COLLOQUIUM WITH THE CIVIL SOCIETY FORUM

On 29 October MEP Javier Zarzalejos took part in a conference with the Civil Society Forum on the new legislature of the European Union.

In his speech, Zarzalejos stressed that the EU “is in a period in which it has to refound itself in some way by returning to its initial purposes”. This period of renewal points to the need to respond clearly to current challenges and to return to its founding values in a context of transformation.

The composition of the European Parliament has changed significantly, with a notable shift in the balance of majorities that opens the way for new alliances.

“The elections have led to a much more open game of majorities in which the European People’s Party, with its pivotal weight, has a quarter of the influence on parliamentary measures”, he said, noting that this role allows for a greater ability to build coalitions, moving away from the previous dominance of centre-left forces. This creates an opportunity for greater flexibility in decision-making and for taking corrective action on key issues.

Four priorities loom large on the legislative agenda. First, the conflict in Ukraine requires a united stance and a strategic response of support and defence. Second, immigration and asylum emerge as critical challenges demanding cohesion policies. Economic competitiveness is the third axis of action, to strengthen the Union’s role in an increasingly competitive global context. Finally, security represents the fourth priority, consolidating the commitment to internal stability and defence against external threats.