Quote of the week by S&D vice president, Claude Moraes

"While women and children drown in the Mediterranean, we urgently need a more predictable and sustainable approach to search and rescue. This is first and foremost the responsibility of states and should not have to be outsourced to humanitarian actors who have stepped in over the last years. The EU has to act responsibly and fulfil its humanitarian obligations in the Mediterranean."

Upcoming events

During the past two weeks, we have put under scrutiny the designated members of the next European Commission. The process of hearings must continue, with three proposals having been rejected by the Parliament.

We are now waiting for the new names in order to begin the process of re-evaluating the candidates.

Next week will be crucial, as EU leaders are also meeting on the 17 - 18 October. The main topics on the EU Council agenda will include Brexit, current developments between Turkey and Syria, the enlargement process, climate change and the next Multiannual Financial Framework.

In the run-up to the summit, our president, Iratxe García Pérez, will be attending the PES leaders’ summit, on Thursday.

The General Affairs Council will also meet on Tuesday. Ministers will focus on enlargement, ahead of the European summit. Our Group is calling on member states to finally open accession negotiations with North Macedonia and Albania.

Parliamentary work will continue, with a committee vote on Monday, regarding the General Budget of the EU for next year.

Follow us throughout the week for all the updates!

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