The European Parliament is testing a new method to make debates more dynamic during this plenary session.
During two major debates on Tuesday and Wednesday, the order of speakers is not being disclosed in advance to prevent members from only attending for their own speeches.
This test is part of several initiatives aimed at making the plenary sessions more engaging. The idea was initiated under former President David Sassoli, who served until his death in 2022 and continues under current President Roberta Metsola. Group leaders will evaluate the new format.
The first test took place on Tuesday morning during the debate on the Digital Services Act (DSA). After the initial round of interventions, ordered by group size, President Roberta Metsola decided on the speaking order. Only the next two speakers were announced, compelling members to stay present in the chamber.
Another test is scheduled for Wednesday morning during the debate on the Polish Presidency of the EU Council.
Manfred Weber, leader of the European People’s Party (EPP), believes there is much more room to make debates more lively after the trial debate on Tuesday. "I was in the plenary just now, and I can tell you it was very crowded," he said, adding that listening to each other is "a form of respect" in debates.
Leaders of the social-democratic and liberal groups agreed. However, liberal leader Valérie Hayer pointed out, "Just because we are not in the chamber doesn’t mean we are not working."
