Message from S&D Group Leader Iratxe García on the situation in Gaza:
“With over 53,000 lives lost, 14,000 babies at risk of death, and Netanyahu’s government blocking access to food and medicine and threatening to destroy and drop an atomic bomb on Gaza, it should come as no surprise that the world begins to call what is happening in Gaza a genocide. How can it be that the president of the European Commission has never condemned these crimes and remains silent in the face of the ongoing extermination and ethnic cleansing in Gaza. Everything we do is not in defence of Palestinians; it’s also in defence of the people of Israel. Because the people of Israel are not Netanyahu.”
Up next:
S&D mission to Italy
S&D MEPs will travel to Italy next week for a fact-finding mission to assess the latest developments concerning the Paragon spyware scandal. Reports indicate that 90 individuals – including journalists and civil society activists – have been targeted with spyware developed by Paragon Solutions. Seven victims have been identified, the majority of whom are Italian nationals. During the mission, the MEPs will hold several high-level meetings in Rome with victims, NGOs, and political representatives. This initiative reaffirms the S&D Group’s commitment to safeguarding and strengthening media freedom across Europe.
Oceans Pact
On 4 June, the European Commission is expected to present its proposal for an EU Ocean Pact. The day before, we will hold a press briefing with our vice-president, Christophe Clergeau, to outline S&D priorities. As the world’s largest maritime power – with 40% of its population living in coastal areas – the EU must act. The Pact should prioritise the ocean’s vital role in ensuring a healthy planet, a stronger and more sovereign Europe, and the well-being of our coastal communities and fishers. We will push for an ambitious, binding commitment that puts the ocean at the heart of Europe’s environmental and strategic agenda.
Silver Rose Awards – get your nominations in!
There is one month left to get your nominationsin for the Silver Rose Awards! As we strive to tackle the climate, environmental and social crises collectively, it is crucial that we acknowledge the people, communities and movements fighting to keep these issues front and centre in the face of today's political challenges. That's why this year's Silver Rose Awards will focus on highlighting these initiatives. The Just Transition Award aims to celebrate initiatives pushing to keep just transitions on the political agenda.
If you know of a civil society organisation, activist or trade union whose hard work and dedication should be acknowledged, nominate them now!
And as always don’t forget to stay updated on all our initiatives and reactions on Facebook, Bluesky, X, Instagram, Telegram, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and TikTok!
