Plenary sessions

16-11-2023 - 14:55
20231110BRI10102

Newsletter
20-23 November 2023
Strasbourg plenary session
Parliament to vote on new EU rules for packaging and packaging waste
MEPs will debate on Tuesday and adopt their position for negotiations with EU
governments on Wednesday on new rules to reduce, reuse and recycle packaging in
the EU. 3

New EU rules to make repairs easier and more convenient

Parliament is set to adopt its negotiating position on new rules promoting the right to
repair and more sustainable consumption of consumer goods. 4

Carbon removals: MEPs to vote on EU certification scheme to boost

uptake
In a debate on Monday and vote on Tuesday, MEPs will set out their stance on a new
EU certification framework for technological and natural carbon removals. 21

Future of the EU: MEPs to vote on draft proposals for Treaty reform
On Wednesday, MEPs will put forward draft changes to the EU’s core rules, following
up on the Conference on the Future of Europe and reacting to unprecedented
challenges. 8

EU Budget 2024: focus on research, youth, and external challenges

MEPs are set to approve a deal on next year’s EU budget aimed at addressing global
challenges and supporting young people and research. 20

The regional and global implications of the war in Gaza

On Wednesday morning, MEPs will discuss the humanitarian situation in Gaza, the
need for the release of hostages and for an immediate humanitarian truce leading to a
ceasefire. 9

MEPs to demand more robust implementation of children’s rights

On Monday, MEPs will discuss the wellbeing and the protection of children in Europe,
marking the International Day on the Rights of the Child. 19

Pesticides: MEPs to vote on cutting use and risk of plant protection

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 Plenary sessions

products
Parliament is set to adopt its position ahead of negotiations with EU governments on
measures to reduce the use and risk of plant protection products by 2030. 5

Cyprus confidential revelations: MEPs to quiz the Council and the

Commission
In light of the latest revelations on money laundering and evasion of sanctions against
Russia in Cyprus, MEPs will discuss counter-measures on Wednesday. 18

European elections: MEPs to vote on proposals for the lead candidate

system
The proposals for the 2024 elections include a mechanism to elect the Commission
President, as well as ways to increase turnout and enhance democratic processes. 7

Spyware: MEPs to grill Commission on inadequate response

In a debate on Wednesday, MEPs are set to press the Commission on the lack of
adequate legislative follow-up to Parliament’s inquiry into the use of Pegasus and other
spyware. 17

MEPs to vote on new measures to reduce air pollution from trucks and
buses
Parliament is expected to adopt its position ahead of negotiations with EU
governments on new EU CO2 emission standards for new buses, trucks and trailers. 13

Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women: MEPs debate

developments
MEPs are set to urge progress on talks for EU rules tackling the scourge of gender-
based violence, and insist on the inclusion of a consent-based definition of rape. 16

EU values in Hungary: MEPs to take stock of recent developments

On Tuesday, MEPs will assess the continuing threats to the rule of law, judicial
independence and EU funds in Hungary. 14

Rule of law in Spain: MEPs to assess the governmental agreement

Parliament will look into the scope and impact of proposed legislation to grant amnesty
to hundreds involved in Catalonia’s pro-independence movement over the last decade.
15

Plans to boost Europe's Net-Zero technology production

MEPs will discuss on Monday and vote on Tuesday on draft legislation to bolster
Europe's manufacturing output in technologies needed for decarbonisation. 10

MEPs to discuss the delivery of promised ammunition to Ukraine

On Tuesday afternoon, MEPs will quiz the Commission on where the EU stands on its
commitment to provide one million rounds of artillery ammunition to Ukraine. 12

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 Plenary sessions

COP28: MEPs set to adopt their position ahead of global climate talks
MEPs will debate on Monday and vote on Tuesday on Parliament’s demands for the
2023 UN Climate Change Conference (COP28), taking place in Dubai from 30
November. 24

Kenyan President William Ruto to address the European Parliament

On Tuesday at 11.30, the President of Kenya William Ruto will deliver a speech to
MEPs in the Parliament’s hemicycle in Strasbourg. 23

MEPs set to green light free trade deal with New Zealand
The EU-New Zealand free trade agreement includes for the first time sanctions in case
of the infringement of climate and labour commitments. 22

Other topics on the agenda

Other topics on the agenda 30

Resolutions on human rights and democracy

Parliament will hold urgent debates on the following human rights, democracy and rule
of law topics on Wednesday afternoon, followed by votes on Thursday. 29

MEPs to vote on Finnish and Belgian candidates for the Court of Auditors
Parliament will vote on whether to extend the mandate of Annemie Turtelboom from
Belgium and whether to back the new Finnish nomination Petri Sarvamaa. 28

EU job seeker’s aid worth €2.8 million for 421 dismissed workers in
Belgium
Former employees of the retail chain Makro Cash & Carry, who lost their jobs following
the company’s bankruptcy in January 2023, should receive €2.8 million in EU aid. 27

MEPs want to improve working conditions for artists and cultural workers
Parliament is expected to adopt a legislative report calling for measures to improve the
social and professional conditions for those working in the cultural and creative
sectors. 26

“This is Europe” debate with Bulgarian Prime Minister Nikolay Denkov

Bulgaria’s Prime Minister will address MEPs on Wednesday at 10.30 to outline his
views on the challenges facing Europe and its future. 25

http://www.europarl.europa.eu//news/en/agenda/briefing/2023-11-20

Newsletter - 20-23 November 2023 - Strasbourg plenary

session

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 Plenary sessions

Further information
Draft agenda
Follow the plenary live
Press conferences and other events
EP Multimedia Centre
EP Newshub

Contacts

Estefanía NARRILLOS
Press Officer
(+32) 2 28 31324 (BXL)
(+33) 3 881 73661 (STR)
(+32) 498 98 39 85
[email protected]

Andreas KLEINER
Press Officer / Editorial Coordinator
(+32) 2 28 32266 (BXL)
(+33) 3 881 72336 (STR)
(+32) 498 98 33 22
[email protected]

Natalie Kate KONTOULIS

Press Officer
(+32) 2 28 43562 (BXL)
(+32) 470 88 37 82
[email protected]
[email protected]

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 Plenary sessions

Parliament to vote on new EU rules for packaging

and packaging waste
MEPs will debate on Tuesday and adopt their position for
negotiations with EU governments on Wednesday on new
rules to reduce, reuse and recycle packaging in the EU.
The report by the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety includes
proposals to make packaging easier to reuse and recycle, to reduce unnecessary packaging
and waste, and to encourage the use of recycled content. MEPs want to ban the sale of very
light weight plastic carrier bags, unless required for hygiene reasons, and the use of
intentionally added so called “forever chemicals” (per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances or
PFASs) and Bisphenol A in food contact packaging. They also want consumers to be able to
bring their own container for take-away food and drinks.

Background

In 2018, packaging generated a turnover of EUR 355 billion in the EU. It is an ever-increasing
source of waste, the EU total having increased from 66 million tonnes in 2009 to 84 million
tonnes in 2021. In 2021, each European generated 188.7 kg of packaging waste a year, a figure
that is expected to increase to 209 kg in 2030 without additional measures.

Procedure Code: 2023/0042(COD)

Procedure: ordinary legislative procedure

Debate: Tuesday, 21 November

Vote: Wednesday, 22 November

Press conference: Wednesday, 22 November, 13.30 CET

Further information
Procedure file
Legislative train
EP Research: Revision of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (March 2023)
EP Research – At a Glance: Revising rules on packaging and packaging waste (November
2023)
Free photos, videos and audio material

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 Plenary sessions

New EU rules to make repairs easier and more

convenient
Parliament is set to adopt its negotiating position on new
rules promoting the right to repair and more sustainable
consumption of consumer goods.
MEPs will debate on Monday and vote on Tuesday on draft legislation to make it easier for
consumers to repair defective goods even after the expiration of the guarantee. The proposal
complements other ongoing EU initiatives that pursue the European Green Deal objective of
sustainable consumption and the circular economy (Ecodesignand Empowering consumers for
the green transition).

Choosing repair over replacement

Within the legal guarantee period, sellers will have to prioritise repair when it is cheaper or equal
to the cost of replacement. Once the legal guarantee has lapsed, consumers will still have a
right to request the repair of products such as household washing machines, vacuum cleaners,
smartphones and bicycles. To make repairs more attractive and accessible, MEPs propose, the
loaning of replacement devices during the repair period, promoting refurbished goods as an
alternative, increasing the availability of spare parts for independent repairers, and offering
financial incentives for consumers who opt for repair.

Procedure code: 2023/0083(COD)

Procedure type: Ordinary legislative procedure

Debate: Monday, 20 November

Vote: Tuesday 21 November

Press conference: Tuesday, 21 November 14.30 CET

Further information
Committee press release (25.10.2023)
EP Study: Right to repair, new consumer right (September 2023)
Q&A: Right to repair (European Commission, March 2023)

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 Plenary sessions

Pesticides: MEPs to vote on cutting use and risk of

plant protection products
Parliament is set to adopt its position ahead of
negotiations with EU governments on measures to reduce
the use and risk of plant protection products by 2030.
MEPs will debate on Tuesday and vote on Wednesday on the report by the Environment, Public
Health and Food Safety Committee to reduce the use of chemical plant protection products and
make them safer by at least 50%; they would also reduce the use of so-called “more hazardous
products” by 65%, compared to the 2013-2017 average. The Commission proposed a 50%
target for both based on the 2015-2017 average. The report also calls for a ban on all chemical
pesticides in sensitive areas such as Natura 2000 areas including urban green spaces, and a
new EU 2030 target to increase the sales of low-risk pesticides.

On Thursday, Parliament will also vote on a resolution from the Environment Committee on the
revised EU Pollinators Initiative to reverse pollinator decline that is largely due to the use of
chemical pesticides.

Background

Parliament has, on numerous occasions, called for the EU to transition to using products that
protect plants in a more sustainable way. MEPs have called on the Commission to propose an
ambitious and binding EU target to reduce the use of chemical pesticides. The proposal is part
of a package of measures to reduce the environmental footprint of the EU’s food system and
mitigate the economic losses due to climate change and biodiversity loss.

Procedure code: 2022/0196(COD) & COM(2023)0035

Debate: Tuesday 21 November 2023 & Wednesday 22 November

Vote: Wednesday 22 November 2023 & Thursday 23 November

Procedure: Ordinary legislative procedure & Oral question with resolution

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 Plenary sessions

Further information
Procedure file (pesticides)
Procedure file (Revision of the EU Pollinators Initiative - A new deal for pollinators)
EP Research: Sustainable use of plant protection products (29.11.2022)
EP press: “Pesticides: Public hearing with pesticide firms on toxicity studies” (18.07.2023)
EP press: “New EU farm to fork strategy to make our food healthier and more sustainable”
(20.10.2021)
EP Research: Revision of Directive 2009/128/EC on the sustainable use of pesticides
(02.09.2022)
Infoclip: Sustainable use of pesticides

EP Multimedia Centre: free photos, videos and audio material

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 Plenary sessions

European elections: MEPs to vote on proposals for

the lead candidate system
The proposals for the 2024 elections include a mechanism
to elect the Commission President, as well as ways to
increase turnout and enhance democratic processes.
The draft text adopted by the Committee on Constitutional Affairs calls for a binding agreement
between Parliament and the European Council on the so-called lead candidate process for the
election of the Commission President. MEPs say that lead candidates, jointly with the presidents
of the European political parties and of their respective parliamentary groups, should engage in
negotiations immediately after the elections to put forward a common candidate, before the
European Council can make a proposal.

Other proposals include measures to increase turnout and mobilise especially people living in a
member state that is not their own, and a call for progress on election-related outstanding
legislation (e.g. on the new European electoral law and rules for European political parties and
foundations).

A press conference with the co-rapporteurs Sven Simon (EPP, DE) and Domènec Ruiz Devesa
(S&D, ES) will take place on Wednesday at 14.30.

Procedure code: 2023/2016(INI)

Vote: Thursday 23 November

Procedure: non-legislative resolution

Press conference: Wednesday 22 November 14.30

Further information
Press release after the committee vote (25.10.2023)
Draft report on the European Elections 2024
Procedure file
Profile of the co-rapporteur Sven Simon (EPP, DE)
Profile of the co -rapporteur Domènec Ruiz Devesa (S&D, ES)
Committee on Constitutional Affairs
EP Research Service Study - “Spitzenkandidaten or the lead candidate process: Ways to
Europeanise elections to the European Parliament” (09.06.2023)
Free photos, video and audio material (European elections 2024)

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 Plenary sessions

Future of the EU: MEPs to vote on draft proposals

for Treaty reform
On Wednesday, MEPs will put forward draft changes to the
EU’s core rules, following up on the Conference on the
Future of Europe and reacting to unprecedented
challenges.
The text, prepared in the Committee on Constitutional Affairs by five co-rapporteurs
representing a broad majority, includes a more bicameral system, as well as granting
Parliament the full right to initiate legislation and the right to co-legislate on the EU’s long-term
budget. It also calls for an increase in the number of decisions taken by qualified majority in the
Council.

Other proposals touch upon the election of the Commission President, citizens’ participation
including EU-wide referendums, and more EU powers in areas such as environment and
biodiversity, security and defense, civil protection, public health, energy, and cross-border-
infrastructure.

Procedure code: 2022/2051(INL)

Debate: Tuesday, 21 November

Vote: Wednesday 22 November

Procedure: legislative initiative report - EU Treaty revision

Further information
Procedure file
Profile of the co-rapporteur: Guy Verhofstadt (Renew, BE)
Profile of the co-rapporteur: Sven Simon (EPP, DE)
Profile of the co-rapporteur: Gabriele Bischoff (S&D, DE)
Profile of the co-rapporteur: Daniel Freund (Greens/EFA, DE)
Profile of the co-rapporteur: Helmut Scholz (The Left, DE)
Conference on the Future of Europe: follow-up
Committee on Constitutional Affairs
Free photos, video and audio material

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 Plenary sessions

The regional and global implications of the war in

Gaza
On Wednesday morning, MEPs will discuss the
humanitarian situation in Gaza, the need for the release of
hostages and for an immediate humanitarian truce leading
to a ceasefire.
Following Hamas’ deadly attack against Israel on 7 October 2023, which claimed the lives of
around 1 200 people and resulted in more than 200 people being taken hostage, Israel declared
war against the terrorist group. It began striking the Gaza Strip from the air, later sending
ground forces into the sealed-off coastal enclave. According to the Hamas-run health ministry,
more than 11 000 Palestinians have so far been killed.

During the plenary debate, MEPs will take stock of the latest developments, and discuss the
regional and global implications of the renewed hostilities as well as the prospects for peace
and security in the Middle East.

Debate: Wednesday 22 November

Procedure: Council and Commission statements, without resolution

Further information
Press release: “MEPs condemn Hamas attack on Israel and call for a humanitarian pause”
(19.10.2023)
EP Multimedia Centre: free photos, video and audio material

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 Plenary sessions

Plans to boost Europe's Net-Zero technology

production
MEPs will discuss on Monday and vote on Tuesday on
draft legislation to bolster Europe's manufacturing output
in technologies needed for decarbonisation.
The "Net-Zero industry act" sets a target for Europe to produce 40% of net-zero technologies
based on National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs) and to capture 25% of the global market
value for these technologies. MEPs want to broaden the scope of the rules to encompass the
entire supply chain, including components, materials, and machinery. They also propose it
covers a wider list of technologies, including nuclear fission and fusion technologies, sustainable
aviation fuels (SAFs), and specific industrial technologies.

The legislation would earmark funding from national Emission Trading System (ETS) revenue
and for the most strategic projects through the Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform
(STEP).

Lead MEP Christian Ehler (EPP, DE) will give a press conference following the vote, on
Tuesday at 14.00.

Background

Europe largely imports the clean energy technologies it needs to reach its climate targets, while
many third countries have stepped up their efforts to expand their clean energy manufacturing
capacity. The aim of the draft regulation –to be negotiated with member states- is ensuring that,
by 2030, the manufacturing capacity in the EU for these strategic technologies reaches at least
40% of its annual deployment needs.

Procedure Code: 2023/0081(COD)

Debate: Monday 20 November

Vote: Tuesday 21 November

Procedure: Ordinary legislative procedure, first reading

Press conference: Tuesday, 21 November, 14.00

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 Plenary sessions

Further information
Report on establishing a framework of measures for strengthening Europe’s net-zero
technology products manufacturing ecosystem (Net Zero Industry Act)
Press release on committee vote (25.10.2023)
Procedure file
EP research briefing
Legislative train: Net-Zero Industry Act

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 Plenary sessions

MEPs to discuss the delivery of promised

ammunition to Ukraine
On Tuesday afternoon, MEPs will quiz the Commission on
where the EU stands on its commitment to provide one
million rounds of artillery ammunition to Ukraine.
Earlier this year, European Union ministers agreed on a three-track approach to provide Ukraine
with one million artillery shells by March 2024, by raiding member states’ own stockpiles and
through joint procurement. Kyiv’s forces have often highlighted the problem of ammunition
shortages. Recently, however, senior European officials have indicated that the EU is struggling
to meet its target. During Tuesday’s question time, MEPs are expected to question the
Commission on the reasons why and what the EU can do to better support Ukraine.

Debate: Tuesday 21 November

Procedure: Council and Commission statements

Further information
EP Multimedia Centre: free photos, video and audio material

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 Plenary sessions

MEPs to vote on new measures to reduce air

pollution from trucks and buses
Parliament is expected to adopt its position ahead of
negotiations with EU governments on new EU CO2
emission standards for new buses, trucks and trailers.
MEPs will debate and vote on Tuesday on strengthening requirements for heavy-duty vehicles
(HDVs), such as buses, trucks and trailers, to reduce their CO2 emissions. They propose that
the targets should be set at 45% for the period 2030-2034, 70% for 2035-2039 (compared to
65% proposed by the Commission) and 90% as of 2040. They also agree that newly registered
urban buses should be zero-emission vehicles from 2030.

Background

On 14 February 2023, the Commission tabled a legislative proposal to set CO2 standards for
heavy-duty vehicles from 2030 onwards to help reach the EU’s objective to be climate neutral
by 2050 and lower the demand for imported fossil fuels. Heavy-duty vehicles, such as trucks,
city buses and long-distance buses, are responsible for more than 25% of greenhouse gas
(GHG) emissions from road transport in the EU and account for over 6% of total EU GHG
emissions.

Procedure Code: 2023/0042(COD)

Procedure: ordinary legislative procedure

Debate: Tuesday, 21 November

Vote: Tuesday, 21 November

Further information
Procedure file
Legislative train
EP Research: CO₂ emission performance standards and reporting obligations for new heavy-
duty vehicles (March 2023)
EP Research – At a Glance: Stricter CO₂ standards for heavy-duty vehicles (November 2023)
Free photos, videos and audio material

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 Plenary sessions

EU values in Hungary: MEPs to take stock of recent

developments
On Tuesday, MEPs will assess the continuing threats to the
rule of law, judicial independence and EU funds in
Hungary.
In a debate with representatives of the Spanish Presidency of the Council and the Commission,
MEPs will review what has happened since Parliament’s resolution of June 2023 that
denounced deliberate and systematic efforts to undermine EU values in the country.

The issue of “frozen” EU funds and the requirements that Hungary must fulfil to receive them
will be raised, as will Hungary’s upcoming Presidency of the Council of the EU. MEPs are also
expected to ask about the 15 November discussion over the Article 7 procedure at the General
Affairs Council.

Debate: Wednesday 22 November

Procedure: Council and Commission statements, no resolution

Further information
MEPs: Hungary can no longer be considered a full democracy (15.09.2022)
Breaches of EU values: how the EU can act (infographic)
Free photos, video and audio material (Rule of law in Hungary)

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 Plenary sessions

Rule of law in Spain: MEPs to assess the

governmental agreement
Parliament will look into the scope and impact of proposed
legislation to grant amnesty to hundreds involved in
Catalonia’s pro-independence movement over the last
decade.
The governmental agreement in Spain following the 23 July national elections –including the
amnesty law- will be the focus of a debate with representatives of the Spanish Presidency of the
Council and the Commission on Wednesday afternoon. Justice Commissioner Didier Reynders,
who last week wrote to the Spanish Government asking for details about the planned legislation,
confirmed on Wednesday that the Commission is currently analysing the draft bill.

Procedure: Council and Commission statements, without resolution

Debate: Wednesday, 22 November

Further information
Free photos, videos and audio material

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 Plenary sessions

Day for the Elimination of Violence Against

Women: MEPs debate developments
MEPs are set to urge progress on talks for EU rules
tackling the scourge of gender-based violence, and insist
on the inclusion of a consent-based definition of rape.
On Thursday, to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (25
November), plenary will assess the situation across the EU with Commission representatives.
Parliament has repeatedly raised the issue of gender-based violence and is currently in
negotiations with member states on draft EU legislation to tackle violence against women and
domestic violence.

According to data collected by the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights in 2014, one in ten
women in the EU has experienced some form of sexual violence since the age of 15, and one in
20 women has been raped.

Debate: Thursday, 23 November

Procedure: Commission statement, no resolution

Further information
Procedure file
Combating violence against women: MEPs back EU accession to Istanbul Convention
(10.05.2023)
Briefing by the EP Think Tank - “Combating violence against women and domestic violence”
Free photos, video and audio material (violence against women)

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 Plenary sessions

Spyware: MEPs to grill Commission on inadequate

response
In a debate on Wednesday, MEPs are set to press the
Commission on the lack of adequate legislative follow-up
to Parliament’s inquiry into the use of Pegasus and other
spyware.
In the conclusions of the Parliament’s year-long inquiry into the use of Pegasus and equivalent
surveillance spyware, MEPs asked for a number of legislative changes to respond to abusive
spyware use in Europe. They recently argued that the Commission’s response has been
insufficient and vague. In a plenary debate with the Commission, MEPs are expected to
demand appropriate measures in response to reports of spyware use stifling civil society,
democratic opposition, and journalists in EU member states.

Debate: Wednesday 22 November

Vote: Thursday 23 November

Procedure: Commission statement, with resolution

Further information
EP Research: Investigation of the use of Pegasus and equivalent surveillance spyware
(7.6.2023)
Free photos, videos and audio material: the PEGA committee

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 Plenary sessions

Cyprus confidential revelations: MEPs to quiz the

Council and the Commission
In light of the latest revelations on money laundering and
evasion of sanctions against Russia in Cyprus, MEPs will
discuss counter-measures on Wednesday.
The latest investigation carried out by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists
(ICIJ) revealed that Cypriot investment firms and banks have been allegedly involved in hiding
the wealth of sanctioned Russian oligarchs and billionaires.

MEPs are set to discuss with the Council and the Commission how to urgently and effectively
plug all loopholes in the financial system and accelerate the ongoing negotiations with member
states on tighter anti-money laundering rules.

Debate: Wednesday 22 November

Procedure: Council and Commission statements without resolution

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 Plenary sessions

MEPs to demand more robust implementation of

children’s rights
On Monday, MEPs will discuss the wellbeing and the
protection of children in Europe, marking the International
Day on the Rights of the Child.
Parliament will also debate how to strengthen the Child Guarantee, two years after its adoption
in 2021 on Monday with a resolution to be put to a vote on Tuesday. In the resolution, MEPs
urge all member states to adopt their Child Guarantee national action plans and to effectively
implement them.

In the same joint debate on Monday, MEPs will discuss a report to reduce inequalities and
increase social inclusion in times of crisis for children and their families. In the text, Parliament
calls for better integrated social, educational and employment services to help break the vicious
circle of poverty and to protect children and their families at risk of poverty, in particular in times
of crisis. The report will be put to a vote on Tuesday.

Background

On 20 November 1959, the UN General Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the
Child, and, in 1989, the Convention on the Rights of the Child – the first international treaty to
recognise children as human beings with innate rights. The four core principles of the
Convention are non-discrimination, the best interests of the child, respect for the views of the
child, and the right to life, survival and development.

Procedure codes: 2023/2811(RSP) and 2023/2066 (INI)

Procedure: resolution on topical subjects (Child Guarantee) and own-initiative procedure

(Reducing inequalities and promoting social inclusion)

Debate: Monday 20 November

Vote: Tuesday, 21 November (Child Guarantee)

Vote: Tuesday, 21 November (Reducing inequalities and promoting social inclusion)

Further information
EP briefing - Children’s rights in the EU in the light of the UN Convention on the Rights of the
Child (November 2022)
Press release following committee vote: “Protect children and their families in times of crisis”
(07-11-2023)

EN Press Service, Directorate General for Communication

European Parliament - Spokesperson: Jaume Duch Guillot
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 Plenary sessions

EU Budget 2024: focus on research, youth, and

external challenges
MEPs are set to approve a deal on next year’s EU budget
aimed at addressing global challenges and supporting
young people and research.
Parliament obtained better support, totalling almost €670 million in funding, for its priorities on
top of what the Commission had initially proposed in its draft budget for 2024. Negotiations
between Parliament, Council and the Commission ended with an agreement on Saturday 11
November.

The preliminary figures for 2024 are €189.4 billion in commitment appropriations and €142.6
billion in payment appropriations.

The increases MEPs achieved will include €250 million for Humanitarian Aid, €150 million for
the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument- Global Europe
programme, €85 million for Horizon Europe, €30 million for transport infrastructure (Connecting
Europe Facility), €60 million to Erasmus+, €20 million to LIFE, €20 million for young farmers,
€10 million for the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, and €10 million for Military Mobility.

Read all the details in the press release.

Following the vote on Wednesday, the President of the European Parliament will sign the
budget into law.

Procedure Code: 2023/0264(BUD)

Procedure: Budgetary

Debate: Tuesday 21 November

Vote: Wednesday 22 November

Further information
Procedure file

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 Plenary sessions

Carbon removals: MEPs to vote on EU certification

scheme to boost uptake
In a debate on Monday and vote on Tuesday, MEPs will set
out their stance on a new EU certification framework for
technological and natural carbon removals.
The report by the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety Committee underlines that the
scheme is required to improve the EU’s capacity to quantify, monitor and verify carbon removals
and to counter greenwashing. It also emphasises the need to distinguish between carbon
removals, carbon farming and carbon storage in products.

Background

In April 2023, Parliament adopted a resolution on Sustainable carbon cycles saying that while
the EU must always prioritise swift and predictable reductions of greenhouse gas emissions,
carbon removals must play a growing role in achieving EU climate neutrality by 2050 to balance
out emissions that cannot be eliminated.

Procedure code: 2022/0394(COD)

Debate: Monday 20 November 2023

Vote: Tuesday 21 November 2023

Procedure: Ordinary legislative procedure

Further information
Commission’s proposal for the establishment of a Union certification framework for carbon
removals (CFCR)
Procedure file
EP press: “Carbon removals: MEPs want EU certification scheme to boost uptake“ (24.10.2023)
EP Multimedia Centre: free photos, videos and audio material

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 Plenary sessions

MEPs set to green light free trade deal with New

Zealand
The EU-New Zealand free trade agreement includes for the
first time sanctions in case of the infringement of climate
and labour commitments.
After a plenary debate on Tuesday, MEPs are expected to give their consent on Wednesday to
a deal that will, on its entry into force, remove all New Zealand tariffs on EU exports and lift
98.5% of EU tariffs on New Zealand trade after seven years. All EU geographical indications
(GIs) for wine and spirits will be protected, such as Polish Vodka, Rioja or Prosecco, as well as
a list of 163 famous EU foodstuff GIs – including Comté cheese, Istarski pršut ham, Lübecker
Marzipan, and Elia Kalamatas olives. Tariff rate quotas in the deal, for instance on beef and
several dairy products, will defend some sensitive EU agricultural sectors.

The agreement with New Zealand is the EU's first to include enforceable commitments to the
Paris Agreement and to core International Labour Organization (ILO) standards. New Zealand is
an important partner for the EU in the Pacific region, with bilateral trade in goods reaching €9.1
billion in 2022.

Lead MEP Daniel Caspary will hold a press conference on Wednesday at 11.30.

Debate: Tuesday 21 November

Vote: Wednesday 22 November

Press conference: Wednesday 11.30

Procedure: Consent

Further information
Press release on the committee vote
Procedure file on consent
Procedure file on the resolution
Legislative train
Text of the agreement (European Commission)
EP Think Tank: EU-New Zealand free trade agreement: Climate and labour commitments, with
sanctions

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 Plenary sessions

Kenyan President William Ruto to address the

European Parliament
On Tuesday at 11.30, the President of Kenya William Ruto
will deliver a speech to MEPs in the Parliament’s hemicycle
in Strasbourg.
Mr Ruto has served as his country’s president since September 2022. He previously held other
high-level political posts, including that of Deputy President and several ministerial positions.

More information is available on the official website of the President of Kenya.

Speech: Tuesday 21 November

Procedure: Formal sitting

Further information
EP Multimedia Centre: free photos, video and audio material

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 Plenary sessions

COP28: MEPs set to adopt their position ahead of

global climate talks
MEPs will debate on Monday and vote on Tuesday on
Parliament’s demands for the 2023 UN Climate Change
Conference (COP28), taking place in Dubai from 30
November.
The resolution, prepared by the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety,
outlines Parliament’s calls for action in view of the COP28, which will take stock of the progress
made on implementing the 2015 Paris Agreement.

MEPs want global financial contributions to be continued and increased, better efforts to protect,
conserve and restore biodiversity and global targets to triple renewable energy and double
energy efficiency by 2030. They also call for an end to all direct and indirect fossil fuel subsidies
“as soon as possible and by 2025 at the latest”.

Background

COP28 takes place from 30 November to 12 December 2023 in Dubai (United Arab Emirates).
A Parliament delegation will attend the gathering between 8 and 12 December.

The Paris Agreement entered into force on 4 November 2016. The Global Stocktake takes
place every five years, with the first-ever stocktake scheduled to conclude at COP28 aiming to
provide an overall picture of its implementation progress.

Procedure Code: 2023/2636(RSP)

Procedure: resolution on topical subjects

Debate: Monday, 20 November

Vote: Tuesday, 21 November

Further information
Procedure file
COP28 (UNFCCC website)
EP Study: International Climate Negotiations - issues at stake in view of the COP28 UN Climate
Change Conference in Dubai and beyond (November 2023)
Free photos, videos and audio material (COP 28)

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 Plenary sessions

“This is Europe” debate with Bulgarian Prime

Minister Nikolay Denkov
Bulgaria’s Prime Minister will address MEPs on Wednesday
at 10.30 to outline his views on the challenges facing
Europe and its future.
EP President Metsola and Prime Minister Denkov will have a bilateral meeting before his
speech in plenary. A short press point -still to be confirmed- is scheduled for 10.20.

This will be the twelfth “This is Europe” plenary debate, and the fifth in 2023, following Cyprus’
President Christodoulides (13 June), Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz (9 May), Luxembourg’s
Prime Minister Xavier Bettel (19 April) and Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda (14 March).
The EU leaders who participated in this debate series in 2022 were Estonian Prime Minister
Kaja Kallas, Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi, Ireland’s Taoiseach Micheál Martin, Croatian
Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Finnish Prime
Minister Sanna Marin, and Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob.

Nikolay Denkov was born in 1962. He is an academic, professor and doctor of science in
physical chemistry. He was Minister of Education and Science in 2017 and from 2021-2022. On
6 June 2023, he became the 58th Prime Minister of Bulgaria.

Debate: Wednesday, 22 November

Press point: Wednesday 22 November at 10.20 tbc

Further information
Free multimedia material on “This is Europe” debates
Prime Minister of Bulgaria

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 Plenary sessions

MEPs want to improve working conditions for

artists and cultural workers
Parliament is expected to adopt a legislative report calling
for measures to improve the social and professional
conditions for those working in the cultural and creative
sectors.
In a report on which they will vote on Tuesday, MEPs are calling for better access for
professionals working in the cultural and creative sectors (CCS) to social security, cross-border
mobility, fair remuneration, collective bargaining, and prevention of workplace harassment and
discrimination. They want an EU directive to ensure decent working conditions, and a European
platform to exchange best practices and to create mutual understanding about the status of
artists. MEPs also demand that recipients of EU funding for creativity and culture programmes
would in the future comply with certain social and labour standards.

Background

The cultural sector was hit particularly hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, which highlighted the
need for ensuring better working conditions for professionals in the cultural and creative sectors.
The European Parliament has been calling for the creation of a common definition and minimum
social standards for artists and cultural workers since 2021. Under the Lisbon Treaty, the
European Parliament has a right of legislative initiative to ask the Commission to submit a
proposal.

Procedure code: 2023/2051(INL)

Procedure: Legislative initiative procedure

Vote: Tuesday 21 November

Further information
EP: Protecting artists' status and revenues in the EU
EP Study: The Situation of Artists and Cultural Workers and the postCOVID-19 Cultural
Recovery in the European Union
EP Study: Buyout contracts imposed by platforms in the cultural and creative sector
Debate in Legal Affairs Committee on buyout contracts imposed by platforms in the cultural and
creative sector (07-11-2023)

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 Plenary sessions

EU job seeker’s aid worth €2.8 million for 421

dismissed workers in Belgium
Former employees of the retail chain Makro Cash & Carry,
who lost their jobs following the company’s bankruptcy in
January 2023, should receive €2.8 million in EU aid.
MEPs are expected to approve Belgium’s request for support from the European Globalisation
Adjustment Fund for Displaced Workers(EGF).The support package includes advisory services,
job search assistance, and skills training.

MEPs acknowledged that “the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian war of aggression against
Ukraine have reduced economic competitiveness and have a negative impact on economic
growth in Belgium”. The total estimated cost of the measures is €3.2 million, with 85% (€2.8
million) covered by the EGF and the remaining 15% (€499 000) financed by the Walloon region.

More information is available in the recent press release and in the draft report by rapporteur
Petri Sarvamaa (EPP, FI).

Procedure Code: 2023/0352(BUD)

Procedure: Budgetary

Vote: Wednesday 22 November

Further information
Procedure file

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 Plenary sessions

MEPs to vote on Finnish and Belgian candidates for

the Court of Auditors
Parliament will vote on whether to extend the mandate of
Annemie Turtelboom from Belgium and whether to back
the new Finnish nomination Petri Sarvamaa.
Petri Sarvamaa, a new nomination by Finland, is currently a Member of the European
Parliament and a member of the Budgetary Control Committee since 2012. Recently, he was
one of the lead MEPs steering the negotiations on the Rule of law budget conditionality
regulation on behalf of Parliament. Read his full CV here.

Both candidacies were endorsed by the Budgetary Control Committee following hearings on 7
November.

The final decision will be taken by EU member states.

Background

The EU Treaty allows each member state to propose its candidate for the European Court of
Auditors. Member states, after consulting Parliament, adopt the chosen nominees for a six-year
term.

Procedure Code: 2023/0812(NLE), 2023/0811(NLE))

Vote: Wednesday 22 November

Procedure: Consultation

Further information
Draft report on the nomination of Petri Sarvamaa as a Member of the Court of Auditors
Draft report on the nomination of Annemie Turtelboom as a Member of the Court of Auditors

European Parliament Research Service briefing: more on the nominations for Members of the
European Court of Auditors: Belgium and Finland

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 Plenary sessions

Resolutions on human rights and democracy

Parliament will hold urgent debates on the following human
rights, democracy and rule of law topics on Wednesday
afternoon, followed by votes on Thursday.
• Latest attacks against women, women's rights defenders in Iran, and arbitrary
detention of EU nationals

• The unlawful detention of President Mohamed Bazoum in Niger

• The killing of Tamaz Ginturi, a Georgian citizen, by Russia’s occupying forces in

Georgia

Debate: Wednesday 22 November

Vote: Thursday 23 November

Procedure: non-legislative resolutions

Further information
EP Multimedia Centre: free photos, video and audio material

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 Plenary sessions

Other topics on the agenda

Other topics on the agenda
- High common level of cybersecurity at the institutions, bodies, Virkkunen, vote Tuesday

- Destruction of judicial independence and the persecution of democrats in Hong Kong (without
resolution) - VP/HR statement - Tuesday

- 30 years of Copenhagen criteria - towards next enlargements (with resolution to be voted in

December) - Council and Commissions statements - Wednesday

- Reducing regulatory burden to unleash entrepreneurship and competitiveness, topical debate,

Wednesday

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