EU Parliament’s Pivotal Week

This week, the European Parliament in Brussels will engage in a series of significant discussions and votes that could influence the future policies of the European Union. From November 10 to 16, 2025, MEPs will tackle a packed agenda including the outcomes of the European Council meeting, sustainability reporting, EU budget talks, and gender equality strategies.

A key focus will be the assessment of the October European Council’s decisions, where EU leaders discussed critical issues such as security, defense, and migration. This discussion will take place on Thursday morning, featuring a debate with Presidents Costa and von der Leyen. Another major event scheduled for Thursday is a vote on a proposal allowing MEPs proxy voting rights during pregnancy and postnatal periods, ensuring continuous representation and participation.

Additionally, the Parliament will address the EU’s long-term budget for 2028-2034 on Wednesday. Concerns have been raised by MEPs about the proposed spending ceiling and its implications for key EU programs and policies. Alongside budget discussions, Wednesday will also see debates on the EU’s 2026-2030 gender equality strategy, emphasizing the need for robust measures against gender-based violence and disparities in employment and pay.

Other notable sessions include the Environment, Climate, and Food Safety Committee’s decision on the EU’s 2040 targets for greenhouse gas emissions reduction, aiming to support the EU’s climate neutrality goal by 2050. Furthermore, negotiations will continue on Friday regarding the EU’s 2026 budget, with hopes to finalize a compromise in time for the November plenary session in Strasbourg.

The week will also feature a variety of briefings and ceremonial events, including a tribute in Paris to the victims of the November 2015 terrorist attacks, attended by European Parliament President Roberta Metsola. This agenda sets the stage for a week of critical deliberations that could shape the EU’s policy landscape for years to come.