Roberta Metsola Re-elected as President of the European Parliament
Maltese conservative Roberta Metsola, 45, has been re-elected as the President of the European Parliament, securing an overwhelming majority of 562 votes. Metsola, a member of the European People's Party (EPP), will serve another two and a half years, defeating her only opponent, Spaniard Irene Montero of the radical left, who garnered just 61 votes.
A Strong Advocate for the European Project
In her acceptance speech, Metsola emphasized the need for a strong Parliament within a strong Union, urging for the enhancement of the EU's social pillar and institutional powers. She called for renewed enthusiasm and belief in the European project, advocating for a safer and more egalitarian shared space. Metsola also highlighted the significance of Strasbourg as a symbol of reconciliation within Europe.
Support for Ukraine and Legislative Achievements
During her previous term, Metsola was notable for her active support for Ukraine. She was the first EU official to visit Kyiv in April 2022, shortly after the Russian offensive began. Under her leadership, the European Parliament passed significant environmental legislation as part of the Green Deal, new regulations on digital giants, and the EU Migration Pact.
Addressing Controversies and Future Priorities
Metsola's tenure was also marked by the Qatargate scandal, which involved suspicions of corruption among elected officials linked to Qatar and Morocco. In response, she pledged major reforms to restore the institution's credibility, though some criticized the measures as insufficient. Despite her opposition to abortion, Metsola has committed to defending women's rights and combating violence against women, aligning with the European Parliament's official positions.
