Formal opening of the session with a review of the agenda.
Ceasefire in Gaza – the urgent need to release the hostages, end the humanitarian crisis, and pave the way for a two-state solution
Discussion on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the release of hostages, and the broader geopolitical context.
Insight: The EU must balance humanitarian aid with diplomatic pressure on all involved parties, ensuring international law compliance while fostering dialogue for a lasting peace settlement.
Heat record year 2024 – the need for climate action to fight global warming
Analysis of 2024’s extreme weather patterns and their link to climate change.
Insight: Strengthening the EU’s carbon pricing mechanism and investing in green technologies will be key to meeting the climate targets set for 2030 and beyond.
Powering Europe’s future – advancing the fusion industry for energy independence and innovation
Debate on the role of nuclear fusion as a sustainable energy source.
Insight: While fusion energy holds promise, significant technological and financial hurdles remain. The EU’s role in fostering public-private partnerships will be essential.
One-minute speeches (Rule 179)
MEPs address various pressing issues briefly.
Tuesday, 21 January 2025
Debates (09:00 - 11:50) Need to enforce the Digital Services Act (DSA) to protect democracy on social media platforms
Discussion on the impact of foreign interference and biased algorithms on democracy.
Insight: Algorithm transparency and stronger enforcement mechanisms are necessary to counteract misinformation and safeguard electoral integrity.
Votes (12:00 - 13:00)
EU/Republic of Serbia agreement on operational activities of Frontex
Approval of a border security cooperation framework.
Insight: The agreement will enhance regional stability but must ensure compliance with EU human rights standards in border operations.
Debates (13:00 - 22:00)
Geopolitical and economic implications of the new Trump administration
Insight: Potential trade barriers and shifts in NATO commitments may challenge EU-US relations, requiring a more autonomous EU foreign policy.
Need to detect and counter sabotage by the Russian shadow fleet in the Baltic Sea
Insight: Strengthening joint EU-NATO maritime surveillance and cybersecurity measures will be critical in deterring threats to EU infrastructure.
Hungarian government’s illegal espionage of EU institutions
Insight: Addressing rule-of-law breaches while maintaining EU unity will be a key challenge for policymakers.
Continued oppression and fake elections in Belarus
Insight: Increased EU sanctions and support for opposition movements may shape Belarus’s future trajectory.
Situation in Venezuela after the usurpation of the presidency on 10 January 2025
Insight: EU diplomatic pressure and humanitarian aid are crucial in mitigating Venezuela’s democratic crisis.
Wednesday, 22 January 2025
Key Debates (09:00 - 12:20)
Conclusions of the European Council meeting of 19 December 2024
Insight: The Council’s approach to economic recovery, security, and migration policies will set the tone for 2025.
Presentation of the Polish Presidency’s programme
Insight: Poland is expected to focus on energy security, defense, and migration, influencing broader EU policies.
Debates (13:30 - 21:00)
Strengthening EU security and defence
Insight: A coordinated EU defense policy is necessary to counter hybrid threats from hostile state actors.
EU demographic challenges – Implementing the 2023 Demography Toolbox
Insight: Addressing labor shortages and promoting family policies will be critical for long-term sustainability.
Failure of UN plastic treaty negotiations – Need for action
Insight: The EU must leverage trade policies and internal regulations to lead the global fight against plastic pollution.