Are energy drinks harming minors? ENVI opens public hearing; Drones and New Systems of Warfare – vote on ECR-led initiative report in the Subcommittee on Security and Defence (SEDE); Cutting through Bureaucracy - Argentina’s ‘chainsaw’ policy; Targeted Violence against Christians in South Asia; Beyond the Obstacle: Stories of talent; Facing the Academic Front against Israel

Drones and New Systems of Warfare – vote on ECR-led initiative report in the Subcommittee on Security and Defence (SEDE)

On Wednesday, the European Parliament’s Subcommittee on Security and Defence (SEDE) will vote on the own-initiative report “Drones and New Systems of Warfare – the EU’s need to adapt to be fit for today’s security challenges”, drafted by ECR Rapporteur Reinis Pozņaks. The text addresses one of today’s most pressing security threats: the rapid evolution of drones and autonomous systems that now shape modern combat, surveillance, logistics and deterrence. From an ECR perspective, Europe must urgently adapt its defence structures, industrial base and civil preparedness to counter drone-enabled threats. The report calls for building a resilient European drone industry, integrating drone and counter-drone systems across all defence levels, and institutionalising EU–NATO coordination on standards and operations. Strengthening preparedness of societies and critical infrastructure is also highlighted as essential to European security.

Vote: Wednesday @ 09:00

Where: ANTALL 4Q1

Are energy drinks harming minors? ENVI opens public hearing

On Wednesday morning, the European Parliament’s Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI) will hold a public hearing on the food-safety risks linked to energy-drink consumption among minors. Experts will present scientific findings on health impacts, patterns of use and potential regulatory gaps, followed by a Q&A session with Members. The hearing is expected to contribute to Parliament’s wider work on youth health, consumer protection and the responsibilities of producers and retailers.

Hearing: Wednesday @ 09:00–11:30

Where: ANTALL 4Q2

Cutting through Bureaucracy - Argentina’s ‘chainsaw’ policy

On Wednesday, the ECR EUROLAT Policy Group will welcome Federico Sturzenegger, Minister of Deregulation and State Transformation of Argentina, to the European Parliament. Federico Sturzenegger is a prominent Argentine economist and academic. ECR MEPs and Minister Sturzenegger will discuss the agenda of the Milei Government, relations between the ECR Group and centre-right Latin American governments, the political situation in Latin America and the role of the EU.

When: Wednesday @ 12:30

Targeted Violence against Christians in South Asia

On Thursday, ECR MEP Bert-Jan Ruissen will host a discussion on the rise of violence against Christian communities in South Asia. Across India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, Christians face increasing attacks, intimidation, legal restrictions and harassment, including mob violence, false blasphemy accusations, forced conversions, and obstruction of worship, creating fear and deepening marginalisation throughout the region. MEP Bert-Jan Ruissen has invited Shagufta Kausar – acquitted from death penalty on false blasphemy charges in Pakistan – to shed light on the situation for Christians in South Asia.

When: Thursday @ 11:15–13:30

Where: ANTALL 6Q1

Beyond the Obstacle: Stories of talent

On the occasion of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, ECR MEPs Chiara Gemma and Lara Magoni will host the second edition of the event “Beyond the Obstacle.” The initiative aims to highlight inclusion, accessibility, and the talents of persons with disabilities, showcasing the exceptional creativity, determination, and expertise that often emerge in response to the challenges they face. The event will feature personal testimonies from athletes and courageous women who embody resilience and excellence, both personally and professionally.

When: Wednesday @ 10:00–12:30

Where: SPAAK 7C50

Facing the Academic Front against Israel

On Wednesday, ECR MEP Bert-Jan Ruissen will co-host a conference with EPP MEP Henrik Dahl on the growing rise of anti-Semitism in universities. Across Europe, universities are cutting ties with Israeli partners, Jewish scholars are facing threats, and students are occupying campuses in protest against Israel. The conference will explore a central question: what is needed to effectively counter this increasing pattern of anti-Semitism in academic institutions? Link to the event website here.

When: Wednesday @ 12:00–13:30

Where: SPINELLI 1E2

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