What are intergroups and how are they formed? 

Intergroups are unofficial groupings of MEPs who are interested in a particular topic that does not necessarily fall within the scope of the European Parliament's normal work but may be of interest to wider society. Intergroups hold informal discussions and promote exchanges between MEPs and civil society.

As intergroups are not official bodies of Parliament, they cannot express views on behalf of the Parliament. They may not engage in any activities that could be mistaken for Parliament's official activities.

Parliament's Bureau has laid down conditions for establishing intergroups, which are formed at the start of each parliamentary term (e.g. an application to form an intergroup must be signed by at least three political groups, and a yearly declaration of financial interests is required). Political groups may provide intergroups with logistical support if they meet these conditions.

Chairs of intergroups must declare any support they receive in cash or kind. These declarations must be updated every year and made publicly available.