With more than 95% of the EU’s expenditure managed by the European Commission, MEPs generally endorse its budgetary management (by 438 votes in favour, 167 against and 5 abstentions), but they criticise the high error rate in the 2022 spending. This rose to 4.2%, up from 3% in 2021 and 2.7% in 2020, prompting MEPs … Read more
In a resolution adopted on Thursday with 336 votes in favour, 163 against and 39 abstentions, MEPs want to enshrine the right to abortion in the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights – a demand they have made several times. MEPs condemn the backsliding on women’s rights and all attempts to restrict or remove existing protections … Read more
The new directive and regulation on the gas and hydrogen markets aim to decarbonise the EU’s energy sector, enhancing the production and integration of renewable gases and hydrogen. These measures are designed to secure energy supplies disrupted by geopolitical tensions, particularly the Russian war against Ukraine, and address climate change. In negotiations with Council on … Read more
Reform of the energy and electricity markets: debate and final vote At 9.00, MEPs will debate with Commissioner Reynders the reform of the EU electricity market to protect consumers from sudden price shocks, as well as new rules to facilitate the uptake of renewable and low-carbon gases, including hydrogen, on the EU’s gas market. The … Read more
On Wednesday, MEPs approved (with 429 votes in favour, 148 against, and 47 abstentions) the report implementing the recommendations by the Parliamentary reform group “Parliament 2024”, as endorsed by the Conference of Presidents (EP President Metsola and political group chairs) in December 2023. The reforms will improve Parliament’s functioning as a co-legislator, arm of the … Read more
Parliament on Wednesday adopted its position on the Commission proposal for a Soil Monitoring Law, the first-ever dedicated piece of EU legislation on soils, with 336 votes to 242 and 33 abstentions. MEPs support the overall aim to have healthy soils by 2050, in line with the EU Zero Pollution ambition and the need for … Read more
With 469 in favour, 112 against and 37 abstentions, MEPs endorsed a temporary extension of the current e-Privacy derogation that allows the voluntary detection, by internet platforms, of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) online. The derogation will be extended until 3 April 2026 so that an agreement on the long-term legal framework to prevent and … Read more
Solemn sitting with His Majesty King Philippe At 12.30, His Majesty King Philippe, King of the Belgians, will address MEPs in a formal sitting, to mark the Belgian Presidency of the Council of the EU. Before his address, EP President Metsola and King Philippe will have a bilateral meeting. Arianne SIKKEN (+32) 477 99 19 … Read more
