EU Parliament’s Packed Week Ahead

The European Parliament is gearing up for a busy week from January 12 to 18, 2026, with a series of significant committee meetings and political group gatherings in Brussels. The agenda includes discussions on EU air passenger rights, strategic defence partnerships, affordable housing, and preparations for the upcoming plenary session.

Among the key topics, the Transport and Tourism Committee MEPs will vote on amendments to the EU air passenger rights, which aim to streamline compensation processes for delays over three hours and ensure the right for passengers to carry personal items and a small trolley on board without extra charges. This meeting is scheduled for Monday.

On Thursday, the Security and Defence Committee will evaluate the EU’s defence partnerships with several countries, including the UK, Canada, and the US, and consider their alignment with the EU’s broader defence policy goals. Additionally, the Special Committee on the Housing Crisis will hold its first discussion on the new affordable housing plan introduced by Commissioner Dan Jørgensen on December 16, 2025.

The week will also feature a discussion on Wednesday with EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, who will address the current international affairs and the EU’s role in global geopolitical challenges. Furthermore, the political groups will prepare for the January 19-22 plenary session, which will cover topics such as EU foreign, security, and defence policies, and celebrate the 40th anniversary of Spain and Portugal’s EU membership with dignitaries from those countries.

The European Parliament’s Press Service will provide a pre-session press briefing on Friday to discuss these extensive agendas and forthcoming events, indicating a pivotal week for EU policy-making and international relations.