S&D Times – Weekly Update. This week's highlights and what's coming up

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Message from S&D Group Leader Iratxe García on Russia’s latest attack on Ukraine:

“The slaughter of 34 civilians in Sumy is a vile atrocity. Vladimir Putin does not understand dialogue, only strength. We must boost military and financial support to Ukraine for a just peace. And he must pay for every crime. Full support to Ukraine!” 

Up next:

Next week, members in the committee on security and defence will vote on the report for the European Defence Industry Programme (EDIP). Under the leadership of our co-rapporteur, S&D MEP Raphaël Glucksmann, we're working to ensure that the EDIP lays the foundation for deeper integration of the European defence industry and serves as a cornerstone of a common European defence.

The EDIP will boost the EU’s preparedness to deter any threat to our security and enable European industries to meet the needs of our armed forces autonomously and independently. That’s why EU funds are reserved for European companies.

Share the news!

One of our core beliefs is that we must offer the young generation a platform and a voice. To this end, every year, we open two calls for traineeships – to get young Europeans more involved in politics and policymaking.

The time to apply is now! So, share the word if you:

  • are aged at least 18 and maximum 35 on the traineeship start date;
  • are a national of a member state of the European Union unless the provisions of Article 26 apply;
  • share the values of the Group and have a university degree (at least a BA or equivalent degree);
  • have a thorough knowledge of English or French (good knowledge of another of the official languages of the European Union is desirable)

If this is you, then register now!

Upcoming events:

Save the date – Europe Days 2025 is back!

When/where?

In the European Parliament in Strasbourg on Sunday, 4 May

In the European Parliament in Brussels on Saturday, 10 May

Our favourite time of the year is almost here! Europe Days are a great opportunity for us to engage with citizens living in or visiting Brussels and Strasbourg, to show them how our priorities and our daily work aim at improving their lives.

At the same time, it is an occasion to get together and celebrate the importance of the EU through a series of activities, information campaigns and entertainment, all organised in harmonious and structured events in the two cities. Interactive activities, quizzes, games and music are always on the agenda.

Don’t miss out! The theme for this year's events is 75 years of the Schuman declaration.

Happy Easter to all those celebrating this weekend!
The European Parliament will be closed for the holidays, but our team is always reachable.
Disconnect, enjoy, celebrate with your loved ones! The S&D Times will be back on Friday 25 April!

And as always don’t forget to stay updated on all our initiatives and reactions on FacebookBluesky, X, Instagram, TelegramSpotifyApple Podcasts and TikTok!

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