The first plenary session of the European Parliament this year began on January 20 and will run until Thursday, January 24, in Strasbourg, BTA reports.
Among the main topics to be discussed are foreign policy issues and the effect of the second term of US President-elect Donald Trump on transatlantic relations.
Gaza and conflicts in the Middle East
An assessment of the latest developments in the Gaza Strip is scheduled for Monday, including the ceasefire, the release of hostages by the Palestinian group "Hamas" and efforts to prevent a humanitarian crisis. On Tuesday, a discussion will follow on the possible consequences of Trump's second term on international relations, with special attention being paid to topics such as support for Ukraine, relations with Russia and China, and international trade.
Defense, security and trade unions
On Tuesday morning, MEPs will discuss the Digital Services Regulation, which aims to protect democracy and prevent foreign interference in elections. Special attention will be paid to the compliance of major social platforms such as "Facebook" and "Instagram" with this regulation, in view of the possibility of manipulation and algorithmic interventions. The future of the transatlantic partnership in technology and the influence of the new US government on EU-North American cooperation will also be discussed.
Migration and human smuggling
A parliamentary debate is expected on Wednesday on improving cooperation between member states in the fight against smugglers involved in migrant trafficking, as well as on initiatives for legal migration routes in Europe. It is expected that the European Commission and the Council of the EU will present possible measures to reduce human exploitation and promote humanitarian aid.
Polish Presidency and Poland's commitment to strengthening security in Europe
The programme of Poland's six-month presidency of the Council of the EU will be discussed with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on Wednesday. The motto of the Polish presidency - – – – Security, Europe!" reflects Warsaw's efforts to strengthen European security in the context of growing geopolitical tensions, the war in Ukraine and migratory pressure.
Implementation of environmental measures and the fight against plastic pollution
On Thursday, the issue of increasing the effectiveness of international efforts to combat global plastic pollution will also be discussed. The plenary session will call for accelerating measures in the EU and globally to tackle the huge volume of plastic waste and its negative impact on the environment.
During this plenary session, the European Parliament will examine important issues related to both international security and internal political issues within the EU. Geopolitical tensions, migration challenges, as well as the sustainable development of economic and environmental policies in the European Union will be discussed.