European Union stands united in many fields

What are the most important issues on the agenda of the European Parliament (EP) in 2017? In the spring the EP’s committee will vote on the report on tax avoidance. MEPs will be dealing with the problem of geo-blocking and the online distribution of copyright-protected content. The objective of the single digital market strategy is to support innovation and cut red tape for startup companies, at the same time ensuring the protection of consumers.

MEPs share the view that a revision of the EU’s social pillar has become necessary, so that it can meet the challenges of today and cover the new jobs created by the digital revolution. Portuguese MEP João Rodrigues told: they had regulated the labour market in a way that productivity increased. All EU citizens can count on the welfare system to give them education, healthcare services and a high level of social security. Thirdly, the system of redistribution works through taxes. In 2017 MEPs will also hold a debate on the Clean Energy for All Europeans package of measures proposed by the European Commission (EC).

In addition to this, the reform of the EU Emission Trading System (ETS) will also be on the agenda. The aim of the ETS is to combat climate change and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It is likely that in 2017 the EP will vote on the reform of the Dublin Regulation. MEPs are busy creating standard criteria and procedures for determining refugee status. In the first half 2017 MEPs will vote at the EP’s plenary session on the new anti-terrorism directive, proposed by the EC after the Paris attacks in November 2015.