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Dear John!

 

Welcome back after a summer that has vividly highlighted the pressing issues we’re facing in Europe. 

 

We've witnessed a summer like no other, with wildfires, floods, and other catastrophes caused by climate change, leaving trails of devastation in their wake. This has shown us more than ever that we need Greens in charge to fight climate change and its consequences.

This is why, all over Europe, our supporters and members are currently rolling up their sleeves to get ready for the upcoming European Elections. And you can be part of it:

Our fight for the Green transition is needed to preserve lives, guarantee security to citizens, and shield vital economic activities from the ravages of an ever-changing climate.

 

Now, with an eye on the upcoming elections in Poland, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, and on a regional level in Germany, we stand united, and support our member parties’ campaigns as much as we can. In the European Parliament and wherever Greens are in government and in institutions, they show that they do make a difference with tangible improvements for the climate and the people.

 

This summer, Spain has exemplified that pushing back against regressive forces is not just possible, but necessary. Sumar’s energy and success motivate us in our preparations for the 2024 European Election campaign.

 

Looking ahead, we are tirelessly preparing for our collective campaign, gearing up to our Electoral Congress in February, a focal point on our road to the 2024 European Elections. 

 

If you want to support us in our campaign, please sign up here to become a volunteer!

Updates from the European Greens

European Commission

Hoekstra nomination puts Europe's climate goals at risk  

 

• The situation: Outgoing Dutch Prime Minister Marc Rutte has nominated Wopke Hoekstra, a former Shell employee, for the role of Commissioner for Climate. Notably, Hoekstra is not known as a climate advocate, making him a stark contrast to his predecessor Frans Timmermans.
• Our take: Hoekstra's nomination is cause for concern. His track record shows little support for the urgent climate protection efforts needed and the positioning of his party, the Dutch EPP member party CDA, undermines trust in his ability to lead EU climate policy forward – particularly considering the EPP's recent attempts to scrap the Nature Restoration Law. Moreover, during his time as the Dutch finance minister, he established himself as a strong supporter of austerity by fiercely opposing Corona bonds and other forms of shared debt during the Corona pandemic.
• The critical position of Climate Commissioner should be filled by someone with the experience and the strong commitment needed to advancing climate protection in the EU.
• Next up: Hoekstra is set to face a rigorous examination from our Green MEPs during a European Parliament hearing this month. We anticipate that he will be ready to provide substantial answers to the critical questions regarding his stance on and plans for climate protection. 

 

Pride

We’re joining EuroPride in Malta

• The European-wide Pride event will take place in Malta’s capital Valetta from 7 – 17 September.
• A Green delegation will join the EuroPride March on 16 September, standing in solidarity with thousands of queer people and their allies. Keep an eye out for more on this next week! 

 

Social Summit

Greens gather in Spain for Green Social Summit

• Eight months before the European elections, on 29 and 30 September, 300 Green leaders, experts and activists from across Europe will gather in Madrid to discuss how to build a stronger European Union based on social and ecological justice, and centred on human dignity.
• Read more on our event page.

 

Local Councilors Network meets tilt!

Webinar: Fighting Period Poverty

• Period poverty, intensified by high VAT on menstrual products, affects 1 in 10 menstruating individuals across Europe.
• This webinar, 8 November, 19:00 CET, delves into local council initiatives offering free menstrual products in public spaces, and how collaborating with civil society can amplify efforts and make a tangible difference.
• Read more and join the webinar.

Updates from our member parties

Germany

Greens in government drive progressive change

• Green minister for family affairs Lisa Paus has finalised a significant initiative to tackle child poverty by consolidating child services (child guarantee).

• A new Self-Determination Law champions the rights of trans, intersex, and non-binary people, ending decades-old discriminatory practices. In the future, every person will be able to determine and change their gender entry and first name themselves.

• Coming into effect in 2024, the Building Energy Law stands as a milestone for climate protection, focusing on sustainable heating and tenant protection. The law was proposed by Green Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, Robert Habeck.

 

Poland

Zieloni rallies for positive change in October elections

• Our member party, Zieloni, is gearing up for the parliamentary elections on 15 October in collaboration with the Civic Coalition. Together, they aim for a greener, fairer, and more democratic Poland.
• We stand with all those pushing for positive change, moving past nationalism and restrictive policies.

 

Netherlands

GroenLinks' push for change in November's elections

• Following Marc Rutte's resignation, the Netherlands gears up for an early election on 22 November. GroenLinks teams up with the social-democratic PvdA, championing Frans Timmermans as the leading candidate.
• As the conservative-liberal era under Rutte concludes, there's renewed hope for progressive leadership. Best wishes to all contenders!

   

Luxembourg 

Greens aim to continue their vision in Luxembourg elections

• Luxembourg is preparing for the general elections on 8 October. The Greens, déi gréng, who have held a substantial role in the government for the past decade, are determined to maintain the momentum, driving forward change even amidst persistent crises.
• Good luck to all candidates and campaigners!

Upcoming Events

• 16 Sep: Greens at the EuroPride March in Valetta, Malta

• 23 Sep: Vienna Feminist Climate Conference, Austria

• 29 – 30 Sep: Green Social Summit, Madrid, Spain

• 12 Oct: Energy communities: solving global challenges locally (The Greens in the European Committee of the Regions), Brussels, Belgium

• 17 – 18 Nov: European Green Academy 2023 in Warsaw, Poland

• 2 Dec: 38th European Greens Congress, online

• 2 – 4 Feb: 7th Extraordinary Extended Congress, Lyon, France

Updates from our partner organisations

Glyphosate

Decision makers in Brussels are quietly planning to allow the use of glyphosate – a pesticide that kills nature – for another fifteen years. We need to let them know this is unacceptable. Sign the petition now. 

Vacancy

Green European Foundation is recruiting a full-time Vice-Director to join the team in Brussels as soon as possible! Apply before 10 September.

 

European Green Academy
The European Green Academy is soon approaching! This November, we are heading back to Warsaw to debate the big questions of today and tomorrow in a vibrant space for learning and experimentation. Would you like to join? Register here before 17 September!

Training opportunity 
The Young European Greens are launching their series of trainings on 20 September with Artificial Intelligence in Campaigning. Find out how you can use AI to change the world for the better. Get your invite by signing up for the Green Base here. 

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