The European Parliament has closed its 9th term, with lawmakers preparing for elections in June to choose the 720 members of the next legislature. The term was filled with challenges, crises, and achievements. Ursula von der Leyen’s controversial confirmation as the president of the European Commission marked the start of the term. The Parliament reacted furiously to the dismantling of the Spitzenkandidaten system. Brexit was another significant moment, testing the limits of diplomatic goodwill and leading to emotional scenes in the Parliament as the UK officially left the EU.
One of the more scandalous moments of the term involved Hungarian MEP József Szájer, who was found at a sex party in Brussels, attempting to escape through a drainpipe. The COVID-19 pandemic brought about confrontations with pharmaceutical companies, particularly AstraZeneca, over vaccine deliveries. The death of Parliament President David Sassoli was a somber moment, with his passing deeply felt across the political spectrum. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made an impassioned plea for EU membership during a session of the Parliament, amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.
The term was also marked by a major scandal known as ‘Qatargate,’ involving allegations of cash-for-favours schemes with Qatar and Morocco. Several MEPs, including Vice President Eva Kaili, were accused of corruption. The European Parliament also faced challenges related to nature restoration legislation and legislation on artificial intelligence and migration. Yulia Navalnaya’s emotional plea for the EU to take a more innovative approach in confronting Russian President Putin was met with a standing ovation. The Parliament also filed a lawsuit against the European Commission over funds released to Hungary despite rule-of-law concerns.
Numerous other notable events occurred during the term, including hearings of Frontex chief Fabrice Leggeri and Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen, as well as the ban on Amazon lobbyists and the passing of the Media Freedom Act. Chaotic moments included a feisty vote on the Emissions Trading System, a dog barking in the hemicycle, and a Slovak MEP releasing a dove. Despite the challenges and scandals, the European Parliament worked through a tumultuous term, making progress on key legislative issues and navigating global crises. The upcoming elections will offer voters the opportunity to choose the next members of the Parliament, as lawmakers reflect on the highs and lows of the 9th term.
