Farmers’ demands, Russian interference attempts on EP plenary agenda

Farmers’ demands, fighting the rise in antisemitism and anti-Muslim hatred, Russian interference attempts in EU affairs, and support for Ukraine are some of the issues on the agenda of the European Parliament’s Plenary session this week in Strasbourg. MEPs are to also vote on a resolution taking stock of threats to the rule of law and media freedom in Greece.

According to the agenda, MEPs on the morning of 6 February, will discuss the results of the latest EU summits, particularly the Special European Council of 1 February, with Presidents Michel and von der Leyen.

Also on 6 February, MEPs will vote on draft EU rules to end the impunity of dangerous non-resident drivers and improve road safety.

On the same day, the EP, following allegations that an MEP colluded with Russian security services, is to discuss this case and other interference attempts. Following the debate, a resolution is to be put to a vote on Thursday.

On 7 February MEPs are to discuss with the Council and Commission “the worrying reports” on the increase in islamophobic and anti-Semitic incidents across member states.

Also on 7 February, the EP is set to give its final approval to new rules to limit exposure values for lead and diisocyanates in the workplace.

It will also vote on a resolution taking stock of threats to the rule of law and media freedom in Greece. The text “will wrap up the debate that took place in the last plenary session”. It is expected to focus on media freedom (including surveillance and the use of spyware against journalists and political figures, and the ensuing allegations of political intervention in the investigations), and the safety of journalists, “especially in light of the lack of progress” in the investigation into the murder of journalist Giorgos Karaivaz in 2021.

On 6 February, MEPs are set to reaffirm the need for the EU to stand firmly and united behind Kyiv.

On 7 February, MEPs are expected to green light new rules to ensure transferred funds arrive immediately into the bank accounts of retail customers and businesses across the EU.

The Plenary is to debate proposals for setting the EU 2040 climate target on the afternoon of 6 February, shortly after they are adopted by the Commission.

On 7 February, MEPs are to decide on the EP’s position for negotiations with EU countries on EU rules on new genomic techniques to make the bloc’s food system more sustainable and resilient.

(Source: CNA)