The Week Ahead 05 – 11 February 2024
Plenary session Strasbourg
Special EU summit. On Tuesday morning, MEPs will discuss the results of the latest EU summits, in particular the Special European Council of 1 February, with Presidents Michel and von der Leyen. The special summit focussed on the mid-term review of the EU’s long-term 2021-2027 budget (multiannual financial framework, MFF) and on financial aid for Ukraine.
Unwavering support for Ukraine. Following almost two years of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, MEPs are set to reaffirm the need for the EU to stand united behind Kyiv, in a debate with Council and Commission on Tuesday morning. A resolution will be put to the vote in the next plenary session (26-29 February in Strasbourg).
Situation of farmers. On Wednesday morning, MEPs will discuss with the Commission and the Belgian Presidency how to respond to the demands of farmers and rural communities across Europe and how to foster fairly rewarded EU agriculture.
New Genomic Techniques. Parliament will decide on its position for negotiations with EU countries on EU rules on new genomic techniques, which alter the genetic material of an organism. The objective is to make the food system more sustainable and resilient by developing improved plant varieties that are climate resilient, pest resistant, and give higher yields or that require fewer fertilisers and pesticides. (debate Tuesday, vote Wednesday)
Russian meddling in the EU. Following allegations that an MEP colluded with Russian security services, Parliament will discuss this case and other Russian attempts to interfere in the EU’s democratic processes on Tuesday. A resolution will be put to a vote on Thursday.
Ensuring instant payments in euro. MEPs are set to green light new rules to ensure transferred funds arrive immediately into the bank accounts of retail customers and businesses across the EU. (debate Monday, vote Wednesday)
Rise in antisemitism and anti-Muslim hatred. MEPs will discuss with the Council and Commission the worrying reports on the increase in hate-driven incidents online and offline across the EU on Wednesday.
State of EU values in Greece. On Wednesday, Parliament will vote on a resolution taking stock of threats to the rule of law and media freedom in Greece.
“This is Europe” debate/Klaus Iohannis. Romanian President Klaus Iohannis will address plenary on Wednesday at 11.00 to outline his vision on Europe’s challenges and future, followed by a debate with MEPs.
President’s diary. EP President Metsola will meet Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Monday afternoon. On Wednesday, she will meet with Romania’s President Klaus Iohannis, followed by a press point at 10.50, before Mr Iohannis addresses MEPs in the chamber. On Friday and Saturday, she will be in Malta.
Last-minute briefing. On Monday at 16.30, Parliament’s Spokesperson will hold a press briefing on the plenary session, which starts at 17.00. Political group briefings will take place on Tuesday morning.
