Watch the European Parliament Live: Plenary Sessions and Debates
This player shows the official European Parliament YouTube channel when it is live. If nothing is live, the player may say the video is unavailable. The plenary agenda below shows what is scheduled.
What Is This Feed?
The European Parliament is the directly elected assembly of the European Union, with members chosen by citizens in 27 countries. This feed comes from its official YouTube channel, which carries live debates, speeches and events.
During a plenary, Members of the European Parliament, known as MEPs, debate and vote on EU laws and budgets. Interpreters work across the EU's many official languages, which is a remarkable sight in its own right.
When Can I Watch?
Plenary sessions are the main events. They are generally held once a month in Strasbourg and run from Monday to Thursday, with some shorter sessions in Brussels. Committee work fills most of the other weeks.
The Parliament publishes plenary agendas in advance. Times are Central European, so viewers in the United States should plan on morning or early afternoon hours.
Why This Feed Matters?
The EU shows that countries with a long history of war can settle their differences in a chamber. Votes have replaced battles, and that may be one of the greatest peace achievements of modern times.
A body this large can feel distant from everyday life. Public video helps close that gap, so a voter in Lisbon or Warsaw can see how their MEP voted and what they said.
Common Questions
What is a plenary session?
A plenary is a meeting of the whole Parliament, where all members can debate and vote, as opposed to a smaller committee.
Why does the European Parliament meet in Strasbourg?
EU treaties set Strasbourg as the Parliament's official seat, while much of its committee work happens in Brussels.
How many countries elect the European Parliament?
Citizens in all 27 EU member states elect it.
Ready To Vote?
Democracy works best when citizens take part. See voter registration links for France, Germany, Ireland and other countries, plus all U.S. states.
Take the Next Step
Find volunteer opportunities, visit the voting resources page, or shop sustainable products.
Buy the book that led to the creation of this website: Peace is Active by Tom McCann
Share what you’re doing for peace on social media with #peaceisactive