EU Parliament’s Packed Agenda: From Budget Battles to Puppy Protection
The European Parliament is gearing up for what promises to be a marathon session next week, and they’re thoughtfully giving journalists a heads-up this Friday at 11 AM. (How considerate—they’re even providing interpretation in English and French!)
Running from April 27-30, the plenary session is absolutely stuffed with agenda items that range from the deadly serious to the surprisingly adorable.
The Heavy Hitters
MEPs will tackle the EU’s 2028-2034 budget—because nothing says “exciting Friday plans” like debating a multiannual financial framework. They’ll also dive into the Middle East crisis and its ripple effects on energy prices and fertilizer availability (turns out geopolitics affects your grocery bill).
On the justice front, Parliament will vote on holding Russia accountable for attacks on Ukrainian civilians and push forward legislation defining rape based on absence of consent—critical measures that deserve the spotlight.
The Progressive Stuff
In a move that acknowledges MEPs are, in fact, human beings, they’ll vote on proxy voting rights for pregnant members and those who’ve just given birth. Revolutionary concept: people who’ve created life shouldn’t lose their legislative voice.
The session also tackles cyberbullying and online harassment, because apparently the internet still hasn’t learned to play nice.
The Unexpected Star
But here’s the plot twist: buried in this agenda of geopolitical crises and budget negotiations are the first-ever EU standards to protect the health of cats and dogs. That’s right—while debating billion-euro budgets, Parliament is also ensuring Fluffy and Fido get proper protection.
Journalists wanting to participate can connect via Interactio (supported on iPads and Mac/Windows, because even parliamentary press briefings have tech requirements). First-timers should log in 30 minutes early—nothing says “professional journalist” like frantically troubleshooting audio issues during a live briefing.
The full circus streams live Friday morning. Popcorn not included.