The 9th legislature of the European Parliament has recently concluded, with a focus on the legislation that has impacted the lives of 450 million Europeans over the past five years. The last plenary session before the upcoming European elections featured a marathon of votes, with 89 legislative texts and seven resolutions passed in just four days. President Roberta Metsola highlighted the accomplishments of the mandate, emphasizing efforts to make the European Parliament more efficient, effective, open, and independent. However, the session was also overshadowed by allegations of foreign interference, including scandals such as “Qatargate,” “Russiagate,” and “Chinagate,” the latter involving accusations of spying for China by an aide to a far-right German MEP.
In addition to recapping the recent scandals and legislative achievements, the focus was also placed on an upcoming event: the 20th anniversary of the EU’s largest enlargement, which took place on May 1st. This enlargement, known as the “big bang,” saw the EU expand from 15 to 25 member states. Former Hungarian European Commissioner Lászlo Andor, now Secretary General of the Foundation for European Progressive Studies, discussed the positive impact of this enlargement on the countries that joined the EU. He highlighted the stability and prosperity that many of these countries experienced, along with dynamic economic growth that could lead to sustainable convergence with Western European nations in the long term.
The celebration of the 20th anniversary of the EU’s largest enlargement serves as a reminder of the positive impacts of EU membership on the countries that joined in 2004. The experience of stability, prosperity, and economic growth has been beneficial for many of these nations, ultimately leading to a more prosperous and unified Europe. Despite the challenges and controversies that have emerged during the 9th legislature of the European Parliament, the focus on achievements such as the enlargement anniversary highlights the ongoing commitment to promoting unity, cooperation, and progress within the EU.
As the European Parliament moves forward, it will continue to address a wide range of issues that impact the lives of millions of Europeans. From legislation to foreign interference scandals, the Parliament plays a crucial role in shaping the future of the European Union and its member states. By reflecting on past achievements and challenges, such as the recent scandals and the 20th anniversary of the EU’s largest enlargement, the Parliament can learn from its experiences and work towards a more efficient, effective, and transparent future for the EU and its citizens.
The 9th legislature of the European Parliament has concluded with a focus on the legislative achievements and scandals that have marked the past five years. The last plenary session featured a high number of votes and resolutions, highlighting the impact of the European Parliament on the lives of 450 million Europeans. Despite allegations of foreign interference, including scandals such as “Qatargate,” “Russiagate,” and “Chinagate,” the Parliament has worked towards making itself more efficient, effective, and open to engage with people across all member states. The upcoming celebration of the 20th anniversary of the EU’s largest enlargement serves as a reminder of the positive impact of EU membership on stability, prosperity, and economic growth in member states that joined in 2004. Former Hungarian European Commissioner Lászlo Andor highlighted the benefits of EU membership for these countries, paving the way for sustainable convergence with Western European nations in the long term. Through reflecting on past achievements and challenges, the European Parliament continues to work towards a more prosperous and unified future for the EU and its citizens.
