Belgium, (Brussels Morning) This week, the European Parliament’s agenda will feature debates on the conflict in Ukraine, with particular attention given to women’s rights. MEPs will discuss foreign subsidies to firms, a new proposal to extend the COVID-19 certificate, and the Parliament’s right of initiative. The Conference of Presidents will receive NATO’s Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg and the final plenary of the Conference on the Future of Europe will be held.
Ukraine
On Monday, the Women’s Rights Committee will adopt a resolution and an oral question on the impact of Russian aggression on women. MEPs will look into the many unofficial reports that refugees are at increased risk of trafficking and sexual exploitation and that women are at risk of becoming victims of rape as a weapon of war.
Foreign subsidies to firms
The International Trade Committee votes, on Monday, on new rules to allow the Commission to investigate if companies receive subsidies – for example capital injections or tax exemptions – from non-EU countries, and take countermeasures when necessary. The goal is to ensure fair competition by extending state aid rules beyond the EU.
EU Digital COVID-19 Certificate
On Thursday, a proposal to extend the validity of the EU Digital COVID Certificate for another year, before it expires on 30 June, will be voted on by the Civil Liberties Committee.
Parliament’s right of initiative
The Constitutional Affairs Committee will vote, on Thursday, on proposals that would consolidate Parliament’s right to propose EU laws and start EU legislative procedures. The text addresses issues related to Parliament’s existing right of initiative in several areas and seeks to establish a general direct right of initiative for the only EU institution that is directly elected.
Conference of Presidents and NATO
On Thursday, Parliament’s President and political groups’ leaders — Conference of Presidents — will hold a debate with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg.
Final Plenary of the Conference on the Future of Europe
Almost one year after the launch of the Conference on the Future of Europe, Friday and Saturday, its Plenary will meet to conclude its work. It is expected to reach a consensus on the final set of proposals prepared by the nine Working Groups, which will then be delivered to the Executive Board in anticipation of the Conference’s final report.