Brussels:

Briefing

Plenary Session 16-19 September 2024

Strategic Dialogue on the Future of EU Agriculture

Monday at 17:15

In her State of the Union address in September 2023, President Ursula von der Leyen announced the Strategic Dialogue on the Future of EU Agriculture, which was officially launched in January 2024. This initiative brought together 29 key stakeholders from the European agri-food sectors, civil society, rural communities, and academia to develop a shared vision for the future of farming and food systems in the EU.

On 4 September 2024, President von der Leyen received the final report of the dialogue, titled "A Shared Prospect for Farming and Food in Europe", from Professor Peter Strohschneider, the group's chair. The report outlines the key challenges and opportunities for EU agriculture and offers a series of recommendations.

These will guide the European Commission in shaping EU Vision for Agriculture and Food, to be delivered in the first 100 days of von der Leyen's second mandate.

This is the reason why the European Parliament decided to discuss this item in its first Plenary.

Key Points of the final Report for the debate:

1. Importance of EU Farmers:
   • Farmers are essential for ensuring food security for Europe’s 450 million people.
   • They are central to Europe’s food self-sufficiency, supporting jobs and sustainable rural growth.
   • Farmers play a key role in the green transition, helping reduce environmental impacts while producing safe, healthy, and affordable food.
2. Challenges Faced:
   • Climate change is putting severe pressure on agricultural productivity, with extreme weather events impacting crops.
   • Economic challenges include competition in a global market, high inflation, the effects of Russia's war in Ukraine, and the energy crisis.
   • The average age of EU farmers is 57, highlighting the need for generational renewal in the sector.
3. Strategic Dialogue on the Future of EU Agriculture:
   • The Strategic Dialogue, announced by President Ursula von der Leyen in September 2023, involved 29 key stakeholders from the agri-food sector, civil society, and academia.
   • Its final report, "A Shared Prospect for Farming and Food in Europe", presented on September 4, 2024, provides a roadmap for shaping a new vision for EU agriculture.
   • The recommendations from this report will help guide the European Commission's work in supporting a sustainable and resilient future for farming and food systems.
4. Current EU Initiatives:
   • The new Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), launched in 2023 with €300 billion in funding, aims to encourage more sustainable and resilient agricultural practices.
   • Special incentives for farmers include payment for storing carbon and measures to support smaller farms, with over €4 billion annually being redirected to smaller-scale operations.
   • The EU has also provided €500 million in emergency assistance in 2023 for farmers affected by crises like natural disasters and market shocks.
5. Support for Farmers:
   • The EU is reducing the administrative burden on farmers and improving their position in the food chain by combating unfair trading practices.
   • Two surveys have been launched to gather farmers' views on these issues and to identify ways to simplify rules and procedures.

The EU recognizes the crucial role of farmers in ensuring food security and sustainability. The Strategic Dialogue presents a shared vision for addressing current challenges, fostering resilience, and shaping the future of farming and food systems across Europe.
This discussion should focus on ensuring that EU policies continue to support farmers in adapting to climate change, reducing administrative burdens, and maintaining Europe's leadership in sustainable agriculture.

Need to prevent security threats like the Solingen attack through addressing illegal migration and effective

Monday at 18:15

The Solingen attack, a tragic incident that highlighted the vulnerabilities in the European security frameworks, underscores the need for comprehensive strategies to prevent similar events in the future. To enhance the safety of EU citizens, the European Parliament must address the challenges posed by illegal migration and implement effective security measures.

Key points for discussion:

1. Strengthening Border Controls: The EU needs to improve its border security systems, focusing on the identification and control of illegal migration. This includes reinforcing external border surveillance, expanding the capacity of Frontex, and ensuring real-time data sharing among Member States to prevent unauthorized entry.
2. Tackling Illegal Migration: Addressing illegal migration is essential for preventing security risks. Measures should include enhanced screening processes, faster asylum decisions, and efforts to combat human trafficking. Comprehensive policies should also offer safe and legal migration routes to reduce the demand for dangerous and illicit paths.
3. Combating Radicalization: Alongside migration controls, the EU must work on counter-radicalization efforts within its borders. This includes early identification of radicalized individuals and investment in social integration programs that provide education, employment, and inclusion opportunities for migrants, especially those at risk of marginalization.
4. Cooperation with Third Countries: The EU should strengthen cooperation with countries of origin and transit to address the root causes of illegal migration, such as conflict, poverty, and political instability. Enhanced diplomatic and development partnerships can help reduce the migration pressure on the EU.
5. Improving Security Coordination: The attack in Solingen revealed gaps in coordination between law enforcement agencies across Member States. The EP should discuss the improvement of information sharing through agencies like Europol and increase cross-border cooperation in counterterrorism and crime prevention efforts.

By addressing these key areas, the European Parliament can reaffirm that migration policies are both humane and effective, while simultaneously enhancing the security of the EU and preventing tragedies like the Solingen attack from happening again.

This discussion is crucial to strike a balance between upholding human rights and maintaining security, ensuring that Europe remains a place of safety and opportunity for all.

Persistent problems of anti-Semitism in Europe and of other forms of hate speech and hate crimes

Monday at 19:15

After a Commission statement, the EP will debate this item.

Anti-Semitism and other forms of hate speech and hate crimes remain persistent challenges in Europe, threatening the core values of tolerance, diversity, and human dignity that the EU upholds. Despite numerous initiatives, the rise of hate-fueled incidents across Member States calls for a renewed and robust response from European institutions and governments.

Key points for discussion:

1. Rising Incidents of Anti-Semitism and Hate Crimes:
   • In recent years, Europe has witnessed a worrying resurgence of anti-Semitic attacks, ranging from physical violence to the desecration of Jewish sites and online hate speech. Similar trends are seen in other forms of xenophobia, racism, Islamophobia, and attacks on LGBTQ+ communities.
   • The normalization of hate speech in public discourse and online platforms has fueled this resurgence, creating an environment where hate is tolerated, and in some cases, even incited.
2. Enhancing Legal Frameworks:
   • The European Parliament should discuss the need for stronger legal frameworks to combat hate speech and hate crimes. This includes enforcing existing laws and closing loopholes that allow perpetrators to escape justice.
   • Special attention must be paid to online hate speech, where regulation and enforcement remain challenging. Cooperation with social media platforms is essential to ensure swift removal of harmful content and to hold those who spread hate accountable.
3. Education and Awareness:
   • Combating hate requires a focus on education and raising awareness. The European Commission and Member States must prioritize educational programs that promote tolerance, cultural understanding, and historical knowledge, particularly on the Holocaust and other instances of discrimination.
   • Awareness campaigns at both the national and EU levels should emphasize the dangers of hate speech and discrimination, countering extremist narratives with messages of inclusion and respect for diversity.
4. Support for Victims:
   • Victims of anti-Semitism and hate crimes often face barriers to reporting incidents and accessing justice. The EU should strengthen support systems for victims, including easier reporting mechanisms, psychological support, and legal assistance.
   • Member States must ensure that law enforcement agencies are adequately trained to handle hate crimes, both in terms of investigation and victim support.
5. Cross-Border Cooperation and Data Sharing:
   • Hate crimes and hate speech are transnational issues that require enhanced cooperation between EU Member States. The Parliament should push for better data collection on hate crimes across Europe, ensuring comprehensive and comparable statistics to inform future policy decisions.
   • Stronger collaboration between law enforcement agencies, judicial authorities, and civil society organizations is crucial to ensure that hate crimes are effectively addressed, regardless of where they occur.

The persistent problem of anti-Semitism and other forms of hate speech and hate crimes requires a coordinated, multi-faceted approach at the EU level. By strengthening legal protections, promoting education, and supporting victims, the European Parliament can take decisive action to reaffirm its commitment to a Europe free from hatred and discrimination. Addressing this issue is not only a legal and political imperative but also a moral one, ensuring that all European citizens can live in a society rooted in respect, equality, and justice.

Global measures towards social media platforms - Strengthening the role of DSA and protecting democracy and freedom in the online sphere

Tuesday at 10:00

The increasing role of social media in shaping public opinion, spreading information, and influencing democratic processes requires proactive governance. The European Commission has recognized the challenges posed by social media platforms, particularly regarding the spread of disinformation, hate speech, and the manipulation of public opinion. As part of this effort, the Digital Services Act (DSA) and other Commission initiatives aim to ensure that online spaces remain secure, transparent, and aligned with European democratic values.

Key points for discussion:

1. Commission Initiatives to Counter Social Media Misuse:
   • The European Commission has launched several initiatives aimed at holding social media platforms accountable for the harmful effects of their services. These initiatives emphasize transparency, responsibility, and content moderation to combat illegal and harmful content such as hate speech, disinformation, and terrorist propaganda.
   • Code of Practice on Disinformation: This voluntary code, established in 2018, brought together platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Google to commit to measures to curb disinformation. The Commission is now working to strengthen this code, making it more enforceable and binding under the DSA.
   • European Democracy Action Plan: Announced in 2020, this plan focuses on safeguarding the EU’s democratic systems from manipulation through social media. The action plan proposes measures to combat disinformation, enhance media literacy, and ensure the transparency of political advertising on social platforms.
   • Terrorist Content Regulation: The Commission has introduced new rules requiring platforms to remove terrorist content within one hour of notification. This regulation is part of a broader effort to prevent the use of social media for promoting violence, radicalization, and extremism.
2. DSA and Enhanced Accountability:
   • The Digital Services Act (DSA), one of the Commission’s flagship legislative efforts, is designed to regulate online platforms, addressing illegal content, and providing users with greater control over their online experience. Under the DSA, social media platforms face stricter obligations to detect and remove harmful content while ensuring transparency in content moderation decisions.
   • The DSA also empowers national authorities to enforce compliance and provides the European Commission with the ability to impose fines and sanctions on platforms that fail to meet their obligations. The European Commission is committed to making sure that platforms are held accountable for the way they moderate content, use algorithms, and manage data.
3. Curbing the Spread of Disinformation:
   • The Commission’s initiatives focus on the spread of false information, particularly disinformation campaigns that aim to influence elections, incite hatred, or destabilize societies. By requiring platforms to identify and curb disinformation while promoting trustworthy content, the Commission seeks to preserve the integrity of democratic processes.
   • The European External Action Service (EEAS), alongside the Commission, monitors and counters foreign interference in the digital space. Disinformation from foreign actors, particularly in the context of elections, is a significant threat, and the Commission is working to strengthen measures to detect and prevent such influence.
4. Regulating Political Advertising:
   • Political campaigns increasingly rely on social media platforms to reach voters, but the lack of transparency in how political ads are targeted has raised concerns. The Commission has proposed legislation to ensure that political advertising on social media is transparent and traceable, requiring platforms to disclose who funded the ads and how audiences were targeted.
   • This initiative aims to protect democratic processes from manipulation by ensuring voters are aware of the source of political messaging and can make informed choices.
5. Improving Algorithmic Accountability:
   • The European Commission is focusing on algorithmic transparency, requiring platforms to explain how their recommendation systems work and how they influence the spread of content. Algorithms play a significant role in amplifying polarizing or harmful content, and greater transparency will help mitigate the risks of echo chambers and radicalization.
   • By demanding platforms provide users with more control over the content they see and allowing independent audits of algorithmic systems, the Commission’s measures seek to empower citizens and make platforms more accountable for the societal impact of their technologies.
6. Supporting Media Literacy and Public Awareness:
   • The Commission recognizes that media literacy is crucial in helping citizens identify disinformation and navigate the digital landscape responsibly. Several initiatives promote public education campaigns, aimed at building resilience against manipulation and fostering critical thinking.
   • Collaboration with educational institutions and civil society organizations is crucial for empowering citizens to recognize and challenge disinformation and hate speech, while understanding how online platforms operate.

The European Commission’s initiatives, including the Digital Services Act (DSA), the Code of Practice on Disinformation, and the European Democracy Action Plan, represent a comprehensive framework to regulate social media platforms, protect democracy, and curb online harms. However, more needs to be done to ensure these regulations are effectively implemented and enforced. The European Parliament must advocate for robust accountability, cross-border cooperation, and continuous updates to these frameworks to address the evolving digital landscape, ensuring the online sphere remains a space of freedom, security, and democratic integrity.

Address by Mario Draghi - Presentation of the report on the Future of European competitiveness

Tuesday at 13:30 and debate at 14:00

Mario Draghi's 2024 Competitiveness Report provides a comprehensive analysis of Europe's economic future, identifying critical challenges and proposing ambitious solutions. The report emphasizes the need for massive investments of €750-800 billion annually, focusing on sectors like decarbonization, digitalization, and defense to maintain Europe’s competitiveness in a global market dominated by the U.S. and China. Key recommendations include closing the innovation gap, securing supply chains, and fostering cooperation between public and private sectors.

The report has received mixed reactions. The financial sector and business leaders largely welcomed the call for increased investment, seeing it as essential to restoring Europe's competitive edge. However, green groups criticized the report for not going far enough on climate action. Organizations like Climate Action Network (CAN) Europe argue that Draghi's proposals lack the boldness needed to address the climate emergency. They advocate for a stronger emphasis on a green industrial policy and more robust commitments to decarbonization and renewable energy.

In addition, some observers have pointed out the political challenges in implementing Draghi’s ambitious agenda, particularly concerning joint borrowing and overcoming vested national interests within the EU. While the report outlines a detailed strategy, achieving consensus among Member States could be a significant hurdle in the coming years

Dowload the Report.

State of the Energy union

Tuesday at 15:30

On 11 September 2024, the European Commission published the 2024 State of the Energy Union Report, highlighings the significant progress made by the European Union (EU) in enhancing energy security, affordability, and sustainability.

Key achievements include:

• Renewable Energy Milestone: In the first half of 2024, 50% of the EU's electricity was generated from renewable sources. Wind energy overtook gas to become the second largest electricity source after nuclear.
• Reduced Dependence on Russian Gas: The share of Russian gas in EU imports dropped from 45% in 2021 to 18% by mid-2024, with increased imports from trusted partners like Norway and the U.S.
• Energy Security: The EU reached its 90% gas storage target for the winter of 2024-2025 ahead of schedule, contributing to a more stable energy market.

However, challenges remain, particularly in areas such as energy efficiency and building renovation. The report calls for stepped-up efforts to meet the 2030 target of reducing final energy consumption by 11.7%. Additionally, Member States are urged to finalize their National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs) to ensure the collective achievement of EU climate and energy goals.

The report also underscores the importance of industrial alliances (e.g., European Battery Alliance, Clean Hydrogen Alliance) in driving the clean energy transition and enhancing EU competitiveness in net-zero technologies. Moreover, it emphasizes ongoing support for Ukraine's energy sector, including the synchronization of its electricity grid with the EU​(

This progress reflects the EU’s commitment to achieving climate neutrality by 2050 while addressing immediate energy security concerns triggered by geopolitical events like Russia's war in Ukraine.

Download the 2024 State of the Energy Union Report

War in the Gaza Strip and the situation in the Middle-East

In his next debate on Tuesday at 16:30 in Strasbourg, Josep Borrell could expand on several critical issues to further the EU's diplomatic and humanitarian efforts regarding the Gaza conflict and the Middle East:

1. Call for an Immediate Humanitarian Truce:
   • Borrell could advocate for a humanitarian truce to allow unrestricted access to aid for civilians in Gaza. This would build on his previous calls for a pause in hostilities but with a clearer focus on facilitating humanitarian corridors for essential supplies such as food, medicine, and water​ (EEAS Europe).
2. Proposal for a Broader EU-Led Peace Initiative:
   • He might introduce a more concrete plan for a Preparatory Peace Conference, involving key international players like the EU, U.S., UN, Arab League, and regional powers such as Egypt and Jordan. This would aim to not only de-escalate tensions but also lay the groundwork for long-term peace talks​ (euronews).
3. Focus on Strengthening Diplomatic Engagements:
   • Borrell could underscore the need for sustained diplomatic pressure on both Israel and Palestine to engage in dialogue. He may also propose enhancing the EU’s role as a mediator, leveraging its position as a neutral party committed to a two-state solution.
4. Addressing the Broader Regional Impact:
   • He could also touch upon the risk of the conflict spilling over into neighboring countries, particularly Lebanon and Syria. Borrell may emphasize the EU’s commitment to regional stability by supporting Lebanon’s fragile political situation and ensuring that the conflict does not destabilize other parts of the Middle East​ (Multimedia Centre and EEAS Europe).
5. Ensuring Accountability:
   • In response to civilian casualties, he could push for greater accountability under international humanitarian law, calling for independent investigations into war crimes committed by both sides. This would help prevent further escalations and ensure justice for the victims​ (EEAS Europe).
6. Continued Support for a Two-State Solution:
   • He may reaffirm the EU’s long-standing support for a two-state solution, with a renewed focus on strengthening Palestinian institutions while condemning Hamas as a terrorist organization​ (euronews).

By incorporating these points, Borrell can present a more detailed strategy that could demonstrate the EU will for a leadership in peacebuilding while addressing both the immediate humanitarian crisis and long-term conflict resolution.

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During the last European Parliament debate on the War in the Gaza Strip and the broader Middle East situation, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell outlined the EU's position and initiatives. He emphasized the catastrophic humanitarian and political consequences of the conflict, condemning the ongoing violence and highlighting the urgent need for a ceasefire.

Borrell reiterated that Israel has the right to defend itself following the brutal terrorist attacks by Hamas, but also stressed that this right is bound by international humanitarian law, especially in the face of escalating civilian casualties. He underlined that both Israeli and Palestinian civilians are victims of this conflict, calling for humanity and consistency in addressing the war's impacts.

Borrell also presented the EU’s initiatives to alleviate the humanitarian crisis, including over €100 million in aid for Gaza. He supported a pause in the hostilities to allow for more humanitarian assistance to reach those in need. He further proposed a 10-point roadmap aimed at a sustainable peace solution for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which includes a Preparatory Peace Conference involving key international actors to pave the way for peace negotiations.

The debate highlighted the will for promoting peace in the region, condemning Hamas' actions while advocating for a balanced approach that also addresses Palestinian suffering and the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza​ (Multimedia Centre and EEAS Europe)

Situation in Venezuela

Tuesday at 17:30 and vote on Thursday at 12:00

Josep Borrell is expected to further address the ongoing political and humanitarian crisis in the country. His focus will likely include the illegitimacy of Nicolás Maduro's regime, emphasizing the EU’s stance that the recent 2024 Venezuelan elections lacked democratic credibility. Borrell may reiterate the EU’s rejection of the election results, highlighting systematic human rights abuses under Maduro’s government, including arbitrary detentions, repression of political opposition, and severe restrictions on freedoms​ (El Carabobeño and El Debate)

Borrell is also expected to call for stronger international pressure and sanctions against those responsible for the ongoing violations. He may stress the importance of supporting the Venezuelan opposition and civil society in their fight for democratic restoration. Additionally, Borrell is likely to propose increased humanitarian aid to address the severe economic and refugee crisis, which has forced millions of Venezuelans to flee their country​ (El Debate).

The debate will serve as a platform to further explore the EU's role in facilitating dialogue between opposition leaders and regional actors, as well as ensuring that free and fair elections are held in the near future​ (El Carabobeño and EEAS Europe).

Motion for Resolution to be voted on Thursday at 12:00

MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group
B10-0025/2024

MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on behalf of the PfE Group
B10-0027/2024

MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on behalf of The Left Group
B10-0030/2024

MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on behalf of the Renew Group
B10-0034/2024

MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on behalf of the S&D Group
B10-0035/2024Documents :

MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION behalf of the ECR Group
B10-0037/2024

Presentation of the programme of activities of the Hungarian Presidency

Wednesday at 9:00

The Hungarian EU Presidency's programme, which Prime Minister Viktor Orbán will present next Wednesday, focuses on seven key areas, emphasizing a "Make Europe Great Again" vision.

The presidency, which runs from July to December 2024, is expected to highlight:

1. Boosting EU Competitiveness: Hungary will push for the adoption of a new European Competitiveness Pact, focusing on enhancing the EU’s economic standing in the global market.
2. Strengthening European Defense Policy: The presidency aims to improve the EU’s defense capabilities through better defense industry cooperation and innovation.
3. Curbing Illegal Migration: Hungary will advocate for stronger external border control, more efficient returns of irregular migrants, and a reformed asylum system.
4. Merit-Based EU Enlargement: Orbán's government will focus on Western Balkan enlargement, promoting a faster and more credible accession process.
5. Reforming Cohesion Policy: There will be a strategic debate on how to better structure EU cohesion policies to address regional inequalities.
6. Support for Farmers: A farmer-centered agricultural policy will aim to safeguard food sovereignty and ensure fair livelihoods for farmers across the EU.
7. Addressing Demographic Challenges: Tackling Europe’s demographic decline is also a priority, with a focus on policies encouraging family growth and addressing labor shortages.

Amid these ambitious goals, Orbán’s presidency will likely face strong political contestation, especially on issues like rule of law and migration, where Hungary's policies have diverged sharply from mainstream EU values. There will also likely be criticism from progressive and liberal MEPs who oppose Hungary's hardline stances, particularly on human rights and democratic governance. The presentation is expected to be contentious, reflecting ongoing tensions between Hungary and other EU institutions​ (Hungary Today, Consilium Europa, Multimedia Centre).

Hungary, under Orbán’s leadership, has faced increasing criticism from other EU Member States and institutions, particularly regarding issues related to rule of law, media freedom, democratic backsliding, and human rights. These concerns have led to frequent confrontations between the Orbán government and the EU, which will likely surface during the presentation.

Key Issues Expected:

1. Rule of Law and Democratic Backsliding:
   • The EU has long been critical of Hungary’s track record on judicial independence, freedom of the press, and the treatment of civil society. The Hungarian Presidency will likely be challenged on these issues, particularly given ongoing Article 7 procedures and conditionality mechanisms that have been triggered against Hungary for rule of law breaches.
   • MEPs from various groups, particularly the Greens, Liberals, and Social Democrats, are expected to raise concerns over Hungary's governance, questioning Orbán’s commitment to EU values.
2. EU Funding and Transparency:
   • Hungary has faced the suspension of EU funds over corruption and transparency issues. Orbán is likely to face questions on how his government plans to address these financial concerns and ensure proper use of EU funds during its presidency.
3. Foreign Policy Stance and Relations with Russia:
   • Hungary's foreign policy, particularly its close relations with Russia, is another point of contention. As the EU seeks to present a united front against Russian aggression in Ukraine, Orbán’s government has maintained a more cautious and sometimes opposing stance, which is expected to be heavily criticized during the debate.
   • His position on sanctions against Russia may also be questioned, especially in the context of the EU’s broader geopolitical strategy.
4. Social Policies and Human Rights:
   • Orbán’s policies on LGBTQ+ rights, migration, and minority rights are likely to provoke strong reactions, particularly from more progressive MEPs. His government's anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and hardline stance on immigration have been at the center of criticism from both civil society and EU institutions.

Possible Reactions and Contestations:

• Liberal and Progressive MEPs: Representatives from groups such as Renew Europe and the Socialists & Democrats are expected to be vocal in their opposition, questioning Hungary’s commitment to upholding democratic values during its presidency.
• Public Protests: Outside the Parliament, it is also possible that activists and civil society groups may organize demonstrations to protest Orbán’s leadership, particularly focusing on human rights issues.
• Orbán’s Counterarguments: Orbán is likely to defend his government’s actions by arguing that Hungary’s sovereignty and national values are under attack by EU bureaucrats, which aligns with his long-standing narrative of protecting Hungary’s interests against what he perceives as overreach by Brussels.

Overall, the presentation of the Hungarian Presidency's programme will be highly charged, with debates centered on core EU values, Hungary’s internal policies, and its role in shaping the Union’s future under the presidency.

The Hungarian “National Card” scheme and its consequences for Schengen and the area of freedom, security and justice

Wednesday at 15:00

The debate will focus on the scheme’s implications for the Schengen Area and the broader EU area of freedom, security, and justice of the Hungarian National Cards.

Key Issues:

1. The Hungarian National Card:
   • Hungary’s National Card scheme provides specific privileges to ethnic Hungarians living outside of Hungary, especially in neighboring countries. These cards allow holders to access various public services, including healthcare and education, in Hungary without being permanent residents.
   • The debate will likely focus on whether the scheme conflicts with Schengen rules on border controls, residency rights, and access to social benefits across the EU, raising concerns about potential exploitation of free movement.
2. Impact on Schengen and EU Integration:
   • The Schengen Agreement is built on mutual trust regarding border management and the free movement of people across Member States. Critics argue that Hungary’s scheme could undermine this trust, as it potentially creates a parallel system of privileges for individuals who are not formal residents of the EU, but benefit from some of its core freedoms.
   • This raises concerns over security, particularly around the possibility of circumventing Schengen visa regulations or contributing to identity fraud.
3. Concerns for Freedom, Security, and Justice:
   • The EU’s area of freedom, security, and justice relies on coherent immigration and residency policies. If Hungary's National Card scheme enables individuals to gain rights and services in Hungary (and by extension, in the EU) without adhering to EU-wide immigration standards, this could set a precedent for legal inconsistencies within the Union.
   • Critics worry that this system could foster social divisions and challenge EU principles of equality by creating different classes of individuals with varying degrees of access to EU services.
4. Potential for Political Contestation:
   • MEPs are expected to contest the nationalistic undertones of the scheme, which some see as undermining EU cohesion. Hungary’s longstanding friction with the EU over issues related to rule of law and migrant policies may further intensify this debate, with accusations that the National Card is another step in Hungary’s defiance of EU norms.

The debate will center on whether this scheme disrupts the integrity of the Schengen Area and whether Hungary’s policies are compatible with the EU's collective goals for maintaining a just and secure internal area ​(Hungary Today and Multimedia Centre).

EU response to the Mpox outbreak and the need for continuous action

Wednesday at 16:00

The upcoming debate on the EU response to the Mpox outbreak (formerly known as Monkeypox) will focus on assessing the effectiveness of the EU’s actions during the 2022-2023 outbreak and highlighting the need for continued vigilance and preparedness for future health threats.

Key Issues:

1. Effectiveness of the EU’s Initial Response:
   • The Mpox outbreak posed a significant public health challenge in 2022, particularly in vulnerable populations. The EU’s response involved coordinated efforts through the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA) to facilitate the distribution of vaccines and public health information.
   • The debate will review whether the speed and scale of vaccine distribution, contact tracing, and public awareness campaigns were sufficient to curb the outbreak and protect public health.
2. Need for Continuous Action and Preparedness:
   • The Mpox outbreak, like COVID-19, highlights the need for ongoing preparedness for zoonotic diseases and other health crises. MEPs will likely stress the importance of strengthening the EU’s public health infrastructure and maintaining surveillance systems for emerging infectious diseases.
   • There may be calls for the EU to increase investment in health systems, improve cross-border collaboration, and ensure better access to emergency vaccines and treatments through initiatives like HERA.
3. Addressing Vulnerable Populations:
   • The outbreak disproportionately affected certain groups, particularly LGBTQ+ communities. The EU response will be evaluated in terms of how well it reached and protected these vulnerable populations and what lessons can be learned to avoid stigmatization while ensuring equitable healthcare access for all.
   • There will likely be discussions about the importance of targeted public health campaigns to combat misinformation and ensure high levels of vaccine uptake among at-risk groups.
4. Future Preparedness for Health Crises:
   • The debate will also likely explore how the EU can improve its long-term preparedness for future health crises, not only for Mpox but also for other potential epidemics and pandemics. This may include the creation of resilient health systems, strengthening supply chains for medical supplies, and enhancing global collaboration on health issues.

The EU’s response to Mpox is a critical case study in how Europe handles emerging health threats, and this debate will focus on ensuring that the Union remains proactive in protecting public health while promoting equality and access to healthcare​.

The historic CJEU ruling on the Apple state aid case and its consequences

Thursday at 10:00

The CJEU’s historic ruling on the Apple state aid case on September 10, 2024, marked a significant win for the European Commission. The court found that Apple had received unlawful state aid from Ireland through favorable tax rulings between 1991 and 2007, which allowed the company to pay substantially lower taxes than other businesses operating in the EU. As a result,

Apple is now required to repay over €13 billion in back taxes to Ireland. This ruling reversed the General Court's 2020 decision, which had initially annulled the Commission’s findings.

Key Consequences:

1. Strengthened EU State Aid Rules: The ruling reinforces the European Commission’s ability to challenge selective tax advantages provided by Member States to multinational companies. This sets a precedent for similar cases, particularly those involving corporate tax arrangements across the EU.
2. Impact on International Tax Practices: The decision could influence global tax policies, particularly in relation to how profits are attributed to various subsidiaries. It highlights the importance of adhering to the arm's length principle and accurately documenting corporate decision-making processes to ensure tax compliance.
3. Broader Implications for Multinationals: This ruling may prompt other multinational companies operating in the EU to reassess their tax structures and ensure they do not benefit from similar tax advantages that could be considered illegal state aid.

The debate will likely focus on how this ruling impacts EU state aid enforcement and its broader implications for the bloc’s efforts to ensure tax fairness across Member States​.
Law.com
Multimedia Centre
Loyens Loef

Presentation by the Council of its position on the draft general budget - 2025 financial year: -$9 billion

On Tuesday 16 July 2024, the Council's reached an agreement on its position on the 2025 EU draft budget. The Council formally adopt its position through a written procedure ending on 13 September 2024.

In total, the Council's position for next year's budget amounts to €191.53 billion in commitments and €146.21 billion in payments, not including appropriations foreseen for special instruments outside the MFF.

• Commitments are legal promises to spend money on activities whose implementation extends over several financial years.
• Payments cover expenditure arising from commitments entered into the EU budget during current and preceding financial years.

The Commission presented its proposal to the Council last 19 June and asked €199.7 billion in commitments and €153 billion in payments, reinforced by €72 billion raised under the post-COVID recovery plan, NextGenerationEU.


Council's Position on the 2025 EU Budget

1. Prudent Approach:
   • The Council adopts a cautious strategy for the 2025 budget.
   • Emphasis is placed on demonstrating solidarity with Ukraine and addressing related crises.
2. Realistic Budgeting:
   • The budget should align with actual needs and ensure prudent management.
   • Sufficient margins must be left under the multiannual financial framework (MFF) to handle unforeseen circumstances and address Union challenges.
3. Resource Allocation:
   • Adequate resources must be allocated to implement EU policies and programmes.
   • Commitments already made should be paid in due time.
4. Alignment with MFF Revision:
   • The draft budget for 2025 aligns with the outcomes of the MFF 2021-2027 revision as per the European Council conclusions on 1 February 2024.
   • Proper financing of the revised MFF priorities is stressed, considering the budgetary implementation of all programmes and reprioritization when necessary.

Summary of the Council's Position

• Solidarity with Ukraine - Importance stressed
• Realistic Budgeting - Aligned with actual needs, prudent management, sufficient margins
• Resource Allocation - Ensuring implementation of policies and timely payment of commitments
• MFF Alignment - Draft budget aligns with MFF 2021-2027 revision outcomes
• Financing Priorities - Proper financing considering budgetary implementation and reprioritization