EU Parliament Tackles Major Issues

In a significant session held on November 25, 2025, the European Parliament engaged in a series of pivotal debates shaping future EU policies on defence, safety, and international relations. The plenary session, capturing the attention of member states and stakeholders, marked a day of strategic discussions and voting on pressing issues.

The session opened with a debate on a newly proposed European defence industry programme, which was informally agreed upon with the Council. This €1.5 billion initiative aims to bolster the EU’s defence capabilities, enhance joint procurement efforts, and increase manufacturing, particularly to support Ukraine amidst ongoing conflicts. A final vote on this programme was scheduled for noon, with a press conference set for the following morning.

In addition to defence, the Parliament addressed child safety on the internet and toy standards. New regulatory measures were proposed to extend bans on harmful chemicals in toys and implement stricter rules for online marketplaces to ensure the safety and traceability of toys. Discussions also covered internet safety for minors, proposing restrictions on addictive design features in digital platforms and setting the minimum age for social media access to 16. These measures are part of the EU’s broader effort to protect children’s health and well-being in the digital age.

Furthermore, the session explored the EU’s dependence on rare earth imports from China, reflecting on the geopolitical and economic implications of this reliance. The debate underscored the urgency of developing a robust EU trade and industrial policy to mitigate vulnerabilities. Other important topics included the simplification of digital regulations, the 2026 budget, and geopolitical tensions in the Arctic.

This session not only highlighted the proactive steps taken by the European Parliament to address contemporary challenges but also set the stage for future legislative actions. Live coverage and further details were made available on the Parliament’s webstreaming services, ensuring transparency and public engagement.