Metsola Becomes First Female President to Secure Second Term in European Parliament

Tags: Person in news International News

Roberta Metsola was re-elected as President of the European Parliament on July 16, 2024, for another two and a half years, extending her term until 2027.

An Overview of the News

• Metsola became the first woman to win a second term as President of the European Parliament.

• Election Details: She secured 562 out of 699 votes, achieving an absolute majority in the first round and defeated Irene Montero, who received 61 votes.

Metsola's Background and Career:

• First Election: Elected as a member of the European Parliament (MEP) in 2013, becoming one of Malta's first female MEPs.

• Re-elections: Re-elected as MEP in 2014 and 2019.

• Vice-Presidency: Became the first Maltese First Vice-President of the European Parliament in November 2020.

• Acting President: Served as acting President following the death of David Sassoli on January 11, 2022.

• Full Presidency: Elected as President on January 18, 2022, for the second half of the 9th legislative term.

• Past Presidents: Third woman to hold the position, following Simone Veil (1979-1982) and Nicole Fontaine (1999-2002).

Metsola's Roles and Contributions:

• Committee Work: Served as the EPP Group's Coordinator in the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice, and Home Affairs (2017-2020).

• Legislative Contributions: Was the Parliament's rapporteur on the European Border and Coastguard Regulation in 2019.

• Journalist Protection: Co-authored a report on protecting journalists in the EU from Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation.

About European Union (EU)

• EU Presidency (July-December 2024): Hungary

• European Council President: Charles Michel (until December 2024)

• European Commission President: Ursula von der Leyen

• Headquarters: Brussels, Belgium