The latest sitting of the European Parliament brought a wide-ranging agenda, spanning the future size of the Union, cross-border justice, strategic infrastructure and biodiversity. Law-makers weighed how to keep Europe competitive and connected while safeguarding fundamental rights and the natural environment.

Opening the door to new members

MEPs exchanged views on the political and institutional consequences of bringing in additional candidate countries. The debate highlighted the need to reform internal decision-making before any further enlargement, with several speakers urging a shift from unanimity to qualified majority voting in areas such as foreign policy. Others stressed that the credibility of the process depends on clear benchmarks for the rule of law and democratic standards.

UK joins the 2019 Hague Judgments Convention

Parliament welcomed the United Kingdom’s planned accession to the Hague Convention on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Judgments. Members noted that the move will streamline civil and commercial litigation across the Channel, offering clarity to businesses and citizens alike. Some cautioned, however, that effective cooperation still hinges on mutual trust in judicial independence.

Media freedom under pressure in Georgia

A resolution condemning the intimidation of journalists in Georgia—citing the case of press veteran Mzia Amaglobeli—passed with a broad majority. MEPs called for the Georgian authorities to ensure the safety of media workers and to align domestic law with European standards as the country pursues closer ties with the EU.

Electricity grids: Europe’s hidden backbone

Recognising that renewable power targets cannot be met without robust infrastructure, Parliament urged the Commission to accelerate long-term planning and cross-border investment in electricity grids. The adopted text presses for simplified permitting, advanced digital monitoring and incentives for smart storage to cope with fluctuating supply from wind and solar farms.

A Clean Industrial Deal

To keep heavy industry on home soil while cutting emissions, MEPs backed the outline of a Clean Industrial Deal. The plan combines targeted state aid, green public procurement and carbon contracts for difference. Supporters argued that it will protect jobs and climate goals; critics warned of budgetary constraints and potential market distortions.

A New Deal for Pollinators

Finally, Members rallied behind stronger action to halt the decline of bees and other pollinating insects. Proposals include pesticide-free buffer zones, wider adoption of precision farming and a continent-wide monitoring network. Advocates stressed that pollinators are indispensable for food security and rural livelihoods.

Looking ahead

The session underscored Parliament’s twin focus on competitiveness and sustainability. Whether discussing the Union’s next enlargement or the wiring of tomorrow’s green economy, MEPs insisted that democratic values and ecological limits must guide policy. Attention now turns to the Commission, which will have to translate today’s resolutions into concrete legislative proposals in the coming months.