Strengthening the fight against child sexual abuse across Europe

Next Wednesday, the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE) will vote on the revision of the EU Directive on combating the sexual abuse and sexual exploitation of children. The ECR Group supports stronger protection for children, effective prevention and better assistance for victims. The proposed revision seeks to update EU rules as new forms of abuse have appeared in recent years, inclusive AI-generated sexual abuse material. It also strengthens penalties and, with longer limitation periods for offences, gives victims more time to seek justice. The report also calls for longer limitation periods for offences and stronger safeguards in the recruitment of staff and volunteers working with organisations that protect children. For the ECR Group, tackling child sexual abuse requires clear rules, effective enforcement and a firm focus on the protection of victims, while respecting the criminal justice systems of Member States.

When: Wednesday @ 16:45

Where: ANTALL 2Q2

Reinforcing Europe’s external border management

Next week, the European Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, Magnus Brunner, will present the revision of the European Border and Coast Guard Regulation, which governs the role and operations of Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency. The ECR Group believes that protecting Europe’s external borders must remain a priority and that Frontex must have the capacity, resources and operational tools needed to support Member States in managing migration effectively. A stronger European border agency should contribute to tackling illegal migration, combating cross-border crime and supporting the effective return of those who have no right to stay in the EU. This should also include enabling Frontex to provide operational support to third countries in carrying out returns, strengthening cooperation beyond the EU’s borders. The revision should also reinforce Frontex’s ability to respond swiftly and effectively to migration crises, drawing lessons from situations such as Ceuta, where sudden and large-scale movements of people have highlighted the need for stronger preparedness, coordination and rapid operational support. Any revision must focus on practical results, clear responsibilities and effective cooperation with national authorities, ensuring that Member States retain the necessary control over their borders while strengthening the EU’s ability to respond to shared challenges.

When: Wednesday @ 14:30

Where: ANTALL 2Q2

Simplifying organic farming rules while protecting EU producers

On Wednesday, the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development will vote on the provisional agreement to amend the EU Organic Regulation, covering production, labelling, certification and trade with third countries. The ECR Group supports the agreement, which aims to provide greater legal certainty, simplify requirements for farmers and businesses, and protect the credibility of the EU organic logo. The agreement ensures clearer labelling for consumers and fairer competition for European producers, while extending the recognition of 11 equivalent third countries until 2036 to prevent disruptions to organic trade and supply chains. For the ECR Group, organic farming rules must remain credible and transparent while reflecting the practical realities faced by farmers and businesses

When: Wednesday @ 15:00

Where: SPAAK 3C050

Making it easier for the next generation to enter farming

On Wednesday, the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development will vote on an own-initiative report on generational renewal in agriculture, addressing the challenges facing young people seeking to enter the farming sector and the future of European agriculture. The ECR Group believes that attracting the next generation of farmers is essential to safeguarding Europe’s food security, maintaining vibrant rural communities and ensuring the long-term viability of the agricultural sector. Young farmers must have better access to land, finance and the tools needed to establish and develop their businesses. This requires practical support, targeted incentives and a Common Agricultural Policy that provides stability and predictability, rather than additional administrative burdens. Generational renewal must be built on making farming a viable and attractive profession, allowing farmers to run competitive businesses and pass them on to the next generation.

When: Wednesday @ 15:00

Where: SPAAK 3C050