European Parliament plenary in Strasbourg

Strasbourg hosted the inaugural plenary session of the newly elected and re-elected members of the European Parliament, marking a significant moment in the legislative calendar. Roberta Metsola was re-elected as President, reaffirming her leadership role. However, the spotlight is also on Ursula von der Leyen, who is seeking re-election as President of the European Commission, a move that could shape the future of EU governance. This plenary session is pivotal as it sets the tone for the new mandate, with discussions expected to revolve around critical policies and legislative priorities. The session serves as a platform for members to outline their agendas and highlight the issues they intend to address in the coming years. The outcomes of these discussions will provide insights into the EU's strategic direction and the challenges it aims to tackle. Politics editor Aurélie Pugnet emphasized the importance of this gathering, noting that it reflects the political landscape and the priorities of the newly constituted Parliament. The session is anticipated to reveal the key files and policies that will dominate the legislative agenda, influencing both domestic and international affairs. As the European Parliament embarks on this new chapter, the decisions made during this plenary will have lasting implications for the EU's legislative framework and its response to pressing global issues. The focus now shifts to how these leaders will navigate the complexities of governance in the months ahead.