The European Parliament’s plenary session in Strasbourg, scheduled for 20-23 January 2025, encompasses a range of significant debates and discussions. Here are the highlights:
Monday, 20 January:
- Ceasefire in Gaza: MEPs will deliberate on the recent ceasefire, emphasising the urgent need to release hostages, address the humanitarian crisis, and advance towards a two-state solution.
- Climate Action: In light of 2024 being a record-heat year, the Commission will present statements highlighting the necessity for robust climate action to combat global warming.
- Advancing Fusion Energy: Discussions will focus on promoting the nuclear fusion sector as a means to achieve energy independence and foster innovation.
Tuesday, 21 January:
- Digital Services Act (DSA): A debate will be held on enforcing the DSA to protect democracy online, particularly concerning the spread of illegal content and disinformation.
- Polish EU Council Presidency: Prime Minister Donald Tusk will present the programme of activities for Poland’s six-month Council Presidency, focusing on security and defense in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
- Transatlantic Relations: MEPs will discuss the geopolitical and economic implications for EU-US relations under the new Trump administration.
- Belarus and Georgia: Debates will address the continued oppression and forthcoming elections in Belarus, as well as the political turmoil in Georgia surrounding the investiture of a pro-Russian President.
Wednesday, 22 January:
- European Council Conclusions: An assessment of the outcomes from the 19 December EU summit, which reviewed events in Ukraine and the Middle East, will be conducted with European Council President António Costa and Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
- EU Demographic Challenges: The Commission will present statements on addressing demographic issues, followed by a debate on the EU’s demographic challenges and the implementation of the 2023 Demography Toolbox.
- Criminal Networks and Migration: A discussion on the facilitation of irregular migration by criminal networks will take place, following a Commission update.
Thursday, 23 January:
- Combating Desertification: The session will include a statement from the Commission providing an update on the conclusions reached at COP16 held in Riyadh on combating desertification.
This plenary session addresses critical issues ranging from climate action and digital regulation to geopolitical relations and humanitarian crises, reflecting the Parliament’s commitment to tackling pressing challenges facing the European Union.
