Sittings

EC-Pacific States Interim Partnership Agreement: accession of Tonga

✦ AI The European Parliament voted on the accession of Tonga to the Interim Partnership Agreement between the EU and Pacific States. Parliament gave its consent, meaning Tonga can join the agreement, which facilitates its economic growth through regional and global trade integration. The decision will be forwarded to the Council, the Commission, and the governments and parliaments of member states and Tonga.

Foreign affairsTrade & customs

Consent · report by Dariusz Joński · consent procedure · voted 12:20 · A-10-2024-0023 · 2024/0048

EC-Pacific States Interim Partnership Agreement: accession of Niue

✦ AI The draft decision concerns Niue's accession to the Interim Partnership Agreement between the European Community and the Pacific States, which sets out trade arrangements. Parliament gave its consent to this accession, meaning it approved the agreement as a whole without amendments. The accession will allow Niue to benefit from full duty-free and quota-free access to the EU market, replacing its current standard GSP arrangement. Parliament's position will be forwarded to the Council, the Commission, and the governments and parliaments of the member states and Niue.

Foreign affairsTrade & customs

Consent · report by Dariusz Joński · consent procedure · voted 12:21 · A-10-2024-0024 · 2024/0010

Conclusion, on behalf of the European Union, of the United Nations Convention on Transparency in Treaty-based Investor-State Arbitration

✦ AI Parliament gave its consent to the EU concluding the United Nations Convention on Transparency in Treaty-based Investor-State Arbitration. The Convention increases public access to documents and hearings in investor-state disputes and lets civil society participate. It applies transparency rules to investment treaties signed before 1 April 2014, covering about 1,200 agreements involving EU member states. Ratification is a first step towards broader reform of investment dispute settlement, including a possible Multilateral Investment Court.

Economy & single marketForeign affairsTrade & customs

Consent · report by Anna Cavazzini · consent procedure · voted 12:21 · A-10-2024-0021 · 2015/0012

EC-Pacific States Interim Partnership Agreement: accession of Tuvalu

✦ AI The European Parliament voted on the accession of Tuvalu to the Interim Partnership Agreement between the EU and the Pacific States. Parliament gave its consent to Tuvalu's accession, which means the agreement can proceed. Tuvalu is expected to graduate from Least Developed Country status in 2024, and this accession helps maintain its duty-free access to the EU market.

Foreign affairsTrade & customs

Consent · report by Dariusz Joński · consent procedure · voted 12:22 · A-10-2024-0025 · 2023/0456

Amendment of Annex VI – Powers and responsibilities of the standing committees

✦ AI Parliament decided to set up a standing committee on Security and Defence and a standing committee on Public Health, replacing the existing subcommittees on those topics. The Security and Defence committee will handle EU security and defence integration, including CSDP, the European Defence Agency, and defence industry matters, while the Public Health committee will cover pharmaceuticals, health crisis preparedness, and related agencies. The committees on Foreign Affairs and on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety will have their responsibilities adjusted accordingly, and the decision takes effect at the next part-session.

EU institutions & ParliamentDefence & securityHealth

Resolutions · motion for a resolution · 17 ballots · voted 12:11 · B-10-2024-0215 · 2024/2115

Setting up a Special Committee on the European Democracy Shield, and defining its responsibilities, numerical strength and term of office

✦ AI Parliament set up a special committee on the European Democracy Shield to counter foreign interference, disinformation and threats to democracy in the EU. The committee will examine gaps in EU law and policy, and propose measures to protect democratic processes and citizens from such attacks. It will work with other parliamentary committees and may make recommendations for future action.

EU institutions & ParliamentDefence & securityJustice, rule of law & rights

Resolutions · motion for a resolution · 7 ballots · voted 12:15 · B-10-2024-0216 · 2024/2999

Setting up a Special Committee on the Housing Crisis in the European Union, and defining its responsibilities, numerical strength and term of office

✦ AI Parliament set up a special committee on the housing crisis in the European Union to propose solutions for decent, sustainable and affordable housing. The committee will map housing needs, analyse policies, assess speculation and short-term rentals, and identify barriers to construction, among other tasks. It will have 33 members and a 12-month term, starting from its constituent meeting, and must present a final report at the end.

EU institutions & ParliamentEconomy & single market

Resolutions · motion for a resolution · 17 ballots · voted 12:17 · B-10-2024-0217 · 2024/3000

Appointment of the Chair of the Anti-Money Laundering Authority (AMLA)

✦ AI Parliament approved the appointment of Ms Bruna Szego as Chair of the Authority for Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AMLA). The decision follows a hearing with the candidate and an evaluation of her credentials against the requirements of the relevant EU regulation. Parliament will forward this decision to the Council, the Commission, AMLA and the governments of the member states.

Justice, rule of law & rightsEU institutions & Parliament

Resolutions · committee report · A-10-2024-0032 · 2024/0802

Forest reproductive material of the ‘tested’ category

✦ AI The law updates EU rules on importing forest reproductive material, adding the 'tested' category to the existing equivalence regime for third countries. Parliament adopted its position, extending the regime to cover 'tested' material and updating labelling and authority names. The rules apply from 1 January 2025, with the Commission to be informed if its proposal is substantially amended.

Agriculture, food & fisheriesClimate & environmentEconomy & single market

New laws · report by Veronika Vrecionová · 1st reading · 3 ballots · voted 12:58 · A-10-2024-0022 · 2024/0214

Discontinuation of the European ODR Platform

✦ AI The European Parliament approved the Council's position on a regulation that repeals the EU law setting up the European Online Dispute Resolution Platform and amends related consumer protection rules. This means the platform will be discontinued, and the regulation will be adopted as agreed, ending the current system for resolving online disputes through that platform. Parliament instructed its President and Secretary-General to sign the act and arrange for its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

Economy & single marketDigital, AI & data

New laws · committee report · 2nd reading · A-10-2024-0028 · 2023/0375

Activities of the European Ombudsman – annual report 2023

✦ AI Parliament adopted its position on the European Ombudsman's 2023 annual report, endorsing the report's findings and recommendations. The resolution supports the Ombudsman's work, including inquiries into maladministration, and calls for improved transparency and accountability in EU institutions. It also urges the Commission to address systemic delays in handling public access to documents, as highlighted in the Ombudsman's special report.

EU institutions & Parliament

Resolutions · report by Alex Agius Saliba · 12 ballots · voted 12:59 · A-10-2024-0016 · 2024/2056

Recommendation on smoke- and aerosol-free environments

✦ AI Parliament rejected a resolution supporting the Council's recommendation to extend smoke- and aerosol-free environments to outdoor areas and new products like e-cigarettes. The rejection means Parliament did not endorse the proposed measures, which aimed to protect people from second-hand smoke and aerosols. The resolution had called on member states to ban smoking in key outdoor spaces and include heated tobacco products and e-cigarettes.

Health

Resolutions · motion for a resolution · 50 ballots · voted 12:28 · B-10-2024-0173 · 2024/2911

Presentation by the President-elect of the Commission of the College of Commissioners and its programme

EU institutions & Parliament

Other · 5 ballots · voted 12:20

Election of the Commission

EU institutions & Parliament

Other · voted 12:24

Objection under Rule 115(2) and (3) · implementing measure

Genetically modified maize MON 89034 × 1507 × NK603

✦ AI The European Parliament objected to the Commission's draft decision renewing the authorisation of genetically modified maize MON 89034 × 1507 × NK603, which is resistant to glyphosate and produces insecticidal proteins. The objection was adopted, blocking the Commission measure, meaning the renewal authorisation cannot go ahead. Parliament cited concerns about the lack of assessment of complementary herbicides, potential effects of Bt toxins, and impacts on non-target organisms.

Agriculture, food & fisheriesHealth

Objections · motion for a resolution · 3 ballots · voted 12:07 · B-10-2024-0148 · 2024/2836

Objection under Rule 115(2) and (3) · implementing measure

Genetically modified maize MON 89034 × 1507 × MON 88017 × 59122 and eight of its sub-combinations

✦ AI The European Parliament adopted a resolution objecting to the Commission's draft decision renewing the authorisation for genetically modified maize MON 89034 × 1507 × MON 88017 × 59122 and eight sub-combinations. The objection blocks the Commission measure, meaning the renewal authorisation does not go ahead. Parliament cites concerns about the assessment of complementary herbicides, Bt toxins, and effects on non-target organisms.

Agriculture, food & fisheriesHealth

Objections · motion for a resolution · 3 ballots · voted 12:09 · B-10-2024-0147 · 2024/2834

Objection under Rule 115(2) and (3) · implementing measure

Genetically modified maize MON 810

✦ AI The European Parliament objected to a Commission decision renewing the authorisation of genetically modified maize MON 810 for food and feed products. The objection was adopted, so the Commission measure is blocked and the authorisation does not go ahead. Parliament considers the decision exceeds the Commission's powers and is inconsistent with EU law, and calls on the Commission to repeal it.

Agriculture, food & fisheriesHealth

Objections · motion for a resolution · voted 12:10 · B-10-2024-0146 · 2024/2840

Objection under Rule 115(2) and (3) · implementing measure

Genetically modified maize DP915635

✦ AI Parliament objected to a Commission decision authorising the sale of products made from genetically modified maize DP915635. The objection was adopted, so the Commission measure is blocked and the maize cannot be marketed in the EU. Parliament cited concerns about the herbicide glufosinate and the toxin IPD079Ea, and called for more assessment.

Agriculture, food & fisheriesHealth

Objections · motion for a resolution · 3 ballots · voted 12:10 · B-10-2024-0149 · 2024/2839

Objection under Rule 115(2) and (3) · implementing measure

Genetically modified maize DP23211

✦ AI Parliament objected to a Commission decision authorising the sale of products made from genetically modified maize DP23211. The objection was adopted, so the Commission measure is blocked and the maize cannot be marketed in the EU. MEPs argued the decision went beyond the Commission's powers and was inconsistent with EU law on genetically modified food and feed.

Agriculture, food & fisheriesHealth

Objections · motion for a resolution · 3 ballots · voted 12:11 · B-10-2024-0150 · 2024/2838

Objection under Rule 115(2) and (3) · implementing measure

Genetically modified maize DP202216

✦ AI The European Parliament objected to a draft Commission decision that would have authorised selling products made from genetically modified maize DP202216, which is resistant to the herbicide glufosinate and has increased yield potential. MEPs adopted the objection, so the Commission measure is blocked and the maize cannot be marketed in the EU. Parliament argued the draft decision exceeded the Commission's powers and was inconsistent with EU law, citing concerns about the herbicide's risks and the lack of a proper assessment.

Agriculture, food & fisheriesHealth

Objections · motion for a resolution · 3 ballots · voted 12:13 · B-10-2024-0152 · 2024/2837

Objection under Rule 115(2) and (3) · implementing measure

Genetically modified maize MON 94804

✦ AI Parliament objected to a Commission draft decision that would have authorised selling products made from genetically modified maize MON 94804, engineered to reduce plant height. The objection was adopted, so the Commission measure is blocked and the maize cannot be authorised under this procedure. Parliament calls on the Commission to withdraw its draft and submit a new one to the committee.

Agriculture, food & fisheriesHealth

Objections · motion for a resolution · voted 12:14 · B-10-2024-0153 · 2024/2841

Partial renewal of a member of the Court of Auditors – Iliana Ivanova

✦ AI Parliament voted on the Council's nomination of Iliana Ivanova as a Member of the Court of Auditors. It adopted a decision delivering a favourable opinion on the nomination, making it Parliament's official position. The decision will be forwarded to the Council and, for information, to the Court of Auditors and other EU institutions.

EU institutions & Parliament

Resolutions · committee report · A-10-2024-0018 · 2024/0804

Electronic value added tax exemption certificate

✦ AI The proposal replaces the paper value added tax exemption certificate with an electronic version for transactions such as diplomatic supplies and NATO forces. Parliament adopted its position approving the Commission proposal, meaning it backs the move to a digital certificate. Parliament asks the Council to notify it if it intends to depart from the approved text and to consult it again on substantial amendments.

Economy & single market

New laws · report by Aurore Lalucq · consultation · voted 11:22 · A-10-2024-0012 · 2024/0152

Faster and Safer Relief of Excess Withholding Taxes

✦ AI Parliament approved the Council's draft directive on faster and safer relief of excess withholding taxes, which introduces a common EU digital tax residence certificate and two fast-track procedures for tax refunds. The directive also sets reporting obligations for financial intermediaries and exempts member states with comprehensive relief-at-source systems and small financial markets from certain requirements. Parliament calls on the Council to notify it if it intends to depart from the approved text and to consult Parliament again if it makes substantial amendments.

Economy & single market

New laws · report by Herbert Dorfmann · consultation · voted 11:23 · A-10-2024-0011 · 2023/0187

Amendment of the EIB’s Statute

✦ AI The European Parliament approved the proposal to amend the Statute of the European Investment Bank (EIB), which aims to remove the statutory lending limit and replace the maximum 250% gearing ratio with a unanimous decision by the Board of Governors. This decision means Parliament supports the change, allowing the EIB's governing bodies full authority over risk and leverage metrics, and it calls on the Council to notify Parliament if it departs from the approved text. Parliament also asks the Council to consult it again if it intends to substantially amend the text, and it will forward its position to the Council, the Commission, the EIB, and national parliaments.

EU institutions & ParliamentEU budget & fundsEconomy & single market

New laws · report by Joachim Streit · consultation · voted 11:27 · A-10-2024-0013 · 2024/0803

Urgent need to revise the Medical Devices Regulation

✦ AI Parliament adopted a resolution calling on the Commission to propose a revision of the Medical Devices Regulation and the In Vitro Diagnostic Medical Devices Regulation. The revision should address implementation challenges, consider stakeholders' views, and focus on timely availability of medical technologies, a more predictable system, and less administrative burden for manufacturers. It should also boost sector competitiveness while ensuring high patient safety. Parliament asks that the resolution be forwarded to the Council, the Commission, and member states' governments and parliaments.

Economy & single marketHealth

Resolutions · motion for a resolution · 17 ballots · voted 13:52 · B-10-2024-0127 · 2024/2849

The case of Bülent Mumay in Türkiye

✦ AI Parliament adopted a resolution condemning the prison sentence of journalist Bülent Mumay in Türkiye and the harassment of independent media and journalists. It calls on Turkish authorities to end repression, release arbitrarily detained people, and ensure judicial independence and press freedom. Parliament also urges the Council to make Türkiye's rule of law and fundamental rights obligations an integral part of EU-Türkiye relations.

Foreign affairsJustice, rule of law & rights

Resolutions · motion for a resolution · 11 ballots · voted 13:22 · B-10-2024-0095 · 2024/2856

The devastating floods in central and eastern Europe, the loss of lives and the EU’s preparedness to act on such disasters exacerbated by climate change

✦ AI Parliament adopted a resolution on the devastating floods in central and eastern Europe and the EU's preparedness for such disasters exacerbated by climate change. The text expresses sympathy with victims and commends emergency services, while calling for non-repayable aid for affected regions. It urges the Commission to provide additional financial assistance and to establish a separate EU instrument for agricultural compensation. Parliament also calls for stronger EU investments in disaster resilience and better coordination of civil protection mechanisms.

Climate & environmentHealthEU budget & funds

Resolutions · motion for a resolution · 29 ballots · voted 13:36 · B-10-2024-0060 · 2024/2817

Objection under Rule 115(2) and (3), and Rule 115(4)(c) · implementing measure

Maximum residue levels for carbendazim and thiophanate-methyl

✦ AI Parliament objected to a Commission regulation that would have kept import tolerance levels for two pesticides, carbendazim and thiophanate-methyl, on certain imported products. The objection was adopted, so the Commission measure is blocked and those maximum residue levels will not be maintained. Parliament argues the substances are harmful and that keeping the levels would put EU farmers at a disadvantage.

Agriculture, food & fisheriesHealthClimate & environment

Objections · motion for a resolution · voted 13:18 · B-10-2024-0020 · 2024/2758

Objection under Rule 115(2) and (3), and Rule 115(4)(c) · implementing measure

Maximum residue levels for cyproconazole

✦ AI The Parliament objected to a Commission regulation that would have kept maximum residue levels for the pesticide cyproconazole in certain imported foods above the default safety limit. The objection was adopted, so the Commission measure is blocked and the proposed residue levels will not take effect. Parliament argues the substance is toxic and its authorisation has expired, so residues should be set at the default value.

Agriculture, food & fisheriesHealthClimate & environment

Objections · motion for a resolution · voted 13:18 · B-10-2024-0021 · 2024/2759

Numerical strength of interparliamentary delegations

✦ AI Parliament adopted a decision setting the number and numerical strength of its interparliamentary delegations, including their regional groupings. The decision specifies the number of Members for each delegation, such as 13 for the EU-North Macedonia Joint Parliamentary Committee and 64 for relations with the United States. It also sets rules for delegation membership, including that the OACPS-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly consists of members from three regional assemblies, and that certain delegations draw members exclusively from specific bodies. The decision replaces the previous one of 17 July 2024 and enters into force on the day of its adoption.

EU institutions & Parliament

Resolutions · motion for a resolution · B-10-2024-0019 · 2024/2814

Numerical strength of standing committees

✦ AI Parliament adopted a decision setting the number of members for each standing committee and subcommittee, ranging from 25 to 90 members per committee. This decision takes effect on the day of adoption and allows committee and subcommittee bureaux to have up to four vice-chairs. Parliament will forward the decision to the Council and the Commission for information.

EU institutions & Parliament

Resolutions · motion for a resolution · B-10-2024-0004 · 2024/2716

Number and numerical strength of interparliamentary delegations

✦ AI Parliament adopted a decision setting the number and size of its interparliamentary delegations, grouped by region and multilateral assemblies. The decision specifies the number of Members for each delegation, such as 64 for the United States and 78 for the OACPS-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly. It also sets rules for membership of certain assemblies and delegation bureaux, and replaces the 2019 decision.

EU institutions & Parliament

Resolutions · motion for a resolution · 3 ballots · B-10-2024-0005 · 2024/2717