Hi John,

Today, we return from our summer break with a quick recap of what you might have missed in July and August.

First, some breaking news: While the presentation of the new EU Commission has been postponed to next week, we already know a huge majority of governments are proposing two men instead of a man and a woman for the EU's top jobs. This falls short of President von der Leyen’s promise for a gender-balanced Commission. Back in 2019, von der Leyen achieved this balance in top EU positions. Now, it’s crucial for her to continue pushing member states to strive for the same equality once more.

This is 2024. We deserve better.

This Commission is not just about gender balance. We are extremely worried by the possibility that a far-right Commissioner could become Executive Vice-President, as news reports suggest. As Greens, we will closely review each nominee and their portfolios to ensure the Commission is ready for the challenges ahead. The confirmation hearings will take place in October.

Here are some news you might’ve missed over the summer:

European Greens Congress

Green family will gather in Dublin, Ireland

It’s Congress time again! The European Greens will gather from 6 – 8 December in Dublin, Ireland. During this event, the delegates will elect a new Committee, including co-chairs. For the first time, the Committee will consist of 13 members of whom one will be nominated by FYEG. Delegates will also vote on resolutions that will shape our party's future. Stay tuned for more details about our Congress.

Greens/EFA

Terry and Bas elected as co-presidents of Greens/EFA

Congratulations to our European Green lead candidates, Terry Reintke and Bas Eickhout, on their election as co-presidents of the Greens/EFA Group in the European Parliament! We wish them the best of luck in their new roles as they lead our fight for a greener, fairer Europe in the European Parliament. Learn more.

Green European Foundation

Be part of the European Green Academy 2024

Registrations for the European Green Academy, 22 – 24 November in Brussels, are open now! The event will be a pivotal moment to come together to deepen understanding of the political situation and bring forward-looking ideas and debates on crucial topics such as the Green and Social Deal, Peace & Security, and Democracy. Register now!

Member parties

Bulgarian Greens outraged about anti LGBTQI* law

Together with our member party from Bulgaria, Zeleno dvizhenie, we strongly condemn the recent legislative changes in Bulgaria that stigmatise and discriminate against the LGBTIQ+ community by labelling "non-traditional sexual orientation and/or gender identities" as “propaganda”. This law violates the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights and undermines democratic values. We stand firmly with the queer community in Bulgaria and together with Zeleno dvizhenie, we call for respect, acceptance, and diversity. Read on Facebook.

06 – 08 December 2024
European Greens Congress • Dublin, Ireland

If you enjoy reading our updates, consider forwarding this newsletter to a friend or colleague or inviting them to subscribe.

Historic victory in England and Wales: The European Green Party congratulates the Green Party of England and Wales who quadrupled their seats to a historic record of four MPs, their best ever general election result. Under the slogan 'Real Hope. Real change", the Greens won as many seats in rural areas as in the cities. Press release.

New Ecolo co-chairs elected: Congratulations to Marie Lecocq and Samuel Cogolati on being elected as the new co-presidents of Ecolo in Belgium. We look forward to seeing them advance a strong, inclusive, and progressive ecological agenda for the next four years. Best of luck to Marie and Samuel as they take on this important role!

Global Greens: Nature needs you! Biodiversity COP16 is only a few weeks away and the Global Greens are leading a campaign to get each country to deliver the strongest outcomes possible. Send an email to your Minister of the Environment today with their template: click here.

FOLLOW US!