7.2026)  File procedure  Press release on the vote in committee (3.6.2026)  EPRS briefing: Media literacy: Fostering a key civic skill in a digital information environment (27.5.2025)  Public hearing: Enhancing media literacy in the digital age (8.4.2025)  Video of the public hearing: Enhancing media literacy in the digital age (8.4.2025)  Committee on Culture and Education   Press release 07-07-2026 Plenary session   ENVI   DEVE Sustainable Development Goals: alarm at $4 trillion investment gap       • Progress on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030 is seriously off track   • The next EU long-term budget must align with the SDGs   • EU leadership is crucial in the context of US cuts to aid and development funding   MEPs have adopted their report on the implementation and delivery of the SDGs ahead of the UN’s July 2026 High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development. On Tuesday, the European Parliament adopted, by 374 votes in favour, 185 against, and 74 abstentions, a report that will form the basis of the European Parliament’s position for the UN High-Level Political Forum in New York on 7-15 July, which a delegation of MEPs is attending next week. In the report, MEPs acknowledge that the global community is severely off track in its efforts to achieve the SDG targets by the 2030 deadline. They are alarmed by the annual investment gap of approximately $4 trillion in funding needed to achieve them, a gap exacerbated by declining official development assistance (ODA) levels across the world. They want the EU and its member states to honour their funding commitments and reinforce their leadership role to fill the huge financing gap, including that left by the suspension of most USAID funding under the current US administration. Additional EU funding needed MEPs argue that the EU should support its efforts to achieve the SDGs through ambitious financial commitments in the EU’s next long-term budget, covering the 2028-2034 period. They want the EU and member states to provide additional financing for climate change mitigation and adaptation as well as loss and damage, as agreed at COP 29, and to further investigate opportunities to raise funding through the involvement of the private sector and the leveraging of private finance. The Global Gateway initiative remains, MEPs say, the EU’s flagship instrument to strengthen sustainable partnerships and deliver high-quality infrastructure, while promoting international standards and long-term economic and social development in partner countries. The report highlights the numerous policy areas covered by the SDGs – water and sanitation, urban development, energy, climate mitigation and adaptation, among others – where progress is lacking or regressing, a context exacerbated by escalating conflicts, geopolitical tensions, health and humanitarian emergencies, and the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. However, MEPs welcomed progress on, for example, SDG 7 on energy, which has been achieved largely by the rapid expansion of renewable energy production around the world. The EU should, MEPs say, continue its leadership role in pursuing the implementation of the SDGs in the EU and worldwide. Next steps A joint delegation of MEPs is travelling to New York to attend the High-Level Political Forum on 13-15 July. Further information  Committee on Development  Committee on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety  Text of the report Available in         Press release 07-07-2026 Plenary session MEPs debate Irish Presidency priorities with Taoiseach Micheál Martin       On Tuesday, Micheál Martin set out Ireland’s priorities: to enhance EU competitiveness, values, and security, under the banner of “strength with unity”. Welcoming Ireland’s Taoiseach, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola said, “We are entering a critical six months for our continent. With the Irish Presidency's leadership and focus on competitiveness, security and values, we are pulling in the same direction. The coming months are an opportunity to act together on some transformative files and deliver the progress people demand of us. The European Parliament will be a trusted partner." On competitiveness, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said the Presidency will work to eliminate barriers, tackle unnecessary regulatory burdens, and boost internal market trade. On external trade, the Irish Presidency will seek to build an EU-US trade and investment relationship that benefits both, and work for a close and constructive partnership with the UK. The Presidency will continue to deepen the EU’s trade relationships with partners such as India, Australia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand and the United Arab Emirates. The Irish Presidency will work with MEPs, Martin said, to conclude the European grids package, as part of their focus on enhancing Europe’s security of supply and the development of sustainable, affordable, and secure energy systems. Ireland will aim to complete accession negotiations with Montenegro, to make substantial progress with Moldova and Ukraine, and to advance the countries of the Western Balkans along their EU accession trajectories as far as they are ready to go. The Irish Presidency will, the Taoiseach said, continue to support EU efforts toward stability in Lebanon, Syria, and the wider Gulf region, as well as reaffirming the EU’s long-standing commitment to a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict. Describing the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the West bank as dire, Mr Martin said Europe must do more. On security, he said the Presidency would continue its unwavering support for Ukraine, and that political, financial, military and humanitarian support for the country must be coupled with ever-increasing pressure on Russia, including tighter and stronger sanctions. The Irish Presidency will support deep collaboration to build European resilience, particularly in the face of sophisticated hybrid threats, and to advance maritime and cyber security. The Taoiseach said he believed agreement in the Council on the EU’s next long-term budget can be achieved by the end of 2026, and that the Irish Presidency will set out its thinking on this in a new negotiating box in the autumn. Response of MEPs In their responses, MEPs welcomed the Irish Presidency’s focus on competitiveness, security and European resilience, expressing support for priorities aimed at strengthening the EU’s economy and strategic autonomy. Competitiveness featured prominently throughout the debate, with speakers calling for higher productivity, lower regulatory burdens, affordable energy and progress on the single market, while enlargement was identified as a key geopolitical priority. The EU’s next long-term budget was also raised by several speakers, with MEPs debating how to balance investment in defence and competitiveness with continued support for cohesion policy, the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy and social priorities. There were references to migration and climate issues too, while a number of speakers brought up housing, support for Ukraine, the rule of law, and online safety for children. Further information  A recording of the debate is available online  Irish Presidency website  Irish Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, presents the Irish Presidency of the Council programme in Strasbourg July 2026. © European Union 2026 - EP   Press release 07-07-2026 AFET Press conference on the European Parliament’s report on Serbia Standing rapporteur for Serbia Tonino Picula will hold a press conference on Wednesday. Following the vote, Tonino Picula (S&D, HR) will comment on Parliament’s position on the 2025 Commission report on Serbia and answer questions from journalists. When: 15.00 - 15:30, Wednesday, 8 July 2026 Where: Daphne Caruana Galizia press conference room, European Parliament, Strasbourg, and remotely How: Accredited media representatives are invited to attend the press conference in person. In addition, journalists can join the press conference and ask questions remotely via the Interactio platform. 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. You can also follow it via Parliament’s webstreaming (livestream and video-on-demand) Interpretation will be available in English, French, German, Italian, Polish and Croatian. Background The enlargement reports are the European Parliament’s response to the annual Commission reports on EU membership candidate and potential candidate countries. Resolutions adopted in plenary represent the European Parliament's official position as regards EU relations with these countries. Further information  Committee on Foreign Affairs  Procedure file: 2025 Commission report on Serbia  EPRS: 2025 Commission report on Serbia