This week, the European Parliament (EP) will engage in a series of critical events and discussions that underscore its commitment to addressing urgent global and European issues.
From Ukraine’s ongoing conflict to climate action and preparations for the upcoming plenary session, here is a comprehensive overview of the EP’s agenda, as published by the European Parliament’s press service.
President Zelensky to Address Parliament Amidst War
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will address the European Parliament, from Ukraine, in an extraordinary plenary session marking 1,000 days since Russia’s full-scale invasion.
This significant event will take place on Tuesday at 11:00, with European Parliament President Roberta Metsola delivering an opening statement. Following Zelensky’s address, leaders of the political groups will share their reflections and reaffirm the EU’s unwavering solidarity with Ukraine.
Finalising Commissioner-Designate Hearings
As part of the EU’s institutional processes, the European Parliament is in the final stages of evaluating Commissioner-designate hearings.
Once all committee evaluation letters are submitted, the Conference of Committee Chairs will assess the outcomes and forward recommendations to the Conference of Presidents. This body, comprising President Metsola and political group leaders, will conduct the final evaluation and determine whether the hearings process can be concluded.
This rigorous process underscores the Parliament’s commitment to ensuring accountability and transparency in appointing high-ranking EU officials.
COP29 and Climate Diplomacy
A delegation from the European Parliament will attend the UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, taking place from Monday to Friday. This year’s discussions focus on establishing a new collective financial goal to support global climate action.
Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) are advocating for major and emerging economies with high emissions and GDP to contribute more significantly to climate financing.
They are also urging the EU to intensify its green diplomacy, positioning itself as a global leader in tackling the climate crisis.
Hungarian Presidency Priorities in Focus
Hungary’s priorities during its rotating EU Council presidency will be under scrutiny as two key ministers engage with EP committees this week. Finance Minister Mihály Varga will discuss economic and monetary affairs on Monday, while Culture and Innovation Minister Balázs Hankó will address innovation and industry on Thursday.
These discussions will provide MEPs with insights into Hungary’s approach to economic development, innovation, and its overall leadership during its Council presidency.
Preparations for the November Plenary Session
MEPs are gearing up for the upcoming Strasbourg plenary session scheduled for November 25-28th. Highlights of the session include:
- Debate on the new European Commission: President-elect Ursula von der Leyen will present her programme, followed by a vote on the approval of the full Commission.
- 2025 EU Budget: MEPs will debate and vote on the proposed budget, focusing on funding priorities for the Union.
- Elimination of Violence Against Women: Marking the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the Parliament will discuss and adopt measures to combat gender-based violence.
- Children’s Rights and Anti-Discrimination Measures: The agenda includes debates on strengthening children’s rights within the EU and evaluating existing legislation to protect LGBTQI communities against discrimination.
President Metsola’s Schedule
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola will undertake a series of high-profile engagements throughout the week:
- Monday: She will address the Secretaries-General of EU member state parliaments and host North Macedonian Parliament President Afrim Gashi and Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu.
- Wednesday: Metsola will speak at the 30th anniversary of the EU’s Committee of the Regions.
- Thursday: She will visit Paris to meet France’s Assemblée Nationale President Yaël Braun-Pivet, Prime Minister Michel Barnier, and participate in the 6th Trilateral Business Forum.
- Friday: Metsola will conclude her week in Malta, addressing the Malta Diversity and Inclusion Charter Conference.
These engagements highlight Metsola’s role in strengthening inter-parliamentary relations, promoting EU values, and advancing key legislative priorities.
