Juan Fernando LÓPEZ AGUILAR

Policy topics Juan Fernando LÓPEZ AGUILAR is active on

What Juan Fernando LÓPEZ AGUILAR has said (80)

• 2026-06-17 “(10:44:13 – 10:45:27): Commissioner Sefkovich, when all the agencies and indicators show that, less people are arriving in Europe. And when after 2 years, we have the binding legislation in the migration asylum pack coming into force, we're about to adopt a returns regulation that flies in the face of all of this. Not only does it give back the possibility of member states contacting governors of 3rd countries for detention for unlimited time of prisoners in then detention and return hubs, then we also have this flying in the face of other regulations. And not only is this being done, but it's also being done in a way that violates the charter of fundamental rights that protects everyone, not just European, but asylum speakers and, 3rd country nationals. So this, flies in the face of European law. Frustrating for everyone.”
  Asylum & border control
• 2026-06-16 “(15:10:12 – 15:11:31): Thank you, president. Commissioner Tombroskas, reducing the administrative burden for SMEs is, an absolutely essential target that we need to pursue. But to ensure that we achieve it, we need to keep support for businesses. We can't destroy programs such as the COSMY program. Less developed regions and regions with, difficulties such as outermost regions are particularly vital if we look at what has happened in Canaries in the Canary Islands. So my question is, can we ensure the continuation of these of this assistance, is part of the MFF and the European social pillar in the next budget? And my 2nd question, administrative burdens in, artisanal fishing, for example. Will this commission reduce the administrative burden on artisanal fishing, for example? Thank you.”
  Funding for OCTs and outermost regions
• 2026-06-16 “Madam Vicunin, the programmed strategic autonomy requires, of course, a whole series of regulation, a whole series of rules like a CHIPS Act, which creates a balance between competitiveness and security with, technological infrastructures, which will be for Europeans there. But the most important thing of this in in this particular initiative is the mobilization of investments of these €5,000,000,000 in order to close that particular digital gap, which we have fallen victim of. We need that for the development of AI. Otherwise, we fall victim to China. If we want to be realistic and if we want technological sovereignty to exist, those billions are absolutely imperative. And it has to be included in the next MFF, and that is something which is once again indispensable. Thank you.”
  EU digital & tech sovereignty
• 2026-06-16 “The programmed Strategic autonomy requires, of course, a whole series of regulation, a whole series of rules like a Chips act, which creates a balance between competitiveness and security with technological infrastructures, which will be for Europeans there. But the most important thing of this in this particular initiative is the mobilisation of investments of these €5 billion, in order to close that particular digital gap which we have fallen victim of. We need that for the development of AI. Otherwise, we fall victim to China if we want to be realistic, and if we want a technological sovereignty to exist, those billions are absolutely imperative and it has to be included in the next MFF. And that is something which is once again indispensable. Thank you.”
  EU industrial funding (mechanism level: EU-pooled vs nationally-financed) · EU digital & tech sovereignty
• 2026-06-16 “(15:13:46 – 15:14:55): Thank you, commissioner Dobrovsky, for your reply. But please make sure that it's not only you taking note, that you convey the message to the whole of the European Commission. For the audibles regions, it's absolutely essential to keep the level of support that they have enjoyed so far because they have this unique legal basis in article 349 of the European Union. It takes regional policy, takes agricultural policy, takes social policy to help out small and medium enterprises precisely in order to diversify their economy so heavily dependent on maybe agriculture, maybe tourism. And finally, thank you for the sensitive answer when it comes to artisanal fishery. They really need it to simplify their administrative burden. Thank you. If you want for 2 minutes. No. Thank you. I think it was more, comments and further, questions. So, thank you, Roy, for the good words.”
  Funding for OCTs and outermost regions
• 2026-03-11 “E-001001/2026 Answer given by Executive Vice-President Fitto on behalf of the European Commission The Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) was established as a temporary instrument with a clear end date in 2026. In line with the legal deadlines and the temporary nature of the Facility, the Commission must make the final payments by 31 December 2026. The RRF Regulation does not allow any flexibility regarding the satisfactory fulfilment of milestones and targets after August 2026 1 . The Commission is working closely with Member States to address implementation bottlenecks. In the Communication ‘NextGenerationEU - The road to 2026’ 2 , the Commission has set a clear path forward guiding Member States to take all the necessary actions to ensure a smooth implementation of the RRF in its final months. In particular, the RRF Regulation 3 allows Member States to revise recovery and resilience plans if objective circumstances make it impossible for them to deliver on the previously agreed commitments. Member States can request targeted amendments to their plans and the Commission will support such revisions within the framework of the RRF Regulation. To this end, the Commission has also taken steps to simplify the process for amending the plans. If, despite the above-mentioned efforts, some of the last milestones or targets are not satisfactorily fulfilled, the corresponding disbursement will not be made. The Commission acknowledges the difficulties faced by several outermost regions in implementing RRF funds within the given deadline. However, it does not envisage proposing any extraordinary measures under article 349 Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union in this context. 1 Article 20(5)(d) Regulation (EU) 2021/241 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 February 2021 establishing the Recovery and Resilience Facility (OJ L 057, 18.2.2021). 2 COM(2025) 310 final. 3 Article 21 of the Recovery and Resilience Facility Regulation (please see footnote 1).”
  Cohesion and rural funding · Funding for OCTs and outermost regions
• 2025-07-17 “E-002972/2025 Answer given by Mr Brunner on behalf of the European Commission The Commission is aware of the Polish legislation providing for the possibility to temporarily suspend access to asylum, and of the decision of the Polish government to apply that measure and to further extend it. The Commission is in contact with the Polish authorities on this matter. The Commission supports Member States in countering the threats arising from the weaponisation of migration by Russia and Belarus. As recalled in the Communication of December 2024 1 , Member States can take exceptional measures to counter the weaponisation of migration, provided that they are proportionate, temporary, limited to what is needed and for well-defined cases. Such measures need to respect fundamental rights, including the principle of non-refoulement. The Commission monitors and ensures the correct implementation of EU law by Member States in accordance with the Treaties. 1 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:52024DC0570.”
  Asylum & border control
• “Of the many things that have been discussed, this is the first that has sounded sensible from my point of view. Developing European capabilities that are deterrent as well cannot depend on 27 different budgets that are increased in an arbitrary way. It also cannot be based on this very vague commitment from van der Leyen about the amount that she was going to devote to investing in defense. We need to remove tariffs, remove barriers and make strategic choices so that the investment makes sense in cybersecurity and high tech mechanisms in very highly specialized jobs. Only in that way will we be able to really build a deterrent capability in Europe, which could be the starting point of a European power and a European army as well.”
  EU competences on defence
• “Senora. Madam Ombudswoman, Mrs. Teresa Angelino, obviously we would like to wish you all the best in your office and in your term of office. And indeed, we did the same thing to your predecessor, Mrs. O'Reilly. But of course, when it came to your interview for this position, we recalled that the position of the European ombudsperson is a position where you need to defend European citizens when there is maladministration on the part of the EU institutions. And of course, all of this based on the charter. Now, I remember, you know, there's now a new majority. Epp, the far right, talking about Frontex. Frontex mission is apparently to stop migrants from coming. No, not at all. That's not its mission. You know, they are there to guard our coasts, our our borders. But it's not to stop people coming in at any cost, at the cost of human lives, etc. therefore, we have some standards. They are ethical standards, transparency, accountability, good governance, the Charter of Fundamental Rights, articles 49 and what follows. It is something that binds to the European Parliament. It is an ethical and moral commandment that we must abide by.”
  Activities of EU Ombudsman
• “Agree with the Question time. That's been one of my obsessions over the years, we should actually make it happen. That's a real parliament. We always said this is a very unique institution, the only direct body, directly elected body in the in the EU system, in the EU architecture. We are Parliament, we are directly elected, we are supranational and extent and we are lawmaking body. We invest the commission. We can bring it down by a a motion of censure. But controlled parliamentary scrutiny should be actually exercised, truly exercised on a regular basis, at least in the plenary. There should be a couple of hours question, answer, question, answer, question, answer and the Commission should be there to respond. Then that is part of the idea of strengthening interinstitutional relations and effective cooperation between European Parliament and the and the Commission. And it also relates to detailed information about all policy areas, getting to know that exceptional procedures, namely article 122, are actual exceptional, are actual exceptional. That should be the exception rather than the rule. We have made a word about article 122 on good grounds. Then there is also the point of strengthening accountability. We have mentioned related to article 225. Whenever there is an Indian report, the Commission should follow. The Commission should follow. It's not a choice that we we take the bother of, uh, of asking from the commission, a legislative initiative and they actually not and they do not they should follow article 22 2224 25 225 should be taken seriously. And then Interinstitutional cooperation in budgetary matters, including a scrutiny role to be strengthened in defence and security. European common defence and security strategies should be subject to the scrutiny. So exchanges prior to the adoption of mandates in that, in that in that field should be also of a of importance, as it is the case of the flow of information and negotiations on negotiations and the implementation of international agreements and memorandums of understanding. Those are the points we are willing to make to this framework agreement report. Thank you.”
  EU political integration
• “Thank you very much, Commissioner. This is one of those times when the title of the debate is a bit misleading. Now there is a crisis in the Middle East, but the crisis is an illegal war, which was triggered by Trump and Netanyahu with very harmful consequences for the European Union. The strategy needs to look about how about taxing those big oil companies that are making huge profits, profits. But we also need to get over the double standard, which is jeopardizing the legitimacy of the European Union and its reputation. There wasn't one mention in miss von der Leyen's speech of suspending the association agreement with Israel that breaches human rights and does not comply with the European treaty. And when it comes to denouncing the attacks on Lebanon and the war in Iran, and also the apartheid in Israel against the Palestinian population in in the Gaza Strip. Thank you, Mrs. Sardon.”
  Relations with Israel - Palestine
• “(17:15:19 – 17:17:05): Thank you, chair. According to rule 56, paragraph 4 of the rules of procedure, I proceed to the reading of a statement on behalf of my S and D group, which is the largest the second largest group in this European Parliament, the second largest. The mission report does not fully or accurately reflect what was observed and discussed during the monitoring group Mission to Spain held on sixteenseventeen February 20 26. Several sections raise serious concerns as they present a partial and at times misleading account of the information gathered during meetings with the Spanish authorities, representatives, civil society and academia. Available evidence, including the European Commission's 2025 report on the rule of law and the discussions held with the monitoring group in September 2026 2025 clearly indicates that despite ongoing political polarization and institutional tension just like in any other open society, just like any other democratic society. Spain's rule of law framework remains robust, structurally sound firmly anchored in a mature constitutional system with no indication whatsoever of systemic risk. We firmly reiterate that the European Parliament missions in Member States must be conducted according to strict principles of impartiality, grounded neutrality and based firmly on verifiable evidence. So we, S and D, members of parliament, therefore, withdraw entirely entirely from this mission report.”
  Rule of law in Spain
• “You said an end to discrimination on the basis of sex and gender identity is set out in the Charter of European Fundamental Rights. Uh, wage discrimination is already set out. It already exists. It was in the Rome Treaty. And yet, 70 years later, we still see this wage gap as being a huge challenge for the EU. It doesn't just have an effect on care, and the fact that share duties aren't properly shared between men and women, and an equal parental leave. It's also because of a gross wage. Differences in all areas in health care, social services, educational services. Women are doubly discriminated against. So with this challenge, what do we need? A rigorous implementation of a legislation and active policies to ensure equal pay and equal access. And Spain is an example here. Thank you.”
  Gender roles, equality and inclusion
• “Merci, madame. It'll be a minute. Take it as a fact that we. Yes. And members being part of this special committee, democracy shield, do share the importance of the lessons learned which are expressed in the conclusions. But I have an additional question to raise to you. And it is that it's only obvious that comparative evidence shows that when it comes to foreign information manipulation and interference, distrust, political polarization, and inequality are largely to make a bigger impact when there are pre-existing internal fragilities in democratic society. So the question is, are you willing to provide a holistic approach so that beyond the external threats, the external actors, we are also addressing institutional legitimacy and reduction of inequalities? The question is how the Commission intends to integrate into the Democracy Shield, a comprehensive approach to combine space security, social resilience, paying attention to reducing inequalities and enhancing democratic trust.”
  Foreign interference in Europe
• “President. Sexual abuse online is an example of a major cross-border crime. And we're responsible. This is our competence because the crime may cross borders. It's about striking a balance, though, between protecting Minus from pedophilic acts, while at the same time safeguarding privacy. But we did this in the CSA. We strike that balance, but it is stuck in council. So the CSA m regulation was what we've been waiting for. And at the same time, we've had to extend the interim regulation, which pertains to Eprivacy and Eprivacy regulation, so that we cover the obligation to detect and to withdraw and then to prosecute CS a m it's about protecting minors from all forms of crime and sexual abuse and paedophilia online. Thank you.”
  Privacy & detection of online child abuse
• “Mr. president, Commissioner McAuliffe, cyber bullying no doubt affects all Europeans. It affects millions of people across the 27 member states, and it particularly hits vulnerable people women, children, I'm sure. And it's not just something which moves us, it's something which should encourage us to act. And it can't just be about parental control. And it's not just about digital literacy, nor is it just about coordinating national strategies. We need to have a European level response. And first and foremost, we need to deal with the big tech platforms and their unacceptable business models because they are undermining fundamental rights that we really value, and we need to ensure that they comply with the Digital Services Act and all European legislation. We need to have exemplary penalties if they do not take down illegal content. But secondly, the Commission has come forward with an initiative to make cyber bullying a European crime. Clear definitions, common standards and common penalties applying to all European criminal codes so that we can also deal in criminal legal terms with cyber bullying. It really is something which deserves to be described as a crime.”
  Digital platforms liability for harmful and illegal content
• “thank you. The EU EU Cooperation Agreement with the UK, which took so much effort for negotiation and which we're debating now, was led by the foreign affairs and the trade bodies in the Parliament. But there were so many other things involved as well, justice, etc. because certainly we have judicial political issues which are involved in cooperation as well. The EU and the UK since Brexit happened have been separated. But the message is that we've seen free circulation getting worse with more border checks, with the need for passports and entry conditions have been tightened up as well. So we've seen a huge prejudice to the link established through Erasmus as well, which encourages future generations who want to go and work and have experience in the UK as well. So please come back to the table because it's been absent in this discussion is that point. Thank you.”
  EU-UK data transfer
• “You, chair. Commissioner Brunner, as it has been expressed by many of my colleagues, there are aspects which are worth commenting on this new visa strategy, including, of course, the restricted visa measures to citizens of hostile countries and the enlarging of multiple entry visas which are to be compliant with data protection standards. But as I have a minute, I will dwell on something that has not been touched upon. Annex to the visa code. There is the visa free regulation annex with the same legal value. It has to be a regulation in order to to comprehend visa waivers. And the thing is that visa waivers has advocates in this Parliament on the grounds that it not only facilitates citizens of third countries to make it to the European Union, but also citizens of the European Union to make it alike to third countries on the grounds of reciprocity. Making an impact with their values, with their way of life. And so helping to bring about change even in countries which are not exactly our fundamental right standards, but are willing to share the same technical tools in order to, to secure the, the, the merits of visa waiver. So my question is, are you are you contemplating an initiative on a new. As it has been the case so far ever since the Lisbon Treaty entered into force at least once, a mandate of the European Parliament has been an initiative of the of of the Commission in order to enlarge to widen the countries which are exempt of visa requirements on the grounds of reciprocity. Are you contemplating that initiative?”
  Legal migration
• “Thank you very much. President. Vice president. Having this investigative committee, whether it's Pegasus or the Democracy Shield that we have at the moment, we are trying to learn lessons from bad experiences, and we come up with conclusions. And that's a mandate for initiative. It's a call for the commission to act, but we see a real lack of action. Whether it's Pegasus or Predator in Greece, it was used not to deal with the serious crimes or terrorism with the right judicial Authorization, making sure that fundamental rights were protected. It was used to spy on judges and prosecutors. Members of the political opposition. So. And Vice President Coonan. It is vital that the Commission actually implement these recommendations, act against the member states that are spying on people. This has nothing to do with, uh, collective security. We need to learn the lessons and to act against the company in Israel that provided this software.”
  Surveillance equipment & spyware
• “Thank you, Madam President. Commissioner. Thank you so much. Well, clearly there's a separation here between those who feel that housing is a social right. And whereas others believe that housing is subject to speculation and investment. So we need to focus on the rights, the rights of the individuals, the rights of those without a home, the rights to vulnerables vulnerable people in favour of short term rentals. But it's only the EU that can do one thing. You can make sure that there is no concentration of ha of, of, uh, housing in those vulture funds because that is the real problem. That is why it makes it so difficult for younger people to have access to housing And the same is true for workers. So you need to prevent vulture funds and investment funds to buy up housing. That is part of the solution, and that is what the EU can deal with people who have the right to a home. Thank you.”
  EU housing policy
• “Thank you. President. Commission. President von der Leyen has talked about that requires unity. But it is difficult when you've got Viktor Orban inviting Putin to Budapest. Uh, we're talking about Russian assets to try and finance, uh, funding in Ukraine and also the asylum and migration pact. It needs unity to implement, but also to strengthen returns as well. We need to have mutually interesting agreements with these countries of origin and transit. We also have to combat this model of illicit trafficking that von der Leyen talked about. We have to link this by opening up legal avenues as well. That's the only way to break this model of illicit trafficking and, uh, incentivize returns. There has to be an incentive for these countries of origin and transit to negotiate with the EU so we can have dignified returns that respect fundamental rights. Thank you very much.”
  Asylum & border control
• “And thank you, Mr. Baberowski. Thank you. I add my voice to to the appreciation and acknowledgment that you deserve for the years in office. And of course, by the presenting before us 20 years as a record of the European Data Protection Supervisor. And my question goes short. First, you mentioned that we have a situation with the United States with the so-called transatlantic data transfer. And in that regard, you also mentioned that the situation could only go worse with the current administration. The Trump administration, we highlighted through the negotiation of the latest agreement with the United States as to data transfer, that it was all depending on an executive order that could be anytime repealed by the forthcoming president. That, according to your view, to your experience, to your prognosis, could well be the case only to worsen the situation that has taken so long from the European Parliament to negotiate a new data transfer, transatlantic data transfer with the US. And the second goes as to artificial intelligence on the Brussels effect. You also mentioned the Brussels effect. Are we to expect that we are setting a standard that could actually be replicated by some other actors, considering the difficulties that we encounter precisely to impose the Brussels effect and the EU regulation with the big giants in the name, which are, of course, originated in the other side of the Atlantic in the United States. But some of them are rooted on tax grounds in European Union member states, namely Ireland. Thank you.”
  EU-US data transfers
• “President. Metsola. Commissioner. Siskovic. President. Costa. Um, now, the most useful conclusions are those that we don't find in writing, but we can read between the lines and that is that we absolutely need to look at unanimity and the difficulty that we have with the 27 forming a coalition of the willing and having to exclude Hungary once again because it is so incompatible. And we need to be responsible as members of the European Union and comply with the European Charter of Fundamental Rights that we have debated here in this very plenary. Secondly, when you underscore the need to beef up the external dimension of our migration policy, you always stress returns and voluntary repatriation. And you never say that it's important to negotiate with those countries from which these desperate people are fleeing. And once again, we need the kind of diplomatic architecture which has mutually beneficial agreements. And we need a common visa policy which makes sure we have a humanitarian policy as well as legal visa channels. Thirdly, we need to look at the kind of standards which will give us a common strategy. We have an obsolete system. We need to have representation in the Security Council and make sure that we've got Europe at the table in the Security Council.”
  Asylum & border control
• “But then there is the case of EU electoral reform. You know that we got a EU Electoral act which dates all the way back to 1976, 1976, and it needs to be reformed. There are two initiatives, 1 in 2018 and one other 2022, and it's still pending on the council to make up its mind and to work on it and to, to, to to to to push it forward, trying to build its own consensus. Because yes, let's face it, takes unanimity as the rules are by now, as the rules are by now takes unanimity, but at least it needs to work on it on every rotating president want you to hear something about it. And then there is another file which is well worth noticing pending on your presidency, which is one we set in motion just recently one in order to respond to the situation of pregnant MEPs which are about to give birth or after giving birth. And we adopted an initiative which is precisely reforming the EU Electoral Act, article six, in order to make it possible for women who are giving birth to be present in the voting by someone of her delegation in that particular case. And that could be perfectly, perfectly completed, perfectly completed by the Cyprus presidency, because it's so, so tiny, so targeted, so, so, so well meant that if you if you put it on the table, it should be adopted. Just just like that. What's your word about it?”
  Gender roles, equality and inclusion
• “The Democracy Shield is the name of a special committee of this parliament, of which I have the honour of being a member. And the idea is to defend the European idea of democracy against its enemy, non-state actors as well as foreign states. Also, these very large online platforms and their model, which uses addictive algorithms and polarises societies, dividing them into different segments that are more and more irreconcilable between themselves. But we're not indefensible vis a vis this. We have the act that the DSA, the Digital Services Act, which has tools available. So, for example, the European Commission can fine businesses just as they can do against member states. I mean, they find meta, for example, many million euros. But the fact is that European democracy has ways of defending itself. Here we're talking about freedom of expression. We're talking about algorithms that polarise and spread hate. And this is undermining democratic discourse. Thank you.”
  Disinformation & online freedoms
• “Thank you. Have we learned from COVID commissioner? We have learned some lessons, and we have an outbreak of the new pandemic, antivirus. So we we've seen that, viruses don't don't know borders, so we need to also be, evidence based. We need to have a responsible solidarity as we've seen, from the government of Spain, and you recognize this. Now the tenth and the May 11, there was, people who who left the vessel, and then we express our condolences to the the families of those who have lost, their lives. But to those who said this is an exercise of solidarity. And, some people have tried to exploit the fear in this, but the response always needs to be strengthened civil protection, European solidarity, and we need to link together health policies. We need to increase funding levels for research.”
  EU competences on health (internal-competence axis, sharpened)
• “Mr. President. Thank you, Vice President Buchanan. We've heard many times here in this debate that sexual violence against women and children and sexual deepfakes have become a business model for platforms. The far right thinks it's a business model, but we've actually approved laws within this Parliament on, for instance, in the DSA and the AI act that what is a crime offline should be a crime online as well. It goes further than that too. We need to ensure that the Commission is effectively applying EU legislation to these oligarchs. To this business model of online platforms, we also need to make it clear that we're not going to give in to any blackmail from platforms supported by the white House. Nor should we have an omnibus. Rowing back on these standards. We're talking about fundamental rights that need protecting. We're talking about women and children being exposed to this horrific, uh, exploitation and abuse.”
  Digital platforms liability for harmful and illegal content
• “(15:58:48 – 16:00:54): Thank you. For some time, this has been, highest priority for many of us here in the European Parliament, particularly, of course, in this leader committee, which is so keen to fundamental rights, approach to issues that have to do with the protection of minors. So we have discussed thoroughly for years all age purification strategies and initiatives at hand. And yes, now there is a move by the European Commission, and I would like to ask the European Commission about the time line to have it effectively implemented. And of course, taken for granted that it's going to be, safe under the point of view of the architecture of safeguards to the rights, which are involved and protected. More than that, what is the idea of enforcement that this age verification tool, a verification application is going to have us to compel the platforms to be lower binding because we have seen also for years that digital platforms, do have a business model that has to do a lot with its influence on those who are willing to accept that kind of a game. And the thing is that, of course, parental guardian is is not enough. There has to be also some enforcement by the by the, European Commission as to do as to EU law so that platforms are actually systematically compelled to implement age verification in a reliable way. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Lopez Haidler, Mr. Greens.”
  Safety features & content control for child protection online
• “Vice president Fitto. Losing out on one of the links in the funding for regions is not just an existential crisis for Europe. It's about that sense of belonging in citizens. And we work for those citizens, particularly thinking here of those in the outermost regions, you can't do more with less. And that's why you will see the socialist priorities set out in our cohesion policy funding for emergencies happening on an ever more frequent basis, but also financing for new priorities like housing policy, one of the new pillars of cohesion that's ideologically divisive, because there are those who think that housing is just a commodity to speculate on, but we don't see things that way. We see housing as a basic right, and the EU has a responsibility to ensure the right kind of funding is provided for that, and housing must be included under cohesion policy. Thank you president. Very well.”
  Cohesion and rural funding
• “Thank you, Madam President. Um, Commissioner, article four requires the EU to protect children with all the means available to it, including criminal law against horrendous crimes such as sexual abuse, online child pornography, exploitation of minors for reasons of sexual exploitation. Also using I, the UN, the EU is the only legislator able to actually provide rules on the major operators on the web when they're involved in such horrendous and offensive crimes, and so it's crucial that we should have this, these provisions adopted because it deals with criminal penalties against the perpetrators. Now, the it should be ensured that these crimes cannot lapse either. We have to provide for protection for the victims and the witnesses, and we need effective whistleblowing schemes as well. Huge work has been put in to provide almost unanimous support for this directive, which deserves our support, and the EPP now has a mandate to discuss this in the final stage. We need to see this go through council and see the light of day. Thank you.”
  Privacy & detection of online child abuse
• “This ever increasing recruitment of young people, of minors to commit crimes, serious crimes, drug trafficking, and violent crimes is happening in all member states, but particularly in Northern Europe and the Scandinavian countries as well, where we really are forced to act now. And I think that we have to tackle online activity. First of all, we need to be extremely vigilant, especially under 13 years of age. The Digital Service Act, means that we have to revise a legal content as well. And then secondly, all of us have the, rules for the prevention of a a crime as we just should all be aware of the backdrop to this, worrying trend. And then thirdly, prevention. Fight against social exclusion and inequality. We need to focus on, youth protection services as the European internal security, directive says to protect our children above all? Thank you.”
  Safety features & content control for child protection online
• “Merci, madame. It'll be a minute. Take it as a fact that we. Yes. And members being part of this special committee, democracy Shield, do share the importance of the lessons learned which are expressed in the conclusions. But I have an additional question to raise to you. And it is that it's only obvious that comparative evidence shows that when it comes to foreign information manipulation and interference, distrust, political polarization, and inequality are largely to make a bigger impact when there are pre-existing internal fragilities in democratic society. So the question is, are you willing to provide a holistic approach so that beyond the external threats, the external actors, we are also addressing. Institutional legitimacy and reduction of inequalities. The question is how the Commission intends to integrate into the Democracy Shield, a comprehensive approach to combine space security, social resilience, paying attention to reducing inequalities and enhancing democratic trust.”
  Foreign interference in Europe
• “Mr. Sefcovic. We agree the national security strategy from Mr. Trump is insulting for the European Union. But this also speeds up our strategic autonomy. But the question is how without an MFF which has the resources for this, that that does not have funding for a problem such as affordable housing and regulating the intervention of vulture funds. With the green ambition to. Prolong the combustion engine availability in Europe. What about all these things? What Trump wants is he wants to support far right and nationalism, and he wants a weakened, divided Europe. But the response we need is the opposite. We need a united Europe finally, that has woken up and that defends its values. Thank you.”
  EU-US relations
• “Thank you. President. Vice president for the last mandate ended with an excellent achievement. And it's unfortunate that the achievements of that period are now being subjected to a kind of dismantling under the pretext of simplification or realism or lightning burdens or competitiveness, the just and green transition. The Immigration and Asylum pact and the digital agenda. The objective of that was to ensure that the big digital platforms and their business models were subject to regulation, and it's hard to imagine that in such little time, the. Same pessimism is emerging as we saw when it came to the data protection regulation. We'd put in place the highest standards in the world in terms of guaranteeing confidentiality of personal data. And SMEs have taken that on board just as successfully as public administrations. So that is why it is clear that simplification is not about regulation, and we're not undermining our standards. We shouldn't be subject to the blackmail or pressure from big tech companies or the Trump government that supports them. So this is really a matter for the EU. It's not just about regulatory power. It's about our authority and our credibility. Vice president, thank you.”
  EU digital & tech sovereignty
• “Thank you very much, Commissioner Labib. We have over 700 seats in this Parliament and we have very different, many different governments in the EU. So it's not easy to explain this problem, but we have this anti-discrimination directive and it's been blocked for well over a decade now. It's simply unacceptable. Unacceptable. It's about protecting people against discrimination. That's in the Charter of Fundamental Rights. This is not this is about anybody, not just Europeans, foreigners as well. And it's not just about race, sex or religion. No. It's also about age based discrimination, disability, sexual orientation belonging to a minority, for instance. So this directive would actually bolster protection against discrimination in member states, whether legislation such as in Hungary, where there is anti-LGBTQ laws that that ban pride. Even so. Yet presidency, it is time to unblock this directive and to resist against the minority of member states that refuse to accept it.”
  EU policy on integration and ethnic, racial and religious discrimination
• “Thank you, chair. And I would like to appreciate the representatives of the various units of the European Commission to present us with this European preparedness. And certainly this is a discussion we're having in people who have a certain level of specialty. But I'm truly concerned about the way we communicate to the European citizens, which are directly represented in the European Parliament, which is in a way which is understandable and not laughable, because, let's face it, when first the very idea of European preparedness came up, there was some laugh about it, and we would like to go serious and actually takes response specific and sharp to a number of questions. First, posting risk EU, particularly when aerial firefighting, medical and energy. How are we to implement that enhancement of the mechanism as we have known it so far? Second EU crisis coordination hub. How is to relate with the existing emergency response coordination center in a way that is not dysfunctional and actually added value. And finally, how are we to secure key partners involvement and cooperation when it comes to tackling global challenges and future crises? Thank you.”
  EU public communication strategy
• “Certainly it won't be the end of it. We are seeing we are witnessing a technological revolution which is unprecedented in the history of mankind. But what brings us together, members of the Committee of Liberty, Justice and Home Affairs and members of the Constitutional Affairs Committee, its impact on democracy, impact on law, impact on fundamental rights. That's a concern, because it's only obvious that in this revolution in which it will become impossible to tell the difference between fact and fake, between truth and lie. Everything that is relevant for us as European Parliament is at stake. So I got the question first as to the platforms tools to identify risks in artificial intelligence driven disinformation. Deepfakes. Is there anything better that we could do? Is there anything that could be improved as to fill the gap between formal compliance and its real impact on fundamental rights, rule of law and democracy, and to protect the integrity of electoral processes, most importantly. That's my minute. Thank you.”
  Disinformation & online freedoms
• “Thank you chair. At this stage of our gathering of this interparliamentary conference, it's been much told about the impact of artificial intelligence as to democratic processes. Certainly artificial intelligence is not a threat. Artificial intelligence is a. Light speed revolution which is underway. And it's a fact. So a negative reactionary attitude against artificial intelligence is certainly a no go. Certainly not. But the thing is that that doesn't mean that we are to ignore that artificial intelligence is not neutral. It can actually damage democratic processes Instead of fostering democratic processes, artificial intelligence can actually serve democratic enhancement instead of hurting or distorting democratic processes. And that's the point we should be agreeing in this conversation of us. What's the role of parliaments? Of course, consistent with the role that the European Parliament has exercised in the past mandate putting in place legislation in order precisely to get hold and tackle the challenges of artificial intelligence, making them compatible with human oversight, with accountability, with transparency, and hopefully certainly legal responsibility of the platforms behind them. But having said this, there's much to be done when it comes to harmful practices, dark patterns, enhancing digital literacy training. European citizens educating European citizens to mastering the tools of artificial intelligence. And, of course, preventing interference of algorithms, particularly addictive algorithms and algorithmic algorithmic systems. As to parliamentary and democratic processes. And that is the point of article 223, which is the one regarding the common safeguards that the European Union should be putting in place when adapting the European Electoral Act and its implementation into the national legal systems according to their constitutional requirements. So the final conclusion is that it's only obvious that strengthening cooperation both of us national parliaments and European Parliament is the challenge ahead in order to advance multilateral efforts grounded on democratic values and protection of fundamental rights. That is the point we should be asserting in the forthcoming future. When it comes to mastering legally, legally mastering artificial intelligence related challenges.”
  Artificial Intelligence
• “Well, first of all, good to see you. And, welcome back to the European Parliament. We used to engage quite often in all kinds of talks, and so it's it's it's a real pleasure to to have you on the podium in good shape. I'm sure you know that we've been working for more than 1 year in this Democracy Shield Special Committee with the clear understanding that all democracy and democratic institutions are in trouble, not only from within, but also from outside. When it comes to hybrid threats, disinformation campaign, cyber attacks, of course, you you you got the whole picture in mind. Actually, you dealt with it in your responsibilities as vice president of the former European Commission. So in that regard, I would like you to address specifically a couple of points, which are of our interest considering that we have actually carried out more than 1 year of work, and we have put in writing a number of conclusions so far. First, sure you know that we have proposed we have come out with the idea of a European certain for democratic resilience. What do we mean by that? Kind of a stakeholder platform to facilitate dialogue and cooperation with actors which are reliable when it comes to protecting democratic society, civil society, researchers, academics, fact checkers, media providers. What would you think about that, added value? Because, of course, we have seen the objection that would only it would only add up to the labyrinth of institutions, centers, units, with acronyms and overlapping competencies in an overloaded landscape so far. So what would you think would be the best expected, added value from this, democratic resilience center? And the second goes as to, naturally, the Digital Services Act because that is legislation that we have put in place. Of course, we have done our best to make it enforceable and to count on the European Commission to enforce the Digital Services Act when it comes to addressing online platforms, amplifying harmful narratives and disinformation in order to make sure that there is accountability and transparency transparency in the digital sphere. You know that we have been in trouble in order to enforce this digital services act when it comes to the big digital tools. And it's increasingly the message, including by heads of government, that we are seeing a situation which is beyond reason in which big platforms are actually defying democratic institution and national governments. I would like you to ponder on the matter.”
  Disinformation & online freedoms
• “Thank you. And thank you for the presentation. I think it's kind of a sad irony that the Commission took initiative on this equal Treatment directive 2008, before the Treaty of Lisbon, entered into force before the Charter of Fundamental Rights entered into force, along with the treaty with the same value as the treaty, article six of the treaty of the European Union. And yet, all of these years member states which allowed the Treaty of Lisbon. The treaty of the European Union and the Charter of Fundamental Rights to actually enter into force has been resisting resisting with all their means at disposal, in order to object on the grounds of subsidiarity, on the grounds of legal certainty, on the grounds. Let's face it, political will, namely facing the costs of taking rights seriously. So my point to you after your examination of the situation, of course we do complain. We keep putting pressure both on the on on the council to unblock the decision because it takes unanimity. The Commission still holds this issue in the agenda and we keep the pressure. But is there a way that enhanced cooperation, some circumventing of unanimity rule could make the trick, could make it possible to make a breakthrough to this equal treatment directive. Who has been waiting for, for for for its unblocking for 18 years in a row? Thanks.”
  EU competences on human rights
• “Mr. president, the European Parliament is a budgetary authority and there are very conservative views that believe that less can be done or more can be done with less. And this is what we saw last year. The Socialists and Democrats have made an effort because we need to face up to the social and economic challenges, housing, housing and absolute urgency. And the program of values and rights based on the rule of law and the migration fund and internal solidarity, which makes it possible for the impact for the pact on immigration and asylum. Uh, will be covered by that. And we need to also be, uh, related to the transit countries. But all of this is with fit fits into a multiannual framework, and the commission from 28 to 35 doesn't seem to take this into account. And this is unviable. Thank you.”
  Size of EU budget
• “Commissioner, it was inevitable that here in the European Parliament, we would hear a reaffirmation of the European Union's commitment to international law. And the ICC is a key part of the architecture of the international order which binds the European Union as a source of law. Article 21 says that there's no impunity for crimes against humanity and genocide, etc., and the European Union has an obligation to protect those who work for the ICC who are exposed to arbitrary international sanctions, particularly when they're European, but not only. And in this case, it's the US that is the problem. So we've got this blocking statute, an instrument that protects these people and also reaffirms our strategic autonomy and our commitment to international law and criminal law, again, and against impunity against the most serious crimes. It also clearly expresses the fact that the European Union cannot betray its commitment to international law without betraying itself. Thank you. President.”
  Support for International Criminal Court
• “Commissioner Virkkunen. We absolutely want the Parliament to continue to be involved in this governance forum, and we feel that it's important that we do this, but we need to be consistent with European values, and our legislation needs to be consistent. From the last legislature to this one, we need to have an ambitious digital legislature, a body of legislation, and this needs to include AI. We hear about the Brussels effect, the issue that Brussels regulation has an impact beyond the confines of the EU. Now we can actually set a very good example if we actually do implement these fines, for example, on on Google, then this could be exemplary and we can actually stand up for privacy and fundamental rights at a global scale, and we can promote our strategic independence and autonomy rather than yielding to the pressure of the giants of the internet, which Trump wants to protect, for example, in Silicon Valley. So let's please stick to our principles with this internet governance.”
  EU rules on digital competition
• “Thank you. President. Council has made commitments, but in order for them to be followed through on, we need unity if we're going to truly achieve reparation for Russians. Russia's war of aggression on Ukraine. We need to use those confiscated assets. And we need to say that the Sharm el Sheikh summit did not lead to a true peace. But we need resources to be available to in order for guarantees and for council's words to be respected. Need to follow through with proper financial support in the MFF 300 billion for safe, affordable housing. Solidarity in the Migration and Asylum pact. Maintaining cohesion policy and regional policy because they're under threat in a totally unacceptable MFF. So the von der Leyen Commission needs to withdraw its MFF proposal and re establish a regional policy at the heart of EU.”
  Russia-Ukraine conflict (10th term)
• “And that is in my assessment, in our political assessment from the S&D group. One of the reasons why we are having this so-called artificial intelligence omnibus under way here in the European Parliament. Then the second point is, yes, artificial intelligence meant to respect international law and human rights. But. How do you how do you assess the challenges which are to be expected? The ones we are we have seen so far are huge. Certainly, certainly they. They have us on the move. But your. As an expert, how do you foresee. Is it is it going to go any further? What are we to expect as to its impact on fundamental rights and particularly the international law, fundamental rights. And the third point goes to us, to the Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence, the so-called Independent International Scientific Panel, and the Global Dialogue on Artificial Intelligence Governance. How do you envision that this mechanism will actually influence policy making decisions and law making decisions? Are they meant to be somewhat bigger than simple consultative forums? Are they going to get hold on the policy and law making process? Thank you.”
  Artificial Intelligence
• “Thank you. President, Commissioner McGrath and Rapporteur Moser. There is a clear demand from people and the Parliament has to respond. Eu has responds. Article 24 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights obliges us to protect children. But the legal base is also the same legal base that has enabled us to regulate the business model of big tech. We have addictive algorithms which are subjecting young people to terrible harm whatever parents do. Mental health problems, emotional problems, eating disorders, even self-harm. And it is therefore a duty to intervene in particular when it comes to dark patterns, the indiscriminate exposure to pornography, violence, recruitment to criminal gangs or we have sexual abuse online. And I think that the challenge is really age verification. The EU needs to impose order. We have these ideas of thresholds at 13 and 16, but it is only the EU that can really come up with a response to this challenge, ensuring that young people are not exposed to risks which are very much beyond what parents can do as part of parent responsibility, as a role for the European legislator. Thank you.”
  Safety features & content control for child protection online
• “Of course, I endorse the points that have been made by our person in charge. Ana Caterina Mendez but after having heard the discussion, I can't refrain myself from highlighting a point that has not been made is that we cannot allow ourselves again after a year of hard work, of a special committee, which is the case of democracy shield, of not making sure that the mandate to the Commission to deliver, to bring about new legislation and new initiatives are absolutely compelling. We cannot allow ourselves, because we have seen that much too often, particularly in the past, mandate in which we had nothing less than five special committees. I was a member of the Pegasus committee and just miserable enough. Just in the last plenary of the European Parliament in Strasbourg. We. Of course, we stressed that much of the lessons learned and much of the mandate regarding the Commission to act and bring about new initiatives are still to be fulfilled, are yet and done. So we cannot allow ourselves this time not to highlight in the final part, which is usually the last paragraph in conveying the messages to the rest of the institutions, in particular to the European Commission, that that mandate is absolutely compelling for the Commission to take initiative to do. It's part of the job after us having done ours. Thank you.”
  EU Supervision of the Rule of Law
• “Mr. President. Commissioner. The international rules based order and the rules which accompany it date back to the Second World War. That was based on the slogan never again, but never again. Surely can't suggest that tyranny is never anywhere in the world. Never again means that war isn't the response with all the enormous human, economic and material costs it brings with it. International law. International rights are the fountainhead of of European, the European Union, and of our foreign policy. Nobody here in the European Parliament can ignore or turn a blind eye to the brutality of the ayatollahs. At the same time, we support the brave resistance, the heroic young people in the country who have been resisting and dying at the same time. However, we shouldn't. Fail to take delight ourselves while criticizing those carrying out this illegal war. We have to ensure that protection be provided for people who are threatened. Particularly given that those leading this war have not got an exit ramp.”
  EU-Iran relations
• “No. We followed the lengthy explanation and presentation with interest, and at this stage, as we're running out of time, the only comment I would allow myself is that we, of course, are willing to keep an eye on the developments ahead because, yes, we have seen an election just recently. Last Sunday we have seen political change finally brought about in Hungary. We, of course, were aware about what's been going on for much too long, and particularly with the intensity of the latest campaign. But the thing is that Hungary has been put on hold under EU law and by EU institutions in every possible way. Article seven. Conditionality, regulation and nothing is to be deactivated just out of the blue and overnight. Of course, the. Those. Those preventions and cautions are already there, and they should be on their way until we see actual change. Being, being, being unfolded before our very eyes. That's it. That's the point I was willing to share.”
  Rule of law in Hungary
• “Mr. president, Commissioner Micallef. In the last parliament, We looked at protecting minors, the rights of minors in line with the Charter of Fundamental Rights. But now the time has come for action against cyber bullying harassment of young people online. The first thing we need to do is safeguard young peoples mental health and protect them on digital platforms, we need to look at the business model, implement the Digital Service Act, ensure that we enforce the provisions including protection of minors. We need digital literacy. We need to look at how young people can protect themselves. That must be taught on curricula around Europe. In addition, the European Union needs to finally come forward with age verification tools. We cannot leave this to parents or member states governments alone. They have various rules, and all we end up doing is supplying more data, more personal data to tech giants. We need to look at also protecting victims. We do not want to see further tragedies. We do not want to see cyber bullying wreak havoc on people's lives. Thank you.”
  Safety features & content control for child protection online
• “Well, Commissioner Sefcovic, the fact that Trump is back in the white House has really been a kick to the chessboard, the global chessboard. So I don't think we need to feel weak. We need to be united. A world based on rules, multilateralism. In international trade. There's one message which has not reached everyone. We need to tell Trump that the EU was not meant to screw the US. The European Union was not created to to to bother and annoy the United States. The idea of the European Union is endogenous. It has its own values and we need to be autonomous or strategic autonomy and also autonomy towards those unilateral measures. We can only introduce fair and proportional countermeasures, but affirming the autonomy of the European Union. Thank you.”
  EU-US relations
• “Thank you. President. Commissioner McGrath. The bad news is that the defense of democracy in the face of threats and enemies, both internal and external, since we have both, has become a very politically and ideologically divisive issue in this Parliament. But the good news is that in this European Parliament, there is still a majority which understands that the Commission proposals are reasonable. That's been my experience in my work in the Committee on the Democracy Shield. Clearly, there is a willingness to increase algorithm transparency and to ensure that we hold digital platforms to account where there are extremist and polarising speeches being spread, because we want to spread digital leadership and education, digital literacy, so that we can deal with the penetration of lies and myths and foreign interference. So we must strengthen the integrity not just of our media and of information, but also of electoral processes in the face of artificial intelligence. And we're also willing to debate the idea of a center for democratic resilience, as long as it is a tool for us to share intelligence in the face of experience of foreign interference in our electoral processes. So go ahead, Commissioner.”
  Disinformation & online freedoms
• “Thank you very much president. This debate on World Mental Health Day means we need to have more cooperation with the online platforms. The algorithms have a decisive effect on young people. We look at the suicide rate which is a leading cause of death amongst the young people and it's linked to the internet. So I think the message is very clear. The European Parliament needs to legislate to protect young people online. It's urgent. It is absolutely key to have common rules. Otherwise, we have fragmented and contradictory solutions from the national parliaments. And I think the third lesson to learn here is you can't talk about health without talking about mental health and you can't talk about mental health without looking at regulating the access of young people to these online platforms. And we also need to look at privacy and confidentiality of data and the dignity and development of a personality.”
  Safety features & content control for child protection online
• “Madam President. Commissioner McGrath. Yes, they are more frequent and disturbing these attacks against our European democratic model, which is becoming more vulnerable to external interference. It's not just state actors, it's also non-state actors, such as these digital platforms with social networks whose business model are addictive algorithms that destroy European values and create huge damage in new generations, which all of us who have sons and daughters know. They create hatred. So we don't just need digital literacy, we also need a European right. The Democracy Shield Committee that was set up in this European Parliament in the 18th of September, 2024, has just renewed its mandate for another year, and it will come up with conclusions. And it's important that the Commission turns these conclusions into new legislation not only to create a dissuasive impact on Russia, but also on platforms with strong fines, such as those that the commissioner, Teresa Ribera, has been brave enough to impose on Google.”
  Digital platforms liability for harmful and illegal content
• “Thank you, Madam President. Commissioner Kubilius, you used two images in your speech. First of all, Jean Monnet's quote that Europe will be born through crisis. But he didn't say it should happen. Spasmodically. But learning from past experiences, and I think that the Greenland case is a clear example. And now this is the first time that the EU has had to remind everyone that article 42.7 is a collective, uh, security clause. And we reminded everyone of this. And then you talked about waking up the giant. But it's not just about waking the giant up, but it has to go beyond its comfort zone. I think that if we continue with the US defense, then we'll be doing that We need a rapid intervention force. And then finally a vital idea civic education for defence. We need strong leadership, and we need to explain to our citizens what we're doing and why. Thank you.”
  EU competences on defence
• “Yes. Thank you. We appreciate the thorough examination of the constitutional breakdown that has been perpetrated for 16 years by fetus majority in Hungary. That I mean, that is something we were aware of. And actually, it's been the subject matter of many debates in the plenary in Strasbourg and the resolutions that we have written and adopted. And of course, even by specific missions that have been sent to Hungary a number of times precisely on the grounds that it all started with the comeback of. Viktor Orban to to power in 2010 and right after for 16 years. Yes, but it all started with an electoral reform which provided the securement of nothing less than two thirds to the winner of the elections in the single house parliament in Hungary. And ironically, and ultimately, that has been the defeat of Viktor Orban, providing for two thirds for his opponent, now led by Peter Magyar. But having said this, we're all aware about the constitutional breakdown, the capture of the media, public media, of the Academy of the streets by by by repressing demonstrations and opponents to to free this and Viktor Orban for so long, and of course, of the judiciary and the Constitutional Court. But the question goes, does it really make a difference when it comes to smear campaigns, when it comes to slandering, when it comes to abuse of social media and defamation through social media against opponents, does it really make a difference? Hungary? As to any other democratic society or situation or state in the European Union? Because, let's face it, all of the member states of the European Union are witnessing that kind of a rise emergence of smear campaigns, slandering and defamation through the social media between competitors, which is an erosion of the quality of democracy in all the member states of the social media. So, yes, we're all aware that Hungary makes a difference. But the question is, does it really make a difference when it comes to slandering and smear campaigns?”
  Rule of law in Hungary
• “Commissioner. Nothing threatens the EU as much as contradictions between the objectives and the results. For a long time, the EU has promised a single market without any obstacles. But now the non-tariff barriers are imposing many difficulties on fair competition and economic growth. And this instrument harmonizing insolvency proceedings. And for companies that have gone bankrupt and for recovery really is an second opportunity. It's crucial to promote growth, to fair competition and to reduce these huge number of tariff barriers. Which are seen as a barrier to growth and credibility and legitimacy of the EU and what it promises and what it actually delivers. Thank you.”
  EU Single Market harmonisation
• “(17:17:05 – 17:18:40): I'll just add a comment. I've I have a lot of experience in this field, and I know, about, consensus and the drawing up of institutional reports. And it's not the first time that I've seen the points that have been added because of the representative of the second largest group in this parliament have not been incorporated. 5 of the of the members who went, 3 were Spanish. So it doesn't surprise me that this mission was instrumentalized, and it's not the first to which has minimized certain aspects from the meetings with organizations and representatives of the government, for example. We had mention of sexual, reproductive rights, constitutional affairs, also right wing members dominated this mission. So I just want to highlight that this report does not represent microphone for the speaker, please. Thank”
  Sexuality and reproduction
• “Thank you. President. Commissioner. Artificial intelligence is such a high speed technological revolution that when. But if we look back to technology the way it was, everything else will become obsolete. Here. There was pioneering technology and we had the Brussels regulation in all areas, but we had to be respectful of the principles of basing based here on fundamental rights. We also had the preventative principle where there would be restricted use and prohibited use. That was something that we had under our charter, but it was under supervision. And there was also the need for the commission to be responsible. It was responsible for guaranteeing that the standards that we have would always be under democratic control.”
  Artificial Intelligence
• “Thank you, chair, and thank you, Madame. Uh, we had a talk yesterday in another committee, and surely you heard me saying that, uh, we are all aware that Cyprus happens to be one of the smallest, one of the least populated countries, and yet with an ambitious agenda, we can only wish you well and surely. I mean, as a matter of principle, whenever there is a rotating presidency of the European Union, it deserves the credit of the best expectation. But besides, we think you you really have a room for manoeuvre to to deliver your best. And we wish you to, to, to to to put all the energy into it with our cooperation for sure. This European Parliament, and insofar as we are compelled to be complementary with each other, not to repeat ourselves, not to make the same points I was, I was intending to make the point, of course, of the EU reform, considering that, yes, it's an ongoing argument, particularly in the plenary in Strasbourg, that the European Union has to do something about itself in order to, to, to, to respond. We cannot lean on unanimity much too longer when it leads to block meaning impotence or or silence when, when when our voice needs urgently to be heard. But I would simply dwell on two points that have not been made by my my colleague of the EPP and are interesting. Of course, we are also interested in right of inquiry. For sure. We have been working for it much too long.”
  EU political integration
• “I follow the presentation, which is, of course, consistent with the concerns that many of us keep raising about the overall landscape regarding the points you just made and the widespread disinformation and manipulation when it comes to the perception of migration as a fact all across Europe. But I would like you to maybe share with us a thought on the point that you have made yourself, elaborate a bit on the evidence that migration has turned out absolutely, the perception of migration has turned out to be absolutely decisive when it comes to election. And, of course, it's the number one, the paramount issue in which fake disinformation, manipulation, and outright lies are on the winning side. I mean, take whatever country. It's so easy. It's so easy to picture migrants as predators, as predators of social services, as enjoying benefits which are nonexistent compared, of course, to the allocations and allowances and social services which are provided for citizens of the European Union, in particular, for the nationals. And I would like you to elaborate. Once we have described this issue, is there any chance that a change could be brought about by some specific measure that could be made as regarding the perception of how migrants are to be integrated and not excluded, not demonized, or not stigmatized in the European landscape? Thank you.”
  EU policy on integration and ethnic, racial and religious discrimination
• “Thank you very much indeed. President. Vice president Fitto, you may well know that cohesion policy is one which is most cherished along with freedom of movement. And that is why we need reform. We certainly shouldn't do away with it. We should look at its focus on our regions as well as multilevel governments. And so we should start off by making sure that its resources are ring fenced in the NFF, because it is there, amongst other things, to deal with increasingly frequent natural disasters. But we also need to promote the social dimension of cohesion policy and regional policy, which is extremely sensitive, particularly for the most vulnerable regions and ultra peripheral outermost regions. So we need social cohesion and we need to have housing policy at scale across the European Union. And also, of course, we should guarantee a social policy which continues to be the main driving force for the legitimation of European integration. Thank you.”
  Cohesion and rural funding
• “Merci, madame. It'll be a minute. Take it as a fact that we. Yes. And members being part of this special committee, democracy shield, do share the importance of the lessons learned which are expressed in the conclusions. But I have an additional question to raise to you. And it is that it's only obvious that comparative evidence shows that when it comes to foreign information manipulation and interference, distrust, political polarization, and inequality are largely to make a bigger impact when there are pre-existing internal fragilities in democratic society. So the question is, are you willing to provide a holistic approach so that beyond the external threats, the external actors, we are also addressing institutional legitimacy and reduction of inequalities? The question is how the Commission intends to integrate into the Democracy Shield, a comprehensive approach to combine space security, social resilience, paying attention to reducing inequalities and enhancing democratic trust.”
  Foreign interference in Europe
• “Thank you very much, Commissioner. Under this item of the agenda of plenary, we are covering a number of major concerns for the European Parliament. Trafficking misinformation, fraudulent recruitment by Russia in African countries. We have information. Saying that thousands of young people have been deceived and sent to the front as cannon fodder. 42% of them have fallen in combat on combat on the Ukrainian front in less than four months. It's scandalous. We have shown commitment as the European Parliament in standing up against the aggression of Putin in financing Ukraine facility militarily by sending ammunition and weapons. And we should do it diplomatically as well to protect these young people from deceit. With all of our force of our delegations in Africa to stop the slaughter of. Young children who are being deceived and whose human rights are of major concern.”
  EU policy on African region
• “Thank you. This has been a threat right from the outset of this political mandate, and which carried over from the previous one. A media Freedom Act, artificial intelligence, DSA, etc.. And then we're trying to set the highest standards in the European Union when it comes to protecting personal data. But this becomes a threat if the European Union makes the mistake that they just sort of sit back and do nothing. Um, in the face of the tech giants, we have this exemplary fine of 3 billion imposed on Google for an unacceptable advertising monopoly. But that's a good step. But the commission's work will not be complete until in line with strategic autonomy and following the Draghi report, were able to create our own digital sovereignty so that we can build up our own digital industry and public social media networks, which better protect our citizens. Thank you.”
  EU digital & tech sovereignty
• “Thank you very much, president and Commissioner, this morning, reading the news about the flagrant incursion into Polish airspace by Russian drones, we heard president von der Leyen, in the debate on the state of the Union, set out a very clear stance on the European defence industry. We haven't had a more efficient engine for federal unity than defence. The learning is clear. This is the area in which we can be the strongest by uniting our forces. We need cohesion, solidarity and regional policy. What I mean in this debate is that, of course, we have to support our efforts against interference with our Galileo system. But in order to have a united force, we need common intelligence, which leads to common action, not just member states, the whole of the union with European added value. Thank you.”
  EU competences on defence
• “Thank you so much. It is a question. It is only obvious that the main point, particularly of the committee of leaders, just from a first involved in the negotiation of the Artificial intelligence regulation, dare I act by the EU, was precisely protecting fundamental rights, the so-called fundamental rights assessment, the so-called human center. So the question goes, is there any insufficient or particularly weak aspect concerning fundamental rights facing artificial intelligence and technological revolution that we somehow overlooked or underestimated? Any, any, any ideas on that matter? And regarding the importance of the transatlantic dialogue and relations with the United States, with the United States, insofar as artificial intelligence, is there any future development of which we can expect new risks or new threats to the European idea of democracy coming of this ongoing technological revolution? Thank you.”
  Artificial Intelligence
• “Thank you. I'm going to speak Spanish because I want to respond to what I just heard from. A. Colleague who expressed some very serious events in a Spanish area. Pacheco. Who said that? They were afraid that the citizens reacted to the. Aggression of somebody, an older citizen who was an immigrant. But they. There was action that was taken that actually triggered hate toward everyone. But they were waging war against a whole group of people. And by using the. Social media, this triggered off hate. I mean, this could actually call into question the strategy against racism. So I'd like to know if the commission. What the commission thinks would be the best tool to try to prevent the spreading of racism. Protecting victims, education or repression when this leads to hate and violence. Like what happened in Paris.”
  EU policy on integration and ethnic, racial and religious discrimination
• “Madam president, Vice President, this is a step in the right direction because our security is not dependent on 27 member states budgets or some percentage imposed. Whether it's 5% or something different. No, it's dependent on working together to build capacity. So we need to work together on European cyber security to protect our elections, to protect our legislative procedure, our healthcare sector. But even our financial system, which is very much exposed to a cyber attack. And we're seeing that citizens across the EU are keeping money in their homes just in case, but we need to produce some content. We keep saying that we need to have digital sovereignty, but that means that we need to all invest in research and development, which is what we're discussing. We need to have clear European strategies and legislation.”
  Scope of EU cybersecurity obligations
• “The Commission von der Leyen. The raison d'etre of the EU is solidarity and solidarity. It depends on the fact that in the MFF, sufficient funding for our affordable housing plan. It's the priority for the progressives because it's the priority for the EU in general. But solidarity also depends on effective implementation of member states when it comes to the asylum migration pact. The first solidarity plan needs to be implemented via this. This is using the Internal Security Fund and Asylum Fund. This will reduce migration pressure on the countries in the south of Europe Cyprus, Spain, Greece, Italy. Um, these are the countries that are facing a most pressure. And we also have in the Canaries route, we need to see a full implementation of the solidarity plan. This would be commitment of the commission with this, um, the binding regulation of the EU.”
  Asylum & border control
• “Thank you, Madam President. Commissioner. Thank you so much. Well, clearly there's a separation here between those who feel that housing is a social right. And whereas others believe that housing is subject to speculation and investment. So we need to focus on the rights, the rights of the individuals, the rights of those without a home, the rights to vulnerables vulnerable people in favour of short term rentals. But it's only the EU that can do one thing. You can make sure that there is no concentration of ha of, of, uh, housing in those vulture funds because that is the real problem. That is why it makes it so difficult for younger people to have access to housing And the same is true for workers. So you need to prevent vulture funds and investment funds to buy up housing. That is part of the solution, and that is what the EU can deal with people who have the right to a home. Thank you.”
  EU regulation of short-term rentals
• “Listening to this debate, we've got a recommendation here from the European Parliament for strengthening cooperation with Canada with a like minded partner for strengthening security in the Arctic. We provided such support to Greenland and its constitutional status. International rules, multilateralism. Wto rules not using tariffs as a kind of weapon in a in a war. So we're strengthening cooperation not only through trade, but through politics and through the preferences which we express. And that's what theta can mean, too. There's been a lot of fake news about people saying it's going to be the end of the world for certain sectors, but it's proving positive for consumers and for companies with mutual trust.”
  EU-US relations
• “President. Council. Commissioner. Now, I think there's actually more for us to do than is reflected in the conclusions of the council when it comes to defence and foreign policy. We seem to be reverting to Trump and it fails to take account of the genocidal The policies of Netanyahu and the need to suspend the Association Agreement. And also to boost our defence capacities and in doing so, commensurately increase our budget. Now we need to look at those countries that have faithfully complied with the pact, and then look at Putin and Lukashenko and look at the most deadly route for illicit trafficking is via the Canaries. Now, of course, we need a space of justice and peace and security. And so really, the council at long last, should be implementing directives and the European law against the sexual abuse of minors. And finally comply with the European Union's mandate and make sure that we at long last, accede to European Convention on Human Rights.”
  Defence spending
• “We are focusing clearly on data transfer to the US. That's why we have a data transfer agreement and a safe harbor. And there have been no derogations for this under executive order by Trump or by Biden. But yet there is a great resistance in the US to accept our digital rules, our DMA, our DSA and our AI act. And that's why we're having this debate. This debate is all about enforcement. Enforcement isn't the same as implementation. Now it is up to the commission to act as the guardian of the treaties. And that's what we're hoping for. That's what we're awaiting. There must be no lowering of our standards and our criteria in the face of anyone, whether they be the North American tech giants or anyone else. It's about applying the rules that we decided on and that we voted on here in this House, including the DMA, the Digital Markets Act.”
  EU-US data transfers
• “Mr President, I would like to raise not only the opportunity but also the content of this report by Ms Jalloul Muro regarding the relationship between the European Union and Saudi Arabia, which has proved to be a relevant regional actor. The European Union should actually fulfil its commitment to become a globally relevant actor – if Saudi Arabia is a relevant partner for the US, for Israel, for the Islamic Conference, for the Arab world, how could it not be relevant for the European Union? But I would especially like to praise the strong message of the European Union's diplomatic commitment to human rights, empowering equal rights between men and women and, of course, fighting the death penalty – that is the number one priority for the European Union. But in order to enhance that message to a relevant actor, as Saudi Arabia certainly is, it takes enhancing the bilateral relationship between Saudi Arabia and the European Union. So I can only thank Ms Jalloul Muro's report on this relation between the European Union and Saudi Arabia.. **Nicolae ȘTEFĂNUȚĂ @Chair: We have Kelleher.”
  EU relations with the Southern Neighbourhood
• “Commissioner. When the current MFF was approved, we hadn't overcome Covid or dealt with the Ukrainian war or energy prices going up or migration flows that we've seen in Lampedusa and the Canary Islands. So the choice is very clear. The next MFF, if it wants to deal with all of those new priorities with, in addition to climate issues which need emergency refunds and solidarity funds, then it's essential that the MFF can be expanded, including own resources and common European debt. And that all needs to happen. Making sure that classic policies are at the heart of all of this cohesion policy. Solidarity within the EU. In addition, the EPP calls for a more decision making powers, and that can happen with the the clause in article 502, not just the Council. The EPP demands resources and we need to be fully involved in decision making for the next MFF.”
  Size of EU budget
• “Thank you so much, Mr. Gill, for presenting the case of this global compact, which is much of our interest. Sure. You know that the European Union has meant to be pioneer when regulating artificial intelligence, making the difference, but also leading by example, setting a standard. But the thing is that we are seeing a revolution which is unfolding day by day with vertigo, speed, track open ended and the the the challenges are far from being actually foretold. But the thing is that of course we, we, we do care about setting standards, particularly when it comes to its impact on rights and securing digital future, which is equitable in its axis and homogeneous when it comes to some, some some standards that make them compatible with fundamental rights. And these are the questions I would like to raise to you first. We have seen negotiations on the digital compact, the global digital compact. But the thing is that throughout the years, just in the past three years, the world is becoming increasingly polarized. And polarization is also expressed in the digital world and of course, in the artificial intelligence tools. And I would like you to assess how do you foresee that the implications of this increasingly polarized international landscape are going to make an impact on the goal of reaching out for common rules to artificial intelligence and to the sustainability of the European artificial Visual intelligence and standards, which are challenged by, by, by economic actors and trying to bring them down.”
  Artificial Intelligence
• “And I would, I would, uh, share with you just some hints of the, uh, Amendments that have introduced to the piece of legislation in my draft report first introduced additional safeguards to ensure the respect for private life, which is certainly a fundamental right enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights in the treaties, and particularly to enhance the protection of personal data, as well as the principle of non-discrimination and freedom of movement, which is a fundamental right in itself, as we all know, and that I have made by introducing amendments to article eight, particularly by introducing a new article a a paragraph. Second, I have tabled amendments to ensure that the application could only be used by travel travellers out of age over the age of 18, while granting the European Commission the power to amend that minimum age via a delegated act. Why? Because a new digital travel application is feasible when you are out of age. When you're when you're a grown up person. When you are an adult. Not that easy when you're talking about a small kid, because it's not only the, the, the the knowledge of the of the of the application in itself. It's also that it's supposed to match the picture, the image that is taken digitally in your digital application, as to the picture that you have in your, in your in your identity card or in your passport, which is not that certain when you are a little kid.”
  Electronic identity
• “The European A digital agenda. The Sadma and I. These were all rules adopted by the European Parliament. It was done so to. We're not trying to subjugate, uh, European platforms to. We want to, um, also see the Brussels effect and achieve a European sovereignty. But we wanted to protect the fundamental rights which are included of in the European Charter of Human Rights. This is a model of democracy that in no way can be subjugated to any business model of any big tech platform. So, Commissioner, please do not make any concessions to the pressure. Please remain strong, stand tall and do not give any concessions to President Trump. We're talking about defending the model of democracy. We will make no concessions in relation to, um, under the pretext of simplification or flexibility. We do not want to see a degradation of the standards that have been voted on by this Parliament. Thank you.”
  EU digital & tech sovereignty
• “Of course, we appreciate the representative. Of the commission by presenting the case of the strategy of civil society. But surely you know that there has been a rising concern all across this European Parliament about the situation, as it is very worrisome because, for one thing, a multiannual financial framework is threatening for for many of the distinctive lines of action that have made the European Union the one that we have known so far, including support for civil society. So my question would go, are you as European Commission making sure that it will have its allocations. The programs to support civil society. Civil space to feed back from the concern that has been expressed not only by this European Parliament, but also the Committee of the regions and the Committee of Economic and Social Affairs, which are the consultative bodies, and particularly to sustain the enhancement of civil society organisations, particularly when it comes to to when it comes to public participation in, in, in, in the regional policy of the European, including those regions which are disadvantaged because of the distance of fragmentation of the territories, as is the case of the outermost regions. That was my question to you. Thank you.”
  EU engagement with civil society