European Parliament plenary session 13-16 December 2010

One million signatures: enough to request an EU law

The European Commission will in future have to consider drafting a new EU law if so requested by at least one million EU citizens, once Parliament approves the ground rules for the "citizens' initiative" in Strasbourg next week.

Parliament to vote on EU budget for 2011

The European Parliament is set to vote on the 2011 EU budget at its plenary session in Strasbourg on Wednesday, following a debate the previous day. This was decided by Parliament's Conference of Presidents - the political group leaders and the President of the EP - on Thursday.

Tougher rules to combat human trafficking

Criminals trafficking in human beings will face tougher penalties, while their victims should get better protection and assistance, under a new EU law that comes before Parliament in Strasbourg.

EU-wide protection for victims of crime

Victims of crime who are granted protection by law in one EU Member State may be able to get similar protection if they move to another EU country, under the new European Protection Order on which Parliament votes in Strasbourg next week.

EU residence rights for refugees

Refugees and other people protected under international law could acquire long-term resident status in Europe under a change to EU legislation that comes before Parliament for a vote on Wednesday. The new rules will not apply to the UK, Ireland and Denmark.

Immigration: a single permit to live and work in the EU

 A draft "single permit" law, making it easier for legal immigrants to the EU to obtain residence and work permits as well as giving them equal rights with nationals on pay, working conditions and social security, will be put to the vote on Tuesday.

Bailout mechanism on Strasbourg agenda

MEPs will discuss the upcoming EU summit of 16-17 December with the Council Presidency and Commission. Economic policy is the main topic, in particular a permanent crisis mechanism to safeguard the eurozone, with a treaty change to set it up. The EU's relations with its strategic partners are also on the summit agenda.

Guillermo Fariñas: 2010 Sakharov Prize winner

Cuban political dissident Guillermo Fariñas is the winner of this year's European Parliament Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought. The award ceremony is set for Wednesday 15 December at 1pm. Mr Fariñas is currently waiting for an exit permit from the Cuban authorities.

MEPs to debate Wikileaks with Barroso

The cables released by Wikileaks and the whole issue of cyber security will be discussed during Question Hour on Tuesday with Commission President Barroso. The revelations on CIA flights and extraordinary renditions contained in the leaked documents are expected to be of particular interest to MEPs.

Annual report on human rights in the world 2009

MEPs will debate Parliament's annual report on human rights in the world on Wednesday morning with EU foreign policy high representative Catherine Ashton.

Fundamental rights within the EU

The rights of EU citizens are still abused too frequently, says this year's report on fundamental rights in the European Union. MEPs call for "urgent concrete steps, mid-term strategies and long-term solutions, as well as follow up by EU institutions".

Afghanistan: radical rethink of EU strategy

The EU's strategy on Afghanistan needs a radical rethink, according to a draft resolution to be debated by Parliament in Strasbourg.