<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><?xml-stylesheet href="https://feeds.captivate.fm/style.xsl" type="text/xsl"?><rss xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" version="2.0" xmlns:googleplay="http://www.google.com/schemas/play-podcasts/1.0" xmlns:itunes="http://www.itunes.com/dtds/podcast-1.0.dtd" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:podcast="https://podcastindex.org/namespace/1.0"><channel><atom:link href="https://feeds.captivate.fm/epp-group-podcast/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/><title><![CDATA[EU Decoded]]></title><podcast:guid>51e57b56-ee69-5df5-b7c6-c83cd4d146ec</podcast:guid><lastBuildDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2026 10:04:41 +0000</lastBuildDate><generator>Captivate.fm</generator><language><![CDATA[en]]></language><copyright><![CDATA[Copyright 2026 EPP Group]]></copyright><managingEditor>EPP Group</managingEditor><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Bringing you politics from the heart of the EU.

Please subscribe, rate and review our podcast on your favourite podcast platform. 

If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed, please get in touch via social media.

- Facebook: http://facebook.com/EPPGroup
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- Twitter: http://twitter.com/eppgroup

For more information about the EPP Group visit: www.eppgroup.eu]]></itunes:summary><image><url>https://artwork.captivate.fm/5f688bf7-4c64-43c1-b3e0-b7874234d05d/blAc2fViLygM6QMfJBfcFlJs.jpg</url><title>EU Decoded</title><link><![CDATA[http://eppgroup.eu]]></link></image><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/5f688bf7-4c64-43c1-b3e0-b7874234d05d/blAc2fViLygM6QMfJBfcFlJs.jpg"/><itunes:owner><itunes:name>EPP Group</itunes:name></itunes:owner><itunes:author>EPP Group</itunes:author><description>Bringing you politics from the heart of the EU.

Please subscribe, rate and review our podcast on your favourite podcast platform. 

If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed, please get in touch via social media.

- Facebook: http://facebook.com/EPPGroup
- Instagram: http://instagram.com/eppgroup
- Twitter: http://twitter.com/eppgroup

For more information about the EPP Group visit: www.eppgroup.eu</description><link>http://eppgroup.eu</link><atom:link href="https://pubsubhubbub.appspot.com" rel="hub"/><itunes:subtitle><![CDATA[The EPP Group Podcast]]></itunes:subtitle><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:type>episodic</itunes:type><itunes:category text="News"><itunes:category text="Politics"/></itunes:category><itunes:category text="News"></itunes:category><itunes:category text="Government"></itunes:category><podcast:locked>no</podcast:locked><podcast:medium>podcast</podcast:medium><podcast:txt>v=spf1 include:eppgroup.eu ~all  This is an official EPP Group Podcast. The EPP Group is the largest and oldest political group in the European Parliament.  A centre-right group, we are committed to creating a stronger and self-assured Europe, built at the service of its people.  Our goal is to create a more competitive and democratic Europe, where people can build the life they want.  Stay up-to-date with news from the European Parliament and on topics that matter to you on our social networks.</podcast:txt><item><title>Hybrid war and hostage diplomacy: What’s next for Belarus?</title><itunes:title>Hybrid war and hostage diplomacy: What’s next for Belarus?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">In the latest episode of “EU Decoded”, we unpack the political developments in Belarus. At the turn of 2025-2026, the United States partly lifted and eased some of its sanctions on Belarusian exports, a key source of revenue for the regime. Shortly after, President Aliaksandr Lukashenka released 123* political prisoners, including prominent opposition figures Viktar Babaryka, Maria Kalesnikava and Ales Bialiatski. </p><p class="ql-align-justify">What does this mean for the European Union’s policy towards Minsk? Should sanctions pressure continue while hundreds of political prisoners remain behind bars? </p><p class="ql-align-justify">In this episode, we also examine Belarus’ ongoing alignment with Vladimir Putin’s Russia in the war against Ukraine, and the use of migration pressure at the EU’s borders as a hybrid warfare tactic. </p><p class="ql-align-justify">Our guests: </p><p class="ql-align-justify"><strong>EPP Group MEPs Andrzej Halicki and Paulius Saudargas</strong> </p><p class="ql-align-justify"><strong>and </strong> </p><p class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Anna Krasulina, Deputy Chairperson of the United Civil Party of Belarus</strong> </p><p class="ql-align-justify">🎙️ Listen to the latest episode of “EU Decoded” to understand what these developments mean for Europe. </p><p class="ql-align-justify">* This episode was recorded before Belarusian authorities released another 250 prisoners on 19 March. </p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">In the latest episode of “EU Decoded”, we unpack the political developments in Belarus. At the turn of 2025-2026, the United States partly lifted and eased some of its sanctions on Belarusian exports, a key source of revenue for the regime. Shortly after, President Aliaksandr Lukashenka released 123* political prisoners, including prominent opposition figures Viktar Babaryka, Maria Kalesnikava and Ales Bialiatski. </p><p class="ql-align-justify">What does this mean for the European Union’s policy towards Minsk? Should sanctions pressure continue while hundreds of political prisoners remain behind bars? </p><p class="ql-align-justify">In this episode, we also examine Belarus’ ongoing alignment with Vladimir Putin’s Russia in the war against Ukraine, and the use of migration pressure at the EU’s borders as a hybrid warfare tactic. </p><p class="ql-align-justify">Our guests: </p><p class="ql-align-justify"><strong>EPP Group MEPs Andrzej Halicki and Paulius Saudargas</strong> </p><p class="ql-align-justify"><strong>and </strong> </p><p class="ql-align-justify"><strong>Anna Krasulina, Deputy Chairperson of the United Civil Party of Belarus</strong> </p><p class="ql-align-justify">🎙️ Listen to the latest episode of “EU Decoded” to understand what these developments mean for Europe. </p><p class="ql-align-justify">* This episode was recorded before Belarusian authorities released another 250 prisoners on 19 March. </p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/hybrid-war-and-hostage-diplomacy-whats-next-for-belarus]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">0e4f80c7-a74f-450f-8243-5da4dfbb7246</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/ba980e12-827d-4783-a566-e413ee49abaa/fb-podcast-key.jpg"/><pubDate>Mon, 23 Mar 2026 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/0e4f80c7-a74f-450f-8243-5da4dfbb7246.mp3" length="29737525" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>20:36</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>7</itunes:season><itunes:episode>16</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>16</podcast:episode><podcast:season>7</podcast:season></item><item><title>Iran, ‘Coco’s Law’, and securing the EU online and offline</title><itunes:title>Iran, ‘Coco’s Law’, and securing the EU online and offline</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of “EU Decoded”, we bring you this past week’s plenary session in a nutshell. </p><p class="ql-align-justify">From strengthening Europe’s defence to tackling cyberbullying and improving the housing situation, the main goal is to make Europe safer and more prosperous. We also discuss child protection, focusing on the steps to take to make the online space safer for everyone. </p><p class="ql-align-justify">Tune in! </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of “EU Decoded”, we bring you this past week’s plenary session in a nutshell. </p><p class="ql-align-justify">From strengthening Europe’s defence to tackling cyberbullying and improving the housing situation, the main goal is to make Europe safer and more prosperous. We also discuss child protection, focusing on the steps to take to make the online space safer for everyone. </p><p class="ql-align-justify">Tune in! </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/iran-cocos-law-and-securing-the-eu-online-and-offline]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">54a075a0-f74b-4aac-bfa1-5575f9966052</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/1ab39075-f4dd-45c1-b806-8c73dee09daf/fb-podcast-key-7.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 09:45:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/54a075a0-f74b-4aac-bfa1-5575f9966052.mp3" length="32267520" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>13:27</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>7</itunes:season><itunes:episode>15</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>15</podcast:episode><podcast:season>7</podcast:season></item><item><title>Gender equality: Why are we still talking about it?</title><itunes:title>Gender equality: Why are we still talking about it?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>To mark International Women’s Day 2026, in our new episode of “EU Decoded” we ask: Gender equality - why are we still talking about it? </p><p>We look at the concrete steps Europe has taken in recent years, from pay transparency rules to help close the gender pay gap to stronger parental and carers’ rights, binding targets for women on corporate boards, and the first-ever EU Directive to Combat Violence Against Women. </p><p>Our guest are MEPs Liesbet Sommen and Maria Walsh.</p><p>Tune in!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>To mark International Women’s Day 2026, in our new episode of “EU Decoded” we ask: Gender equality - why are we still talking about it? </p><p>We look at the concrete steps Europe has taken in recent years, from pay transparency rules to help close the gender pay gap to stronger parental and carers’ rights, binding targets for women on corporate boards, and the first-ever EU Directive to Combat Violence Against Women. </p><p>Our guest are MEPs Liesbet Sommen and Maria Walsh.</p><p>Tune in!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/gender-equality-why-are-we-still-talking-about-it]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">183e779b-5b64-4b96-a8cb-a66090b084d9</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/f9a25c7c-0c8e-4853-9649-65dd9fcfb1ca/fb-podcast-key-6.jpg"/><pubDate>Thu, 05 Mar 2026 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/183e779b-5b64-4b96-a8cb-a66090b084d9.mp3" length="39715295" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>27:31</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>7</itunes:season><itunes:episode>14</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>14</podcast:episode><podcast:season>7</podcast:season></item><item><title>Protecting Europe: From Battlefields to Phone Screens</title><itunes:title>Protecting Europe: From Battlefields to Phone Screens</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">In this episode of “EU Decoded”, we bring you a wrap up of the latest Plenary session and explore how the European Parliament is addressing the defining challenges of our time. </p><p class="ql-align-justify">From strengthening Europe’s defence to reforming migration procedures and supporting Ukraine with a €90 billion package, the focus is on security, unity, and resilience. </p><p class="ql-align-justify">We also discuss Europe’s economic competitiveness, with calls to deepen the Single Market and reduce barriers to growth. Finally, we turn to online safety, as we call for criminalising cyberbullying across the EU and better protecting children in the digital age. </p><p class="ql-align-justify">Tune in! </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">In this episode of “EU Decoded”, we bring you a wrap up of the latest Plenary session and explore how the European Parliament is addressing the defining challenges of our time. </p><p class="ql-align-justify">From strengthening Europe’s defence to reforming migration procedures and supporting Ukraine with a €90 billion package, the focus is on security, unity, and resilience. </p><p class="ql-align-justify">We also discuss Europe’s economic competitiveness, with calls to deepen the Single Market and reduce barriers to growth. Finally, we turn to online safety, as we call for criminalising cyberbullying across the EU and better protecting children in the digital age. </p><p class="ql-align-justify">Tune in! </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/protecting-europe-from-battlefields-to-phone-screens]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">79c7ac1d-1123-4ec7-ab0e-a7c975c73fde</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/c726d715-06fd-45e4-ab8e-fddf647da728/fb-podcast-key-5.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 13 Feb 2026 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/79c7ac1d-1123-4ec7-ab0e-a7c975c73fde.mp3" length="25632000" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>10:41</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>7</itunes:season><itunes:episode>13</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>13</podcast:episode><podcast:season>7</podcast:season></item><item><title>On the edge of a new world: The Greenland ultimatum, dictators down, and Grok’s shame</title><itunes:title>On the edge of a new world: The Greenland ultimatum, dictators down, and Grok’s shame</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>January 2026 is off to an eventful start in geopolitics. In this episode of 'EU Decoded', we break down the key debates and outcomes of the first European Parliament plenary session of the year.  </p><p>The EPP Group stands firmly with the people of Greenland and condemns the brutal repression of protests in Iran, expressing our solidarity with the Iranian people. At the EPP Group’s initiative, the European Parliament also debated the situation in Venezuela following the extraction of Nicolás Maduro. Beyond geopolitics, we confront the alarming rise of AI-driven exploitation, which overwhelmingly targets women and children. </p><p>While facing these challenges, we celebrate Europe’s strength and unity, marking 40 years of Portugal and Spain in the EU with inspiring addresses from President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and King Felipe VI.  </p><p>Tune in! </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>January 2026 is off to an eventful start in geopolitics. In this episode of 'EU Decoded', we break down the key debates and outcomes of the first European Parliament plenary session of the year.  </p><p>The EPP Group stands firmly with the people of Greenland and condemns the brutal repression of protests in Iran, expressing our solidarity with the Iranian people. At the EPP Group’s initiative, the European Parliament also debated the situation in Venezuela following the extraction of Nicolás Maduro. Beyond geopolitics, we confront the alarming rise of AI-driven exploitation, which overwhelmingly targets women and children. </p><p>While facing these challenges, we celebrate Europe’s strength and unity, marking 40 years of Portugal and Spain in the EU with inspiring addresses from President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and King Felipe VI.  </p><p>Tune in! </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/on-the-edge-of-a-new-world-the-greenland-ultimatum-dictators-down-and-groks-shame]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">96bd80c9-c512-4069-bdd8-c5ee89a610a2</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/78afe359-d3d6-455c-98af-0076c36b93e8/fb-podcast-key.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2026 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/96bd80c9-c512-4069-bdd8-c5ee89a610a2.mp3" length="22697280" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>09:27</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>7</itunes:season><itunes:episode>12</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>12</podcast:episode><podcast:season>7</podcast:season></item><item><title>Greenland and the New Arctic Power Game</title><itunes:title>Greenland and the New Arctic Power Game</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Greenland is the world’s largest island and part of the Kingdom of Denmark, with significant autonomy. Located between the Arctic and North Atlantic, it is strategically important for: </p><p>-Military bases and missile defence systems. </p><p>-Surveillance of Arctic shipping routes. </p><p>-Access to rare minerals, including rare earths, uranium, and other critical resources. </p><p class="ql-align-justify">U.S. President Donald Trump has renewed statements about acquiring Greenland, calling it vital for U.S. defence and not ruling out force - provoking alarm among Denmark, the EU and other NATO allies. In our newest episode of EU Decoded we focus on Greenland’s strategic significance, US ambitions, and how Europe - particularly the EU and the EPP Group - can protect its interests. Our guests are: the Danish Member of the European Parliament and of the EPP Group Niels Hansen and the Member of the European Parliament and EP’s standing rapporteur on the US, Michał Szczerba. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Greenland is the world’s largest island and part of the Kingdom of Denmark, with significant autonomy. Located between the Arctic and North Atlantic, it is strategically important for: </p><p>-Military bases and missile defence systems. </p><p>-Surveillance of Arctic shipping routes. </p><p>-Access to rare minerals, including rare earths, uranium, and other critical resources. </p><p class="ql-align-justify">U.S. President Donald Trump has renewed statements about acquiring Greenland, calling it vital for U.S. defence and not ruling out force - provoking alarm among Denmark, the EU and other NATO allies. In our newest episode of EU Decoded we focus on Greenland’s strategic significance, US ambitions, and how Europe - particularly the EU and the EPP Group - can protect its interests. Our guests are: the Danish Member of the European Parliament and of the EPP Group Niels Hansen and the Member of the European Parliament and EP’s standing rapporteur on the US, Michał Szczerba. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/greenland-and-the-new-arctic-power-game]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">04d8d3df-05f8-48e0-b28e-772eb761b9a7</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/c51c4e08-a40b-4d7c-b345-9bea8bc7bac9/fb-podcast-key-8.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 16 Jan 2026 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/04d8d3df-05f8-48e0-b28e-772eb761b9a7.mp3" length="23667697" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>16:21</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>7</itunes:season><itunes:episode>11</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>11</podcast:episode><podcast:season>7</podcast:season></item><item><title>A turning point for Europe’s security and industry</title><itunes:title>A turning point for Europe’s security and industry</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this final episode of 2025, “EU Decoded” wraps up the European Parliament’s last Strasbourg plenary session of the year. We decode some of our key EPP Group successes this week, such as reversing the disastrous ban on internal combustion engines and balancing climate goals with industrial competitiveness and jobs. Plus, after negotiations led by the EPP Group, the Omnibus I simplification package was backed by a large majority and will simplify rules and reduce costs for businesses across the continent. We also dive into our firm stance on phasing out Russian oil and gas while keeping energy affordable for everyone. Tune in!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this final episode of 2025, “EU Decoded” wraps up the European Parliament’s last Strasbourg plenary session of the year. We decode some of our key EPP Group successes this week, such as reversing the disastrous ban on internal combustion engines and balancing climate goals with industrial competitiveness and jobs. Plus, after negotiations led by the EPP Group, the Omnibus I simplification package was backed by a large majority and will simplify rules and reduce costs for businesses across the continent. We also dive into our firm stance on phasing out Russian oil and gas while keeping energy affordable for everyone. Tune in!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/a-turning-point-for-europes-security-and-industry]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">9961ff01-8706-4625-9236-cbc9cd7f2cc2</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/d1453b7e-762c-4b82-b098-f49659fab592/fb-podcast-key.jpg"/><pubDate>Thu, 18 Dec 2025 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/9961ff01-8706-4625-9236-cbc9cd7f2cc2.mp3" length="19019520" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>07:55</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>7</itunes:season><itunes:episode>10</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>10</podcast:episode><podcast:season>7</podcast:season></item><item><title>A Silent Tragedy: The Persecution of Christian Minorities in Africa and the Middle East</title><itunes:title>A Silent Tragedy: The Persecution of Christian Minorities in Africa and the Middle East</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Christian communities across Africa and the Middle East are facing unprecedented levels of violence -&nbsp;kidnappings, church burnings, intimidation, and even mass killings. And yet, much of the world remains silent.&nbsp;</p><p>In this episode, MEP François-Xavier Bellamy sheds light on this overlooked crisis. We discuss why Christians have become one of the most targeted groups globally, how extremist movements and state policies contribute to their persecution, and why Europe cannot look away.&nbsp;</p><p>MEP Bellamy also reflects on the EU’s responsibility to defend freedom of conscience - a value deeply rooted in Europe’s own history - and outlines what practical steps Europe can take to protect vulnerable minorities.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in for a powerful and necessary conversation.&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Christian communities across Africa and the Middle East are facing unprecedented levels of violence -&nbsp;kidnappings, church burnings, intimidation, and even mass killings. And yet, much of the world remains silent.&nbsp;</p><p>In this episode, MEP François-Xavier Bellamy sheds light on this overlooked crisis. We discuss why Christians have become one of the most targeted groups globally, how extremist movements and state policies contribute to their persecution, and why Europe cannot look away.&nbsp;</p><p>MEP Bellamy also reflects on the EU’s responsibility to defend freedom of conscience - a value deeply rooted in Europe’s own history - and outlines what practical steps Europe can take to protect vulnerable minorities.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in for a powerful and necessary conversation.&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/a-silent-tragedy-the-persecution-of-christian-minorities-in-africa-and-the-middle-east]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">fd4170dd-5337-434d-9125-b39d3256a8bd</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/9b499d2e-f326-4ec7-8d1c-5b649ded86c3/fb-podcast-key-7.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 16 Dec 2025 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/fd4170dd-5337-434d-9125-b39d3256a8bd.mp3" length="29821828" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>20:41</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>7</itunes:season><itunes:episode>9</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>9</podcast:episode><podcast:season>7</podcast:season></item><item><title>Voices of Courage: The Sakharov Prize and the Fight for Truth in Belarus and Georgia</title><itunes:title>Voices of Courage: The Sakharov Prize and the Fight for Truth in Belarus and Georgia</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">Two countries, two different people, but their stories are so similar. Andrzej Poczobut and Mzia Amaglobeli represent two fronts of the same struggle - the defence of truth, dignity, and free expression against Kremlin-sponsored tyranny.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Journalists from Belarus and Georgia were jointly awarded the European Parliament’s Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought, following a nomination by the EPP Group and a decision by the Parliament’s political group leaders and President Roberta Metsola.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">In this episode of the “EU Decoded Podcast,” we talk with Andrzej Halicki, MEP and Vice-Chair of the EPP Group, who co-initiated the nomination for Andrzej Poczobut for the Sakharov Prize; Łukasz Kohut, MEP and Vice-Chair of the Subcommittee on Human Rights, as well as co-initiator of the nomination; and Rasa Juknevičienė, MEP and co-initiator of the nomination for Mzia Amaglobeli.&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">Two countries, two different people, but their stories are so similar. Andrzej Poczobut and Mzia Amaglobeli represent two fronts of the same struggle - the defence of truth, dignity, and free expression against Kremlin-sponsored tyranny.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Journalists from Belarus and Georgia were jointly awarded the European Parliament’s Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought, following a nomination by the EPP Group and a decision by the Parliament’s political group leaders and President Roberta Metsola.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">In this episode of the “EU Decoded Podcast,” we talk with Andrzej Halicki, MEP and Vice-Chair of the EPP Group, who co-initiated the nomination for Andrzej Poczobut for the Sakharov Prize; Łukasz Kohut, MEP and Vice-Chair of the Subcommittee on Human Rights, as well as co-initiator of the nomination; and Rasa Juknevičienė, MEP and co-initiator of the nomination for Mzia Amaglobeli.&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/voices-of-courage-the-sakharov-prize-and-the-fight-for-truth-in-belarus-and-georgia]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">9ed501d7-1556-4d76-895d-bb37c66d0826</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/02321540-3fd3-45a3-8a93-380fb21260d8/fb-podcast-key-6.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 10 Dec 2025 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/9ed501d7-1556-4d76-895d-bb37c66d0826.mp3" length="9704153" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>06:43</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>7</itunes:season><itunes:episode>8</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>8</podcast:episode><podcast:season>7</podcast:season></item><item><title>Sudan: The war the world forgot</title><itunes:title>Sudan: The war the world forgot</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">The conflict in Sudan is one of the worst humanitarian disasters of our time&nbsp;– yet it remains largely overlooked. Cities have collapsed, famine is spreading, millions are displaced, and warnings of genocide are growing. Some figures: around 30.4 million people need humanitarian assistance. Over 11 million people are displaced<strong> </strong>– 8.5 million internally and 3.9 million in neighbouring countries. Sudan is being described as the world’s largest displacement crisis today. Healthcare is collapsing; health facilities have been destroyed, and disease outbreaks (cholera, measles, malaria) are rising. Sexual and gender-based violence is increasing, especially among displaced populations.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">In this episode of "EU Decoded", we spoke with MEP Reinhold Lopatka, Head of the Austrian Delegation of the EPP Group in the European Parliament and Chair of the Delegation for relations with the Arab Peninsula; Ingeborg Ter Laak from the Netherlands, Vice-Chair of the Delegation to the Africa-EU Parliamentary Assembly; and Lukas Mandl, also from Austria, EPP Group negotiator of the resolution on Sudan. Furthermore, we have recordings from people in Sudan: Mr Salih Mahmoud Osman, who won the Sakharov Prize in 2007; Mr Mohamed Moustafa El-Nour, a human rights lawyer; and Ms Salwa Elsadik, a Sudanese women’s rights activist.&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">The conflict in Sudan is one of the worst humanitarian disasters of our time&nbsp;– yet it remains largely overlooked. Cities have collapsed, famine is spreading, millions are displaced, and warnings of genocide are growing. Some figures: around 30.4 million people need humanitarian assistance. Over 11 million people are displaced<strong> </strong>– 8.5 million internally and 3.9 million in neighbouring countries. Sudan is being described as the world’s largest displacement crisis today. Healthcare is collapsing; health facilities have been destroyed, and disease outbreaks (cholera, measles, malaria) are rising. Sexual and gender-based violence is increasing, especially among displaced populations.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">In this episode of "EU Decoded", we spoke with MEP Reinhold Lopatka, Head of the Austrian Delegation of the EPP Group in the European Parliament and Chair of the Delegation for relations with the Arab Peninsula; Ingeborg Ter Laak from the Netherlands, Vice-Chair of the Delegation to the Africa-EU Parliamentary Assembly; and Lukas Mandl, also from Austria, EPP Group negotiator of the resolution on Sudan. Furthermore, we have recordings from people in Sudan: Mr Salih Mahmoud Osman, who won the Sakharov Prize in 2007; Mr Mohamed Moustafa El-Nour, a human rights lawyer; and Ms Salwa Elsadik, a Sudanese women’s rights activist.&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/sudan-the-war-the-world-forgot]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">7cfc1a43-2b79-4b20-9882-c6c8ed261c2c</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/1ab4ba43-f102-4d93-ad10-0887143103d0/fb-Sudan-podcast-key.jpg"/><pubDate>Thu, 04 Dec 2025 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/7cfc1a43-2b79-4b20-9882-c6c8ed261c2c.mp3" length="23802028" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>16:30</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>7</itunes:season><itunes:episode>7</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>7</podcast:episode><podcast:season>7</podcast:season></item><item><title>Focus points: peace for Ukraine, the EU’s defence, China, and the protection of children and Christian minorities</title><itunes:title>Focus points: peace for Ukraine, the EU’s defence, China, and the protection of children and Christian minorities</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this week’s EU Decoded, we dive into the most pressing topics from the European Parliament’s plenary session in Strasbourg. We break down the newly adopted European Defence Industry Programme, designed to boost Europe’s defence industry capabilities. </p><p>We also discuss how to stop illegal and dangerous Chinese products from flooding the EU market and how to ensure Europe’s children grow up in a digital world that supports, not harms, their development. </p><p>Tune in!&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this week’s EU Decoded, we dive into the most pressing topics from the European Parliament’s plenary session in Strasbourg. We break down the newly adopted European Defence Industry Programme, designed to boost Europe’s defence industry capabilities. </p><p>We also discuss how to stop illegal and dangerous Chinese products from flooding the EU market and how to ensure Europe’s children grow up in a digital world that supports, not harms, their development. </p><p>Tune in!&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/focus-points-peace-for-ukraine-the-eus-defence-china-and-the-protection-of-children-and-christian-minorities]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">c2bbee4f-fa67-4c78-8bdb-da3639a11d65</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/750c6efb-9e0a-4c44-a83f-e24c2093bdd7/fb-podcast-key-5.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 28 Nov 2025 08:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/c2bbee4f-fa67-4c78-8bdb-da3639a11d65.mp3" length="25083840" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>10:27</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>7</itunes:season><itunes:episode>6</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>6</podcast:episode><podcast:season>7</podcast:season></item><item><title>Bridging the Atlantic: The Future of EU-US Relations</title><itunes:title>Bridging the Atlantic: The Future of EU-US Relations</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Over the past few years, the geopolitical landscape has been reshaped.&nbsp;</p><p>The recently published EPP Group Position Paper on EU-US relations&nbsp;calls&nbsp;for a renewed Euro-Atlantic strategy - one that adapts to these changes while&nbsp;maintaining&nbsp;Europe’s values and autonomy.&nbsp;</p><p>In this episode of “EU Decoded,” we discuss the future of EU-US Transatlantic relations and the actions needed.&nbsp; Hear more from MEPs&nbsp;Željana&nbsp;Zovko and Michał Szczerba, with&nbsp;Executive Director Tomi Huhtanen (Martens Centre).</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Over the past few years, the geopolitical landscape has been reshaped.&nbsp;</p><p>The recently published EPP Group Position Paper on EU-US relations&nbsp;calls&nbsp;for a renewed Euro-Atlantic strategy - one that adapts to these changes while&nbsp;maintaining&nbsp;Europe’s values and autonomy.&nbsp;</p><p>In this episode of “EU Decoded,” we discuss the future of EU-US Transatlantic relations and the actions needed.&nbsp; Hear more from MEPs&nbsp;Željana&nbsp;Zovko and Michał Szczerba, with&nbsp;Executive Director Tomi Huhtanen (Martens Centre).</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/bridging-the-atlantic-the-future-of-eu-us-relations]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">9a08d0f2-7aaa-4b62-b0a7-9f88ec0b22dc</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/4dc8f427-4925-44cb-8221-281784bc49ba/fb-podcast-key-4.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 11 Nov 2025 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/9a08d0f2-7aaa-4b62-b0a7-9f88ec0b22dc.mp3" length="42879969" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>29:40</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>7</itunes:season><itunes:episode>5</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>5</podcast:episode><podcast:season>7</podcast:season></item><item><title>The Drone Age: Russia&apos;s War on Europe</title><itunes:title>The Drone Age: Russia&apos;s War on Europe</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">Across Europe, airports are grounding flights, energy networks are tightening security, and defence agencies are on high alert - all because of drones. From Poland to Denmark, incursions are exposing the EU’s vulnerabilities to low-cost attacks. In this episode of “EU Decoded,” we explore how Europe is responding to the rise of aerial threats and whether the new “European Drone Shield Initiative” can keep the skies safe.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">We spoke with Radosław Sikorski, Deputy Prime Minister of Poland; Angelika Niebler, Member of the European Parliament from Germany and a Member of the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy; Pekka Toveri, an MEP from Finland and a Member of the Committee on Security and Defence; and Andrey Novakov, an MEP from Bulgaria, who also serves on the Committee on Security and Defence and led Parliament’s negotiations on a resolution calling for a united response to recent Russian violations of EU Member States’ airspace and critical infrastructure. All three are Members of the EPP Group.&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">Across Europe, airports are grounding flights, energy networks are tightening security, and defence agencies are on high alert - all because of drones. From Poland to Denmark, incursions are exposing the EU’s vulnerabilities to low-cost attacks. In this episode of “EU Decoded,” we explore how Europe is responding to the rise of aerial threats and whether the new “European Drone Shield Initiative” can keep the skies safe.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">We spoke with Radosław Sikorski, Deputy Prime Minister of Poland; Angelika Niebler, Member of the European Parliament from Germany and a Member of the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy; Pekka Toveri, an MEP from Finland and a Member of the Committee on Security and Defence; and Andrey Novakov, an MEP from Bulgaria, who also serves on the Committee on Security and Defence and led Parliament’s negotiations on a resolution calling for a united response to recent Russian violations of EU Member States’ airspace and critical infrastructure. All three are Members of the EPP Group.&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/the-drone-age-russias-war-on-europe]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">ba10eb60-50d2-44f2-adfe-a446814cd44c</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/1b0bb619-faab-44e0-a1c6-8215a1ac6449/fb-podcast-key-3.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 04 Nov 2025 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/ba10eb60-50d2-44f2-adfe-a446814cd44c.mp3" length="33211429" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>22:59</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>7</itunes:season><itunes:episode>4</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>4</podcast:episode><podcast:season>7</podcast:season></item><item><title>Guarding peace, growing trust: What is the EU&apos;s next move?</title><itunes:title>Guarding peace, growing trust: What is the EU&apos;s next move?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Welcome back to “EU Decoded,” the podcast by the EPP Group in the European Parliament. &nbsp;</p><p>Tune in as we discuss topics ranging from how Europe can lead with principle and strength on the global stage to why the EPP Group led the successful rejection of a new Forest Monitoring Law, protecting foresters and the environment from excessive EU bureaucracy.&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Welcome back to “EU Decoded,” the podcast by the EPP Group in the European Parliament. &nbsp;</p><p>Tune in as we discuss topics ranging from how Europe can lead with principle and strength on the global stage to why the EPP Group led the successful rejection of a new Forest Monitoring Law, protecting foresters and the environment from excessive EU bureaucracy.&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/guarding-peace-growing-trust-what-is-the-eus-next-move]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">75eab843-7b16-4c3f-b687-dc789e730f37</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bcb637ee-2257-4ee0-9b8a-179ad82f6135/fb-podcast-key-2.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 24 Oct 2025 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/75eab843-7b16-4c3f-b687-dc789e730f37.mp3" length="14183535" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>09:51</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>7</itunes:season><itunes:episode>3</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>3</podcast:episode><podcast:season>7</podcast:season></item><item><title>Putin’s rehearsal, Europe’s reality</title><itunes:title>Putin’s rehearsal, Europe’s reality</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of “EU Decoded”, we take you inside the latest plenary session of the European Parliament, where Europe’s security, competitiveness, and digital future took centre stage. From defending EU airspace against Russian hybrid threats to strengthening the Schengen area with new visa suspension rules, the EPP Group is calling for action and unity. We also look at efforts to deepen the Single Market by cutting red tape and ensuring one set of rules for all, while advancing Europe’s digital sovereignty under the Digital Markets and Digital Services Acts.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of “EU Decoded”, we take you inside the latest plenary session of the European Parliament, where Europe’s security, competitiveness, and digital future took centre stage. From defending EU airspace against Russian hybrid threats to strengthening the Schengen area with new visa suspension rules, the EPP Group is calling for action and unity. We also look at efforts to deepen the Single Market by cutting red tape and ensuring one set of rules for all, while advancing Europe’s digital sovereignty under the Digital Markets and Digital Services Acts.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/putins-rehearsal-europes-reality]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">39c4ec56-b4f2-4080-8647-06a1aa704c79</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/4cfa7ff2-ac18-437f-85da-01973de7e654/fb-podcast-key-1.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 10 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/39c4ec56-b4f2-4080-8647-06a1aa704c79.mp3" length="23475840" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>09:47</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>7</itunes:season><itunes:episode>2</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>2</podcast:episode><podcast:season>7</podcast:season></item><item><title>The autumn of truth</title><itunes:title>The autumn of truth</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Europe is entering an autumn of truth. In this week’s EU Decoded, we take you inside the State of the European Union address by Ursula von der Leyen, explore the EU’s response to Russian aggression, and examine urgent questions on jobs, trade, and competitiveness. We also look at Moldova’s and Ukraine’s paths toward EU membership, efforts to support Europe’s industries and farmers, and new measures to cut red tape.</p><p>Tune in!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Europe is entering an autumn of truth. In this week’s EU Decoded, we take you inside the State of the European Union address by Ursula von der Leyen, explore the EU’s response to Russian aggression, and examine urgent questions on jobs, trade, and competitiveness. We also look at Moldova’s and Ukraine’s paths toward EU membership, efforts to support Europe’s industries and farmers, and new measures to cut red tape.</p><p>Tune in!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/the-autumn-of-truth]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">be4f72f2-e9c4-410c-9264-a26b4b11027a</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/220226d4-d164-4fa3-b502-4935ff879380/fb-podcast-key.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 12 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/be4f72f2-e9c4-410c-9264-a26b4b11027a.mp3" length="25319040" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>10:33</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>7</itunes:season><itunes:episode>1</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>1</podcast:episode><podcast:season>7</podcast:season></item><item><title>AI and loopholes: Confronting child sexual abuse in Europe</title><itunes:title>AI and loopholes: Confronting child sexual abuse in Europe</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Child sexual abuse is rising, and technology is making it worse. In this episode of <em>EU Decoded</em>, we explore how the European Parliament is responding: from criminalising AI-generated abuse material to abolishing statutes of limitation, strengthening victim support systems, and pushing platforms to do more. Featuring MEPs Jeroen Lenaers and Francois Bellamy, Julie Fuchs from ECPAT International, and Hannah Swirsky from Internet Watch Foundation.&nbsp;</p><p>Don’t miss it!&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Child sexual abuse is rising, and technology is making it worse. In this episode of <em>EU Decoded</em>, we explore how the European Parliament is responding: from criminalising AI-generated abuse material to abolishing statutes of limitation, strengthening victim support systems, and pushing platforms to do more. Featuring MEPs Jeroen Lenaers and Francois Bellamy, Julie Fuchs from ECPAT International, and Hannah Swirsky from Internet Watch Foundation.&nbsp;</p><p>Don’t miss it!&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/ai-and-loopholes-confronting-child-sexual-abuse-in-europe]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">7c5e87d7-5620-4918-b79b-ff333356d04f</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/f5e6e7ee-1d90-403d-be94-2ccffe96d8a4/JiDY0katrXLWLsrf3xoBMW0C.jpg"/><pubDate>Thu, 24 Jul 2025 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/7c5e87d7-5620-4918-b79b-ff333356d04f.mp3" length="27536325" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>19:04</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>6</itunes:season><itunes:episode>24</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>24</podcast:episode><podcast:season>6</podcast:season></item><item><title>Hope for the best, prepare for the worst: NATO Summit in the shadow of war</title><itunes:title>Hope for the best, prepare for the worst: NATO Summit in the shadow of war</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">As the NATO Summit in The Hague approaches, the <em>“EU Decoded”</em> podcast explores how Europe and its allies are responding to growing global threats. With Russia’s war against Ukraine, rising tensions in the Middle East, and shifting dynamics within NATO, MEPs and defence experts from the EPP Group share their insights on the future of collective security, burden-sharing, and transatlantic cooperation.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">You will hear from General Riho Terras, former Commander of the Estonian Defence Forces; General Christophe Gomart, former Director of French Military Intelligence and Special Operations Commander; and Nicolás Pascual de la Parte, former Ambassador of Spain to NATO. All three are now Members of the European Parliament with the EPP Group.&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">As the NATO Summit in The Hague approaches, the <em>“EU Decoded”</em> podcast explores how Europe and its allies are responding to growing global threats. With Russia’s war against Ukraine, rising tensions in the Middle East, and shifting dynamics within NATO, MEPs and defence experts from the EPP Group share their insights on the future of collective security, burden-sharing, and transatlantic cooperation.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">You will hear from General Riho Terras, former Commander of the Estonian Defence Forces; General Christophe Gomart, former Director of French Military Intelligence and Special Operations Commander; and Nicolás Pascual de la Parte, former Ambassador of Spain to NATO. All three are now Members of the European Parliament with the EPP Group.&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/hope-for-the-best-prepare-for-the-worst-nato-summit-in-the-shadow-of-war]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">851a8150-8fc9-4c9d-a7f3-abf5ea9db0cc</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/0a1d05e2-f48f-4925-9d52-eef9b8451765/o5s-aeNKGbSumVrPKpVNUryH.jpg"/><pubDate>Mon, 23 Jun 2025 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/851a8150-8fc9-4c9d-a7f3-abf5ea9db0cc.mp3" length="13563220" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>09:22</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>6</itunes:season><itunes:episode>23</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>23</podcast:episode><podcast:season>6</podcast:season></item><item><title>New EU law to combat child abuse</title><itunes:title>New EU law to combat child abuse</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">In this episode of <em>“EU Decoded,”</em> we unpack another plenary week in the European Parliament - from bold new legislation to fight child sexual abuse, to major debates on defence, democracy, and the future of the EU budget.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">We hear from Jeroen Lenaers on what the new law on combating child abuse means for victims, and how the EU is responding to alarming trends like AI-generated abuse content.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">We also hear from key EPP Group voices on strengthening NATO ties ahead of the upcoming summit, addressing rule of law concerns in Spain, and ensuring the EU budget reflects European - not just national - priorities.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Additionally, we mark 40 years of the Schengen Agreement and its ongoing significance for freedom and security in today’s Europe.<strong>&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>With:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>&nbsp;Jeroen Lenaers&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>&nbsp;Nicolas Pascual de la Parte&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>&nbsp;Michael Gahler&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>&nbsp;Tomas Tobé&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>&nbsp;Dolors Montserrat&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>&nbsp;Manfred Weber&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul><br/><p>Tune in!&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">In this episode of <em>“EU Decoded,”</em> we unpack another plenary week in the European Parliament - from bold new legislation to fight child sexual abuse, to major debates on defence, democracy, and the future of the EU budget.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">We hear from Jeroen Lenaers on what the new law on combating child abuse means for victims, and how the EU is responding to alarming trends like AI-generated abuse content.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">We also hear from key EPP Group voices on strengthening NATO ties ahead of the upcoming summit, addressing rule of law concerns in Spain, and ensuring the EU budget reflects European - not just national - priorities.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Additionally, we mark 40 years of the Schengen Agreement and its ongoing significance for freedom and security in today’s Europe.<strong>&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>With:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>&nbsp;Jeroen Lenaers&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>&nbsp;Nicolas Pascual de la Parte&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>&nbsp;Michael Gahler&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>&nbsp;Tomas Tobé&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>&nbsp;Dolors Montserrat&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>&nbsp;Manfred Weber&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul><br/><p>Tune in!&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/new-eu-law-to-combat-child-abuse]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">c628b174-89af-404f-ae30-9aab68536476</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/a12764db-b27d-4934-8e8b-619963a7dc21/vNdiW7TNj_c9WZGHIKRegURs.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 20 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/c628b174-89af-404f-ae30-9aab68536476.mp3" length="23058240" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>09:36</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>6</itunes:season><itunes:episode>22</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>22</podcast:episode><podcast:season>6</podcast:season></item><item><title>Europe&apos;s new promise: Building a common defence</title><itunes:title>Europe&apos;s new promise: Building a common defence</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>For decades, Europe relied on Transatlantic partnerships to guarantee its security. But the world has changed. With growing global instability and shifting alliances, we must take security into our own hands. In this episode, we delve into how the EPP Group in the European Parliament is spearheading efforts to create a true European Defence Union.&nbsp;</p><p>You'll hear from leading voices in the European Parliament about what’s at stake, what’s being done, and why the time is now for Europe to turn defence into its next great integration project. Because citizens demand safety - and Europe must be ready to deliver.&nbsp;</p><p>Listen to this episode with:&nbsp;</p><ul><li><strong>Manfred Weber, Chairman of the EPP Group</strong>&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Nicolás Pascual de la Parte, EPP Group MEP and former Spanish Ambassador to NATO</strong>&nbsp;</li><li><strong>François-Xavier Bellamy, Head of the French Delegation in the EPP Group</strong>&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Andrzej Halicki, Vice-Chair of the EPP Group and Head of the Polish Delegation in the EPP Group</strong>&nbsp;</li></ul><br/>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>For decades, Europe relied on Transatlantic partnerships to guarantee its security. But the world has changed. With growing global instability and shifting alliances, we must take security into our own hands. In this episode, we delve into how the EPP Group in the European Parliament is spearheading efforts to create a true European Defence Union.&nbsp;</p><p>You'll hear from leading voices in the European Parliament about what’s at stake, what’s being done, and why the time is now for Europe to turn defence into its next great integration project. Because citizens demand safety - and Europe must be ready to deliver.&nbsp;</p><p>Listen to this episode with:&nbsp;</p><ul><li><strong>Manfred Weber, Chairman of the EPP Group</strong>&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Nicolás Pascual de la Parte, EPP Group MEP and former Spanish Ambassador to NATO</strong>&nbsp;</li><li><strong>François-Xavier Bellamy, Head of the French Delegation in the EPP Group</strong>&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Andrzej Halicki, Vice-Chair of the EPP Group and Head of the Polish Delegation in the EPP Group</strong>&nbsp;</li></ul><br/>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/europes-new-promise-building-a-common-defence]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">69cd5f33-865c-4c6a-b3d8-ee465677219e</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/b8bb7b1b-3c44-4b97-ae48-7724325312ae/O6GViUNwaxbvVwRU6I_6-5qu.jpg"/><pubDate>Thu, 12 Jun 2025 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/69cd5f33-865c-4c6a-b3d8-ee465677219e.mp3" length="15835721" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>10:58</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>6</itunes:season><itunes:episode>21</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>21</podcast:episode><podcast:season>6</podcast:season></item><item><title>Facing the Storm: Preparing Europe for the Next Crisis</title><itunes:title>Facing the Storm: Preparing Europe for the Next Crisis</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>The global order is shifting, and the EU is facing many challenges.&nbsp;</p><p>We need to protect citizens by better anticipating, preventing and responding to risks like cyberattacks, sabotage, disinformation and climate change impacts.&nbsp;</p><p>To address these issues, the European Union is rolling out new measures under the Preparedness Union Strategy.&nbsp;</p><p>But what does it actually mean? Can we cope in these challenging times? Will Europe be prepared enough?&nbsp;</p><p>In this episode, MEPs Lena Düpont, Lukas Mandl and Pekka Toveri discuss the actions being taken and what needs to happen to strengthen and better utilise the EU’s capabilities in preparation for any future crisis. &nbsp;</p><p>Tune in and follow the EPP Group on social media for the latest updates on making Europe and its citizens as well-prepared as possible.&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The global order is shifting, and the EU is facing many challenges.&nbsp;</p><p>We need to protect citizens by better anticipating, preventing and responding to risks like cyberattacks, sabotage, disinformation and climate change impacts.&nbsp;</p><p>To address these issues, the European Union is rolling out new measures under the Preparedness Union Strategy.&nbsp;</p><p>But what does it actually mean? Can we cope in these challenging times? Will Europe be prepared enough?&nbsp;</p><p>In this episode, MEPs Lena Düpont, Lukas Mandl and Pekka Toveri discuss the actions being taken and what needs to happen to strengthen and better utilise the EU’s capabilities in preparation for any future crisis. &nbsp;</p><p>Tune in and follow the EPP Group on social media for the latest updates on making Europe and its citizens as well-prepared as possible.&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/facing-the-storm-preparing-europe-for-the-next-crisis]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">95bf7470-952c-46ac-9878-7c7fb72a3f51</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/e48371d2-73fb-4ad7-9871-b8f88d32b0e7/ek5l19TJ3Kfm_zz1EBofWgjw.jpg"/><pubDate>Thu, 05 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/95bf7470-952c-46ac-9878-7c7fb72a3f51.mp3" length="36017715" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>24:57</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>6</itunes:season><itunes:episode>20</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>20</podcast:episode><podcast:season>6</podcast:season></item><item><title>EU–US Trade at Risk: Tariffs and Tensions Across the Atlantic</title><itunes:title>EU–US Trade at Risk: Tariffs and Tensions Across the Atlantic</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">US President Trump has announced plans to impose higher tariffs on imports from the EU. While tariffs are often intended to protect domestic industries, they serve no one - harming consumers on both sides and weakening our shared economic strength.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">President Trump claims the US is being “ripped off” by Europe, despite a broadly balanced EU–US trade relationship. If no agreement is reached within 90 days, the proposed tariffs could significantly reduce EU exports and trigger retaliatory measures from the EU.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Such disputes strain diplomatic ties and risk escalating broader political and economic tensions. Tariffs are often seen as aggressive economic tools that can damage the transatlantic relationship.&nbsp;</p><p>Listen to this episode with:&nbsp;</p><ul><li><strong>Jörgen Warborn,</strong> Member of the European Parliament from Sweden and EPP Group Coordinator on the International Trade Committee.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Željana Zovko</strong>, Member of the European Parliament from Croatia, Vice-Chair of the EPP Group, and EPP Group Shadow Rapporteur for Trade.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Eoin Drea</strong>, Senior Researcher at the Wilfried Martens Centre for European Studies, specialising in Macroeconomic and Social Policy. He is an expert on the political economy of the European Union.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Paul McCarthy</strong>, former Europe Director at the International Republican Institute and now an independent expert on European Politics and Transatlantic Relations, based in the United States.&nbsp;</li></ul><br/>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">US President Trump has announced plans to impose higher tariffs on imports from the EU. While tariffs are often intended to protect domestic industries, they serve no one - harming consumers on both sides and weakening our shared economic strength.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">President Trump claims the US is being “ripped off” by Europe, despite a broadly balanced EU–US trade relationship. If no agreement is reached within 90 days, the proposed tariffs could significantly reduce EU exports and trigger retaliatory measures from the EU.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Such disputes strain diplomatic ties and risk escalating broader political and economic tensions. Tariffs are often seen as aggressive economic tools that can damage the transatlantic relationship.&nbsp;</p><p>Listen to this episode with:&nbsp;</p><ul><li><strong>Jörgen Warborn,</strong> Member of the European Parliament from Sweden and EPP Group Coordinator on the International Trade Committee.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Željana Zovko</strong>, Member of the European Parliament from Croatia, Vice-Chair of the EPP Group, and EPP Group Shadow Rapporteur for Trade.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Eoin Drea</strong>, Senior Researcher at the Wilfried Martens Centre for European Studies, specialising in Macroeconomic and Social Policy. He is an expert on the political economy of the European Union.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Paul McCarthy</strong>, former Europe Director at the International Republican Institute and now an independent expert on European Politics and Transatlantic Relations, based in the United States.&nbsp;</li></ul><br/>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/euus-trade-at-risk-tariffs-and-tensions-across-the-atlantic]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">84036bd2-d058-439a-8a6f-c31d2b53efd4</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/e7d79f81-4387-4214-baa2-948c6ead0a69/V8XFQ_Q8OOb_EzP9wECh6cBF.jpg"/><pubDate>Thu, 22 May 2025 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/84036bd2-d058-439a-8a6f-c31d2b53efd4.mp3" length="32139539" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>22:14</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>6</itunes:season><itunes:episode>19</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>19</podcast:episode><podcast:season>6</podcast:season></item><item><title>Europe’s next steps: Tech ambitions, trade tensions and crisis readiness</title><itunes:title>Europe’s next steps: Tech ambitions, trade tensions and crisis readiness</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of <em>EU Decoded</em>, we take you to Strasbourg for the latest highlights from the European Parliament’s plenary session. Marking 80 years since the end of WWII in Europe, MEPs reflect on the painful lessons of history and reaffirm their commitment to peace, particularly amid Russia’s ongoing aggression in Ukraine. From just and sustainable peace, trade disputes with the U.S., and innovation policy, the EPP Group outlines key strategies for resilience and growth. We also tackle the EU’s long-term budget priorities, the push for transparency in NGO funding, and new support measures for Europe’s car industry. Finally, a major Iberian blackout prompts urgent calls to strengthen Europe’s energy infrastructure. Don’t miss this!&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of <em>EU Decoded</em>, we take you to Strasbourg for the latest highlights from the European Parliament’s plenary session. Marking 80 years since the end of WWII in Europe, MEPs reflect on the painful lessons of history and reaffirm their commitment to peace, particularly amid Russia’s ongoing aggression in Ukraine. From just and sustainable peace, trade disputes with the U.S., and innovation policy, the EPP Group outlines key strategies for resilience and growth. We also tackle the EU’s long-term budget priorities, the push for transparency in NGO funding, and new support measures for Europe’s car industry. Finally, a major Iberian blackout prompts urgent calls to strengthen Europe’s energy infrastructure. Don’t miss this!&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/europes-next-steps-tech-ambitions-trade-tensions-and-crisis-readiness]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">d4905844-80f1-40ad-9548-656571270aed</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/cf618bb9-11ec-4bf0-a153-20843052459a/ge5Npbv_TQ36U6ojM-iDFYtm.jpg"/><pubDate>Thu, 08 May 2025 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/d4905844-80f1-40ad-9548-656571270aed.mp3" length="26116800" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>10:53</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>6</itunes:season><itunes:episode>18</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>18</podcast:episode><podcast:season>6</podcast:season></item><item><title>The legacy of Pope Francis</title><itunes:title>The legacy of Pope Francis</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Pope Francis, the first Pope from South America, passed away on Easter Monday. In this episode of "EU Decoded", we talk about the legacy he leaves behind, and we remember his visit to the European Parliament in Strasbourg in 2014.&nbsp;</p><p>With our guests Željana Zovko MEP, Fr. Manuel Barrios Prieto and Rev. Frank-Dieter Fischbach, we tried to find answers to questions - what kind of Pope do Europe and the world need in the future and what is indeed the extent of Europe's influence on the Catholic Church today?&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in.&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Pope Francis, the first Pope from South America, passed away on Easter Monday. In this episode of "EU Decoded", we talk about the legacy he leaves behind, and we remember his visit to the European Parliament in Strasbourg in 2014.&nbsp;</p><p>With our guests Željana Zovko MEP, Fr. Manuel Barrios Prieto and Rev. Frank-Dieter Fischbach, we tried to find answers to questions - what kind of Pope do Europe and the world need in the future and what is indeed the extent of Europe's influence on the Catholic Church today?&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in.&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/the-legacy-of-pope-francis]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">5021929d-9dbb-4150-9c13-6335bc083957</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/9ab989cf-3257-4fab-9321-8a7311165863/cOp7DwZTOzJkORVQEpuraZW2.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 25 Apr 2025 11:05:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/e353ef02-cce5-4363-8e37-52bb80c415a6/25-04-Pope-Francis-legacy-podcast.mp3" length="85375378" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>35:34</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>6</itunes:season><itunes:episode>17</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>17</podcast:episode><podcast:season>6</podcast:season></item><item><title>Simplify rules, reduce costs – Why Europe’s SMEs can’t wait</title><itunes:title>Simplify rules, reduce costs – Why Europe’s SMEs can’t wait</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of Europe’s economy, making up 99.8% of all companies and providing millions of jobs across the EU. Yet, too often, they are drowning in red tape instead of focusing on growth and innovation.&nbsp;</p><p>In this debut episode of the SME Europe podcast, MEPs Jörgen Warborn, Marion Walsmann, Niels Flemming Hansen, Eva Maydell, and Aura Salla delve into the pressing issues facing Europe’s businesses today.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in for a frank conversation about what needs to change to let SMEs truly thrive in the EU.&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of Europe’s economy, making up 99.8% of all companies and providing millions of jobs across the EU. Yet, too often, they are drowning in red tape instead of focusing on growth and innovation.&nbsp;</p><p>In this debut episode of the SME Europe podcast, MEPs Jörgen Warborn, Marion Walsmann, Niels Flemming Hansen, Eva Maydell, and Aura Salla delve into the pressing issues facing Europe’s businesses today.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in for a frank conversation about what needs to change to let SMEs truly thrive in the EU.&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/simplify-rules-reduce-costs-why-europes-smes-cant-wait]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">17ff9a64-41d0-41f3-a2fe-24d79ab9dbe8</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/23aac0c4-da6b-4045-8f21-05c9449ebc68/4AFXpSUNwk-ZGoSWbwGBrePx.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 15 Apr 2025 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/8bad08c8-afb6-4298-a68f-137d0d46ad6e/SME-Podcast.mp3" length="57561867" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>39:58</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>6</itunes:season><itunes:episode>16</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>16</podcast:episode><podcast:season>6</podcast:season></item><item><title>The battle for European democracy: How to counter hybrid attacks?</title><itunes:title>The battle for European democracy: How to counter hybrid attacks?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>For years, authoritarian actors have attempted to manipulate elections, spread disinformation, and divide our societies.&nbsp;</p><p>To fight back, the European Parliament has set up a Special Committee on the European Democracy Shield, focused on tackling cyberattacks, deepfakes, and online manipulation.&nbsp;</p><p>In this episode MEPs Mika Aaltola, Lena Düpont, and Tomáš Zdechovský discuss how to strengthen the EU’s resilience against hybrid threats while protecting fundamental freedoms - like freedom of speech - in the digital space.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in and follow the EPP Group on social media for the latest updates on securing European democracies.&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>For years, authoritarian actors have attempted to manipulate elections, spread disinformation, and divide our societies.&nbsp;</p><p>To fight back, the European Parliament has set up a Special Committee on the European Democracy Shield, focused on tackling cyberattacks, deepfakes, and online manipulation.&nbsp;</p><p>In this episode MEPs Mika Aaltola, Lena Düpont, and Tomáš Zdechovský discuss how to strengthen the EU’s resilience against hybrid threats while protecting fundamental freedoms - like freedom of speech - in the digital space.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in and follow the EPP Group on social media for the latest updates on securing European democracies.&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/the-battle-for-european-democracy-how-to-counter-hybrid-attacks]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">1043b530-348a-4315-8575-73f6128193cb</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/74ca5359-7cee-481a-8523-cdba30cc1838/9K0YhQyaiTwclKAGBkhpOK3c.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 09 Apr 2025 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/4e0682f6-fa77-4d05-ac58-7a11b5d4e723/EUDS2503.mp3" length="25304258" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>17:33</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>6</itunes:season><itunes:episode>15</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>15</podcast:episode><podcast:season>6</podcast:season></item><item><title>Europe’s big debates: Security, industry, and the economy at a crossroads</title><itunes:title>Europe’s big debates: Security, industry, and the economy at a crossroads</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of EU Decoded, we break down the latest EU policy debates. The Internal Security Strategy is a step forward, but the EPP Group pushes for a European Security Pact to fight cross-border crime. We also cover key industry updates, including flexible CO2 rules for carmakers and support for the European steel industry. Meanwhile, the ‘Stop the Clock’ proposal aims to cut bureaucracy and give businesses breathing space, and trade tensions with the U.S. continue over Trump’s tariffs. Plus, we discuss why Europe needs a Capital Markets Union to keep investments at home. Tune in for all the key takeaways!&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of EU Decoded, we break down the latest EU policy debates. The Internal Security Strategy is a step forward, but the EPP Group pushes for a European Security Pact to fight cross-border crime. We also cover key industry updates, including flexible CO2 rules for carmakers and support for the European steel industry. Meanwhile, the ‘Stop the Clock’ proposal aims to cut bureaucracy and give businesses breathing space, and trade tensions with the U.S. continue over Trump’s tariffs. Plus, we discuss why Europe needs a Capital Markets Union to keep investments at home. Tune in for all the key takeaways!&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/europes-big-debates-security-industry-and-the-economy-at-a-crossroads]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">b443cf6b-db28-45cb-90ea-dfa0a4fb3bb9</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/84adbf83-4d74-4616-b26f-f3113d5bec74/18nMhKkP_qU2DzfItZedkb72.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 04 Apr 2025 08:45:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/03dccdd5-5f11-49e2-b878-1de8f31841b9/EU-Decoded-3-April-2025.mp3" length="22116480" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>09:13</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>6</itunes:season><itunes:episode>14</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>14</podcast:episode><podcast:season>6</podcast:season></item><item><title>Reinforcing EU sanctions against Russia</title><itunes:title>Reinforcing EU sanctions against Russia</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">Russia’s unlawful war on Ukraine threatens both Ukrainian sovereignty and EU stability. A strong response is crucial to defending democracy and security. The EU must tighten sanctions enforcement to counter evasion, with its 16th package remaining key to weakening Russia’s war efforts. Sanctions can be as impactful as military action, and Russia’s economy is struggling, with Putin draining the civilian sector to sustain the war. What more can Europe do to stop Russia's war economy?</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Andrzej Halicki, Vice-Chair of the EPP Group and Chair of the Working Group on External Policies, and Sandra Kalniete, Vice-Chair of the Special Committee on the European Democracy Shield and Member of the Delegation to the EU-Russia Parliamentary Cooperation Committee, have the answer.&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">Russia’s unlawful war on Ukraine threatens both Ukrainian sovereignty and EU stability. A strong response is crucial to defending democracy and security. The EU must tighten sanctions enforcement to counter evasion, with its 16th package remaining key to weakening Russia’s war efforts. Sanctions can be as impactful as military action, and Russia’s economy is struggling, with Putin draining the civilian sector to sustain the war. What more can Europe do to stop Russia's war economy?</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Andrzej Halicki, Vice-Chair of the EPP Group and Chair of the Working Group on External Policies, and Sandra Kalniete, Vice-Chair of the Special Committee on the European Democracy Shield and Member of the Delegation to the EU-Russia Parliamentary Cooperation Committee, have the answer.&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/reinforcing-eu-sanctions-against-russia]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">07672b62-a95a-4697-bd54-4d46977e0ee1</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/8148986a-60ea-4390-a32b-cded21ba6de1/3o1om0aL8kuoFGcM8scZBzUt.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 25 Mar 2025 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/ea67ac79-c76a-426f-b2cc-22bae5366736/podcast-sanctions-v2.mp3" length="21479406" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>14:52</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>6</itunes:season><itunes:episode>13</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>13</podcast:episode><podcast:season>6</podcast:season></item><item><title>Reviving EU competitiveness: What needs to change?</title><itunes:title>Reviving EU competitiveness: What needs to change?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Europe is at a crossroads. Either it takes decisive action to regain its competitive edge or risks falling further&nbsp;behind other major economies. But what needs to change to revive the EU’s competitiveness?&nbsp;</p><p>In this episode, we break down the key ingredients for growth – innovation, productivity, and cutting red tape – to ensure Europe remains a global economic powerhouse.&nbsp;</p><p>MEPs Christian Ehler, Dolors Montserrat, Jörgen&nbsp;Warborn, Eva Maydell,&nbsp;Andreas Schwab, Fernando Navarrete and Andrea Wechsler look at the latest European Commission proposals, such as the&nbsp;Competitiveness Compass, the Omnibus Proposal and the Clean Industrial Deal, and explain the way forward to unlocking Europe’s full potential.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in and follow the EPP Group on social media for the latest updates on Europe’s economic future.&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Europe is at a crossroads. Either it takes decisive action to regain its competitive edge or risks falling further&nbsp;behind other major economies. But what needs to change to revive the EU’s competitiveness?&nbsp;</p><p>In this episode, we break down the key ingredients for growth – innovation, productivity, and cutting red tape – to ensure Europe remains a global economic powerhouse.&nbsp;</p><p>MEPs Christian Ehler, Dolors Montserrat, Jörgen&nbsp;Warborn, Eva Maydell,&nbsp;Andreas Schwab, Fernando Navarrete and Andrea Wechsler look at the latest European Commission proposals, such as the&nbsp;Competitiveness Compass, the Omnibus Proposal and the Clean Industrial Deal, and explain the way forward to unlocking Europe’s full potential.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in and follow the EPP Group on social media for the latest updates on Europe’s economic future.&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/reviving-eu-competitiveness-what-needs-to-change]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">6dd75955-2f7d-414d-88c6-4c76f5205ab0</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/ddb59268-3f5e-4041-9eb7-b10b07ec81f6/TpIre9Im9RafiRyaxN3v8AZc.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 19 Mar 2025 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/96ed2e60-df86-4172-a839-c2a50dced6e3/COMPETITIVENESS-PODCAST.mp3" length="40920228" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>28:19</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>6</itunes:season><itunes:episode>12</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>12</podcast:episode><podcast:season>6</podcast:season></item><item><title>Europe’s Wake-Up Call: Defence, Security, and the Future of the EU</title><itunes:title>Europe’s Wake-Up Call: Defence, Security, and the Future of the EU</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>With war at Europe’s doorstep and a dynamic situation in international affairs, the EU must take control of its own destiny. This week on <em>“EU Decoded,” </em>we examine Europe’s defence ambitions, calls for stricter migration enforcement, and the future of key industries like automotive and agriculture.&nbsp;</p><p>Can Europe protect itself, its economy, and its values in an increasingly unstable world? Join us as we break down the key debates shaping the EU’s next moves.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in and follow the EPP Group on social media for the latest updates!&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>With war at Europe’s doorstep and a dynamic situation in international affairs, the EU must take control of its own destiny. This week on <em>“EU Decoded,” </em>we examine Europe’s defence ambitions, calls for stricter migration enforcement, and the future of key industries like automotive and agriculture.&nbsp;</p><p>Can Europe protect itself, its economy, and its values in an increasingly unstable world? Join us as we break down the key debates shaping the EU’s next moves.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in and follow the EPP Group on social media for the latest updates!&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/europes-wake-up-call-defence-security-and-the-future-of-the-eu]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">cfdef1e4-aa73-4bdf-8990-382ef7ddcd81</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/ecc2bc99-b424-46da-9645-347a6a4289de/Vi6y73mhR0f-Zp0B2vwqxv8d.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 14 Mar 2025 09:15:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/4bea5d5a-b46a-4d1c-aae3-3341861ec055/EU-Decoded-13-03-2025-01.mp3" length="11003642" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>07:38</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>6</itunes:season><itunes:episode>11</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>11</podcast:episode><podcast:season>6</podcast:season></item><item><title>EU defence in a changing world: autonomy, security and NATO’s role</title><itunes:title>EU defence in a changing world: autonomy, security and NATO’s role</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>From the challenges of transatlantic relations and defence spending to the innovations needed in Europe’s defence sector, we explore what it takes to build a stronger, more autonomous EU defence. Our esteemed guests, Nicolás Pascual de la Parte, spokesperson and Coordinator for Security and Defence in the EPP Group and former Spanish Ambassador to NATO, and Alice Teodorescu Måwe, an EPP Group MEP, Swedish lawyer, journalist, and political activist, highlight why collaboration within the EU and with NATO remains essential for ensuring security and stability.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in and follow us on social media 👉🏼 @eppgroup</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>From the challenges of transatlantic relations and defence spending to the innovations needed in Europe’s defence sector, we explore what it takes to build a stronger, more autonomous EU defence. Our esteemed guests, Nicolás Pascual de la Parte, spokesperson and Coordinator for Security and Defence in the EPP Group and former Spanish Ambassador to NATO, and Alice Teodorescu Måwe, an EPP Group MEP, Swedish lawyer, journalist, and political activist, highlight why collaboration within the EU and with NATO remains essential for ensuring security and stability.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in and follow us on social media 👉🏼 @eppgroup</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/eu-defence-in-a-changing-world-autonomy-security-and-natos-role]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">3f7119ee-3b5d-41b2-9951-16aebed0fc97</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/dd2a2cb4-086f-4101-a924-8ba43d97415b/89CrbYiKBmz0B9hRVj8Mq0iw.jpg"/><pubDate>Thu, 06 Mar 2025 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/5a209c5b-fa58-458b-bb3e-a01f79bbfd4e/DEFENCE-PODCAST.mp3" length="29084797" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>20:09</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>6</itunes:season><itunes:episode>10</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>10</podcast:episode><podcast:season>6</podcast:season></item><item><title>Trade, Competitiveness, and Security: What’s Next for Europe?</title><itunes:title>Trade, Competitiveness, and Security: What’s Next for Europe?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Another plenary session is behind us, and we bring you an overview of the week in the latest episode of our “EU Decoded” podcast. Some of the key topics&nbsp;discussed include&nbsp;international trade and tariffs, security, EU competitiveness, the Commission’s Work Programme for 2025 and three&nbsp;years of war in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in to hear more from the EPP Group on the current developments on the EU stage.&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Another plenary session is behind us, and we bring you an overview of the week in the latest episode of our “EU Decoded” podcast. Some of the key topics&nbsp;discussed include&nbsp;international trade and tariffs, security, EU competitiveness, the Commission’s Work Programme for 2025 and three&nbsp;years of war in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in to hear more from the EPP Group on the current developments on the EU stage.&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/trade-competitiveness-and-security-whats-next-for-europe]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">500028e9-8e11-493d-b824-c34491c059c2</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/840e7123-c005-4ab2-a652-2c230d98ffb8/TjCwObecygevbEkMEQgxyqjw.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 14 Feb 2025 09:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/1a525b8d-0705-47f8-b4b5-0974824bfc29/EU-Decoded-13022025-01.mp3" length="13249466" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>09:12</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>6</itunes:season><itunes:episode>9</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>9</podcast:episode><podcast:season>6</podcast:season></item><item><title>Driving Europe’s future: What path lies ahead of European carmakers?</title><itunes:title>Driving Europe’s future: What path lies ahead of European carmakers?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>The automotive industry has long been a cornerstone of Europe’s economy, providing over 13.8 million jobs and contributing significantly to the EU’s GDP. However, the sector now faces unprecedented difficulties - from regulatory pressures and high energy costs to competition from subsidized international players. In this episode we spoke to MEP Jens Gieseke who helped us unpack this complex issue.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in!&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The automotive industry has long been a cornerstone of Europe’s economy, providing over 13.8 million jobs and contributing significantly to the EU’s GDP. However, the sector now faces unprecedented difficulties - from regulatory pressures and high energy costs to competition from subsidized international players. In this episode we spoke to MEP Jens Gieseke who helped us unpack this complex issue.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in!&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/driving-europes-future-what-path-lies-ahead-of-european-carmakers]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">93cda313-6438-4e12-a507-753cbdeb8a99</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/9865a250-f725-4b3a-bd11-f2d7fa3af769/wSHNEXzZHhKB4xlCHwhfjG2M.jpg"/><pubDate>Thu, 30 Jan 2025 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/a7b4e58e-074e-4247-b4b6-eb773d14decf/Gieseke-podcast.mp3" length="17309355" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>11:58</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>6</itunes:season><itunes:episode>8</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>8</podcast:episode><podcast:season>6</podcast:season></item><item><title>Securing the EU&apos;s Future: Digital Regulation, Global Diplomacy and Competitiveness</title><itunes:title>Securing the EU&apos;s Future: Digital Regulation, Global Diplomacy and Competitiveness</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In our first episode of 2025, we discuss the main topics from the latest plenary session: &nbsp;</p><p>🔵 The implications of the DSA for social media platforms&nbsp; &nbsp;</p><p>🔵 The future of EU-US relations &nbsp;</p><p>🔵 The Polish Presidency of the European Council &nbsp;</p><p>🔵 The Russian shadow fleet in the Baltic Sea &nbsp;</p><p>🔵 The critical situation in Venezuela &nbsp;</p><p>🔵 The urgent need to address Europe’s demographic decline &nbsp;</p><p>Tune in and follow us on social media 👉🏼 @eppgroup.&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In our first episode of 2025, we discuss the main topics from the latest plenary session: &nbsp;</p><p>🔵 The implications of the DSA for social media platforms&nbsp; &nbsp;</p><p>🔵 The future of EU-US relations &nbsp;</p><p>🔵 The Polish Presidency of the European Council &nbsp;</p><p>🔵 The Russian shadow fleet in the Baltic Sea &nbsp;</p><p>🔵 The critical situation in Venezuela &nbsp;</p><p>🔵 The urgent need to address Europe’s demographic decline &nbsp;</p><p>Tune in and follow us on social media 👉🏼 @eppgroup.&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/securing-the-eus-future-digital-regulation-global-diplomacy-and-competitiveness]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">04f142dd-fdc9-4fba-9141-f51004c69c87</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/7acedf8c-1e65-43b4-9ee4-438f53c5a6f2/lK1nxgQtFFH8fR8MonYPyHVI.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 24 Jan 2025 09:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/1d9518dd-6e9b-48a9-934d-10ef7afc7b9d/EU-Decoded-23012025-01.mp3" length="13061690" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>09:04</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>6</itunes:season><itunes:episode>7</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>7</podcast:episode><podcast:season>6</podcast:season></item><item><title>Illegal migration in Europe: What&apos;s the situation on the ground?</title><itunes:title>Illegal migration in Europe: What&apos;s the situation on the ground?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Illegal migration is one of Europe’s most pressing challenges, increasingly weaponised to undermine security and stability. In this episode of <em>EU Decoded</em>, the EPP Group delves into the hybrid warfare tactics at the Polish-Belarus border, the role of human traffickers, and the destabilisation attempts across external EU borders. Tune in to understand how Europe can secure its borders, protect vulnerable individuals, and maintain safety for all. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Illegal migration is one of Europe’s most pressing challenges, increasingly weaponised to undermine security and stability. In this episode of <em>EU Decoded</em>, the EPP Group delves into the hybrid warfare tactics at the Polish-Belarus border, the role of human traffickers, and the destabilisation attempts across external EU borders. Tune in to understand how Europe can secure its borders, protect vulnerable individuals, and maintain safety for all. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/illegal-migration-in-europe-whats-the-situation-on-the-ground]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">4ab348ec-507a-46f8-8394-7f6035ce5bcd</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/3c20142c-7889-455f-ab8a-dfb2885b457a/4sgNiVQULfQ3vVN_Y9Gv21L0.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 13 Dec 2024 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/a977bea3-a0cb-4115-93ce-992acee2b508/EU-Decoded-Polish-Belarus-border-01.mp3" length="6344378" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>04:24</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>6</itunes:season><itunes:episode>6</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>6</podcast:episode><podcast:season>6</podcast:season></item><item><title>Plenary wrap-up: The new Commission and 2025 EU budget</title><itunes:title>Plenary wrap-up: The new Commission and 2025 EU budget</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>The new episode of "EU Decoded" brings you an overview of the plenary week as the Parliament focused on approving the new European Commission. Now that the vote is in, it's time to get to work. With the new Commission and the 2025 budget in place, we're reflecting on the EPP Group's priorities for the years ahead. Tune in - don't miss it!&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The new episode of "EU Decoded" brings you an overview of the plenary week as the Parliament focused on approving the new European Commission. Now that the vote is in, it's time to get to work. With the new Commission and the 2025 budget in place, we're reflecting on the EPP Group's priorities for the years ahead. Tune in - don't miss it!&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/plenary-wrap-up-the-new-commission-and-2025-eu-budget]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">c462b52c-4c87-4ff4-826c-0facdd27f6fd</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/62622c77-ede6-47ed-be40-678acb389eea/O0f__ADleGjR_iL3nZoMOpBb.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 29 Nov 2024 11:15:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/55406ca5-f48d-41fd-af06-bece4e2c637e/EU-Decoded-28-Novermbe-2024-01.mp3" length="19071098" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>13:14</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>6</itunes:season><itunes:episode>5</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>5</podcast:episode><podcast:season>6</podcast:season></item><item><title>EU automotive industry at the crossroads: Job losses loom amid growing pressure</title><itunes:title>EU automotive industry at the crossroads: Job losses loom amid growing pressure</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Europe's automotive industry is facing a growing crisis that could lead to the loss of hundreds of thousands of jobs in the sector.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>The EPP Group wants to ensure that driving remains affordable for everyone, not just for those who can afford expensive electric cars. To achieve this, Europe must be driven by economic realism and remain technologically neutral. If we do not, driving will become too costly for many Europeans, and we will lose countless jobs in the automotive industry to competitors like China.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in to our latest episode!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Europe's automotive industry is facing a growing crisis that could lead to the loss of hundreds of thousands of jobs in the sector.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>The EPP Group wants to ensure that driving remains affordable for everyone, not just for those who can afford expensive electric cars. To achieve this, Europe must be driven by economic realism and remain technologically neutral. If we do not, driving will become too costly for many Europeans, and we will lose countless jobs in the automotive industry to competitors like China.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in to our latest episode!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/eu-automotive-industry-at-the-crossroads-job-losses-loom-amid-growing-pressure]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">f2645dcc-f24e-4702-a88a-c3eb9f668c33</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/4c140ced-9827-4b72-9035-ccdcc1566b68/bn0vWQDCLdOB3MsKeBPJtJjf.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 29 Oct 2024 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/e1e41b98-2a55-44ae-8bd4-97f0e225fbfd/automotive-podcast-v2.mp3" length="19053021" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>13:10</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>6</itunes:season><itunes:episode>4</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>4</podcast:episode><podcast:season>6</podcast:season></item><item><title>October II Plenary Wrap-up</title><itunes:title>October II Plenary Wrap-up</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>The latest episode of our podcast is out. This time, we’ve decoded all the key issues discussed at this week’s plenary session:&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Migration &nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Financial help for Ukraine &nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Iran’s state-sponsored terrorism in Europe &nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Rule of law in Malta &nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Steel industry crisis &nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Sakharov Prize winners &nbsp;</p><p>🔵 China’s military provocations around Taiwan</p><p>Don't miss it!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The latest episode of our podcast is out. This time, we’ve decoded all the key issues discussed at this week’s plenary session:&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Migration &nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Financial help for Ukraine &nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Iran’s state-sponsored terrorism in Europe &nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Rule of law in Malta &nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Steel industry crisis &nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Sakharov Prize winners &nbsp;</p><p>🔵 China’s military provocations around Taiwan</p><p>Don't miss it!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/october-ii-plenary-wrap-up]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">f2557127-4dbd-41ca-9999-c6f57f859030</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/993d127a-b161-4892-bcda-8fb780d21ecb/XlDidc3pWlnXh_SGGlFw_1ul.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 25 Oct 2024 11:45:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/8f88f447-9aa0-42a7-ba04-e5d91685c134/Plenary-24-Oktober-2024-01.mp3" length="10790522" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>07:29</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>6</itunes:season><itunes:episode>3</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>3</podcast:episode><podcast:season>6</podcast:season></item><item><title>October I Plenary Wrap-up</title><itunes:title>October I Plenary Wrap-up</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Join us for a wrap-up of this week’s plenary session. We bring you discussions on:&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Viktor Orbán’s controversial visit to the European Parliament&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 The situation in the Middle East&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Problems in the EU’s car industry&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 The housing crisis&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 The impact of internal border controls on the stability of Schengen&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Join us for a wrap-up of this week’s plenary session. We bring you discussions on:&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Viktor Orbán’s controversial visit to the European Parliament&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 The situation in the Middle East&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Problems in the EU’s car industry&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 The housing crisis&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 The impact of internal border controls on the stability of Schengen&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/october-i-plenary-wrap-up]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">686a9d9b-0c0c-463c-b6f1-a5ed319e71bd</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/479c0095-54bd-4c4d-bbbb-2074fc2eac67/KPq76fdlNA8Te5cuMQxuEKQT.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 11 Oct 2024 11:50:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/17f6c130-c312-40a5-8a95-9573434cfa5b/Plenary-Oktober-2024-v2-01.mp3" length="11275514" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>07:50</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>6</itunes:season><itunes:episode>2</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>2</podcast:episode><podcast:season>6</podcast:season></item><item><title>September Plenary Wrap-up</title><itunes:title>September Plenary Wrap-up</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>🔵 Floods in Central Europe&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Migration&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 EU competitiveness&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Military support for Ukraine&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Venezuela’s political turmoil&nbsp;</p><p>These were the topics of the past week in Plenary, and we covered them all in our latest episode. Don't miss it!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>🔵 Floods in Central Europe&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Migration&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 EU competitiveness&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Military support for Ukraine&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Venezuela’s political turmoil&nbsp;</p><p>These were the topics of the past week in Plenary, and we covered them all in our latest episode. Don't miss it!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/september-plenary-wrap-up]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">ba40f99e-7010-4d20-9e38-d544daad92d2</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/5fd9aaeb-98cf-4ce6-a57e-deafa30312f0/4dRAsnfLR9N38er0J9HKjs_M.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 20 Sep 2024 13:20:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/6a5f8610-ec0c-4d9c-8a55-74d55266ac67/Plenary-Podcast-September2024.mp3" length="15642563" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>10:48</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>6</itunes:season><itunes:episode>1</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>1</podcast:episode><podcast:season>6</podcast:season></item><item><title>July Plenary Wrap-up</title><itunes:title>July Plenary Wrap-up</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Building Europe’s defence and support for Ukraine, stepping up border protection, a common European Health Union, help for farmers and stronger regional development are just some of the priorities EPP Group leaders set for the new five-year EU term during the July plenary of the European Parliament. </p><p>Despite a tough election campaign, the Group came out on top in the June European elections, which helped secure another term for both Parliament President Roberta Metsola and Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.  </p><p>Hear more in our Plenary Wrap-up!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Building Europe’s defence and support for Ukraine, stepping up border protection, a common European Health Union, help for farmers and stronger regional development are just some of the priorities EPP Group leaders set for the new five-year EU term during the July plenary of the European Parliament. </p><p>Despite a tough election campaign, the Group came out on top in the June European elections, which helped secure another term for both Parliament President Roberta Metsola and Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.  </p><p>Hear more in our Plenary Wrap-up!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/july-plenary-wrap-up]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">bb981cde-440d-4ccb-9b97-5a27fa8b35ec</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/35fe68f2-a3da-436f-8540-f6a3f13b7b41/cw8fwEv7AgyFM6GyLNORIehN.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jul 2024 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/8edecc5c-791a-444b-8d6e-30217a63e4d9/Podcast-24-07-July-Plenary-Wrap-Up.mp3" length="15134880" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>07:51</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>5</itunes:season><itunes:episode>26</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>26</podcast:episode><podcast:season>5</podcast:season></item><item><title>MEPchat: Digital and green transition - what&apos;s next?</title><itunes:title>MEPchat: Digital and green transition - what&apos;s next?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Europe has taken the lead in regulating AI, setting a precedent for the world. What should be done next?&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in for this episode with MEPs Eva Maydell and Lidia Pereira on AI, innovation and clean technologies.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Europe has taken the lead in regulating AI, setting a precedent for the world. What should be done next?&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in for this episode with MEPs Eva Maydell and Lidia Pereira on AI, innovation and clean technologies.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/mepchat-digital-and-green-transition-whats-next]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">1a52c6ed-78a5-4de1-8bcf-345fe9914687</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/f886e354-4e16-492e-b140-90bea1bfcf41/nJM5LgMfeUbzeI_cK2tx-BbX.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 29 May 2024 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/57a98309-3e7b-4009-b34e-1bc8eb084807/MEPchat-Podcast-9.mp3" length="20295052" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>08:27</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>5</itunes:season><itunes:episode>25</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>25</podcast:episode><podcast:season>5</podcast:season></item><item><title>MEPchat: Will the EU Migration Deal be a game-changer?</title><itunes:title>MEPchat: Will the EU Migration Deal be a game-changer?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Our newest episode delves into the EU migration deal - its challenges, promises and implications.&nbsp;</p><p>MEPs Lena Dupont and Jeroen Lenaers shared their insights during this conversation.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Our newest episode delves into the EU migration deal - its challenges, promises and implications.&nbsp;</p><p>MEPs Lena Dupont and Jeroen Lenaers shared their insights during this conversation.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/mepchat-will-the-eu-migration-deal-be-a-game-changer]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">6af6df5b-f2a9-462e-adc7-9a0530c0cd80</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/94ca0c94-a191-4e76-8581-9a9580bdb255/Dr4iVe7Ec6XN1aYLwfG_jSY6.jpg"/><pubDate>Mon, 27 May 2024 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/d5b0b0d2-1333-40b2-8af0-5b4b144e0d2e/MEPchat-Podcast-8.mp3" length="18818611" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>07:50</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>5</itunes:season><itunes:episode>24</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>24</podcast:episode><podcast:season>5</podcast:season></item><item><title>MEPchat: Energy and security - what can we learn from the crisis and war</title><itunes:title>MEPchat: Energy and security - what can we learn from the crisis and war</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>What does the future hold for Europe in the next five years?&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Former MEP Maria da Graça Carvalho and MEP Rasa Juknevičienė discuss the critical areas of energy, digital innovation and security.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in!</p><p>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>What does the future hold for Europe in the next five years?&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Former MEP Maria da Graça Carvalho and MEP Rasa Juknevičienė discuss the critical areas of energy, digital innovation and security.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in!</p><p>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/mepchat-energy-and-security-what-can-we-learn-from-the-crisis-and-war]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">47c770e7-d366-4291-8bf9-688547320c31</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/5c41b35e-06ef-41c6-b595-319faa6a2198/priBljlzd5TJhZjbVL39Sglw.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 24 May 2024 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/277ef3dc-d948-4f86-8ed0-e115ed9f887f/MEPchat-Podcast-7.mp3" length="20606431" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>08:35</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>5</itunes:season><itunes:episode>23</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>23</podcast:episode><podcast:season>5</podcast:season></item><item><title>MEPchat: EU defence spending - more and smarter</title><itunes:title>MEPchat: EU defence spending - more and smarter</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Geopolitical tensions are rising, from China's assertiveness to Putin's agenda.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in to this episode for a conversation between David McAllister and Tomas Tobe as they discuss navigating the path toward security.&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Geopolitical tensions are rising, from China's assertiveness to Putin's agenda.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in to this episode for a conversation between David McAllister and Tomas Tobe as they discuss navigating the path toward security.&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/mepchat-eu-defence-spending-more-and-smarter]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">104db2bf-b2f6-49f0-aa79-3a4703b1a296</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/d40c5fae-8f66-455b-bb4e-16531327b396/n-AeMlNCXCE3ANpFnPX3oLI9.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 22 May 2024 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/5079233e-544d-4239-8ce3-1c0193cce0a9/MEPchat-Podcast-6.mp3" length="18825925" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>07:51</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>5</itunes:season><itunes:episode>22</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>22</podcast:episode><podcast:season>5</podcast:season></item><item><title>MEPchat: Critical raw materials - why, where, and how to get them?</title><itunes:title>MEPchat: Critical raw materials - why, where, and how to get them?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>If you don't know much about Critical Raw Materials, answer this:&nbsp;</p><p>Do you drive a car? 🚗&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Or use a cell phone? 📱&nbsp;</p><p>If so, then you should know more about the topic.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in to the conversation between Hildegard Bentele and Tom Berendsen.&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>If you don't know much about Critical Raw Materials, answer this:&nbsp;</p><p>Do you drive a car? 🚗&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Or use a cell phone? 📱&nbsp;</p><p>If so, then you should know more about the topic.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in to the conversation between Hildegard Bentele and Tom Berendsen.&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/mepchat-critical-raw-materials-why-where-and-how-to-get-them]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">6869e79f-eb47-4341-bef3-bce903590ce4</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/f663394c-8193-4ac5-8381-11179bdfedca/xZQIuP8kledwxG_nNevi_3Zh.jpg"/><pubDate>Mon, 20 May 2024 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/dcd6e4ac-3135-4a29-bbbc-d579a98148c2/MEPchat-Podcast-5.mp3" length="18579329" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>07:44</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>5</itunes:season><itunes:episode>21</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>21</podcast:episode><podcast:season>5</podcast:season></item><item><title>MEPchat: Cutting red tape and boosting international trade</title><itunes:title>MEPchat: Cutting red tape and boosting international trade</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>If you want to know more about:&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 The EU’s business environment&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 The EU’s international trade&nbsp;</p><p>... then you cannot miss this new podcast episode with Martine Kemp and Jorgen Warborn. </p><p>Tune in!</p><p>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>If you want to know more about:&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 The EU’s business environment&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 The EU’s international trade&nbsp;</p><p>... then you cannot miss this new podcast episode with Martine Kemp and Jorgen Warborn. </p><p>Tune in!</p><p>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/mepchat-cutting-red-tape-and-boosting-international-trade]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">9467df1f-3fa2-498b-a857-f1f2a5ac8c36</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/395b4a73-aa2a-4975-aa55-c3ed56006e86/-fXWDqsp4LLGrWw05U5sLLhO.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 17 May 2024 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/a9794c77-cfa3-4cc3-8d8a-1d3cde0b55b9/MEPchat-Podcast-4.mp3" length="18256456" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>07:36</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>5</itunes:season><itunes:episode>20</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>20</podcast:episode><podcast:season>5</podcast:season></item><item><title>MEPchat: Why do we need a European health union?</title><itunes:title>MEPchat: Why do we need a European health union?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>It’s time to talk about health.&nbsp;</p><p>Join @peterliese and @TomislavSokol for an in-depth conversation on:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>European Health Union&nbsp;</li><li>Medicine shortages&nbsp;</li><li>Cancer and cardiovascular diseases&nbsp;</li></ul><br/><p>Don't miss it!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>It’s time to talk about health.&nbsp;</p><p>Join @peterliese and @TomislavSokol for an in-depth conversation on:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>European Health Union&nbsp;</li><li>Medicine shortages&nbsp;</li><li>Cancer and cardiovascular diseases&nbsp;</li></ul><br/><p>Don't miss it!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/mepchat-why-do-we-need-a-european-health-union]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">9dddca44-b0c4-484b-9947-d722e4167cfa</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/4cf65e43-f43c-4e6d-8f0f-88e9e58571c2/4W4acUq1uOSXrdbQ5AgCYoYk.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 14 May 2024 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/6890d7e1-0758-42be-a55d-3b94b2df3d5c/MEPchat-Podcast-3.mp3" length="18732929" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>07:48</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>5</itunes:season><itunes:episode>19</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>19</podcast:episode><podcast:season>5</podcast:season></item><item><title>MEPchat: Press freedom, mental health and combating hate speech</title><itunes:title>MEPchat: Press freedom, mental health and combating hate speech</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Get ready for a great conversation between Maria Walsh and Magdalena Adamowicz in this episode of our MEPchat series!&nbsp;</p><p>They discussed pressing issues - from mental health awareness to media freedom; they tackled it all.&nbsp;</p><p>Don't miss out!</p><p>*This episode was originally recorded in February as a part of a video series. Watch the whole series on our YouTube channel.</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Get ready for a great conversation between Maria Walsh and Magdalena Adamowicz in this episode of our MEPchat series!&nbsp;</p><p>They discussed pressing issues - from mental health awareness to media freedom; they tackled it all.&nbsp;</p><p>Don't miss out!</p><p>*This episode was originally recorded in February as a part of a video series. Watch the whole series on our YouTube channel.</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/mepchat-press-freedom-mental-health-and-combating-hate-speech]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">42543028-14cd-45df-97ed-66537e836b6a</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/6c47672c-624b-4d39-81ba-91ab4dd9b312/_wDHKpDql7BPFBSqN2MYNbIG.jpg"/><pubDate>Mon, 13 May 2024 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/94ee388c-5818-4c41-b04f-82491630d3dc/MEPchat-Podcast-2.mp3" length="18233468" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>07:36</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>5</itunes:season><itunes:episode>18</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>18</podcast:episode><podcast:season>5</podcast:season><podcast:alternateEnclosure type="video/youtube" title="MEPCHAT Episode 2: Maria Walsh &amp; Magdalena Adamowicz"><podcast:source uri="https://youtu.be/5nO7FX9WuFE"/></podcast:alternateEnclosure></item><item><title>MEPchat: EU budget, cohesion and Schengen expansion</title><itunes:title>MEPchat: EU budget, cohesion and Schengen expansion</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In the first episode of our MEPchat series, Siegfried Muresan and Andrey Novakov discussed the following topics:&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Recovery and Resilience Facility&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Cohesion Policy&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 a bigger EU budget&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Schengen expansion&nbsp;</p><p>This episode was originally recorded in February as a part of a video series. Watch the whole series on our YouTube channel. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In the first episode of our MEPchat series, Siegfried Muresan and Andrey Novakov discussed the following topics:&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Recovery and Resilience Facility&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Cohesion Policy&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 a bigger EU budget&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>🔵 Schengen expansion&nbsp;</p><p>This episode was originally recorded in February as a part of a video series. Watch the whole series on our YouTube channel. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/mepchat-eu-budget-cohesion-and-schengen-expansion]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">acb69a11-8ef6-4da7-b31b-4c85946ad880</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/8044d4db-2500-4558-aa97-20d5ab38fe52/1Qd7K04egEYlkWcFUbKvlwm5.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 10 May 2024 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/44389bb9-12ab-484c-8e33-4880978e808c/MEPchat-Podcast-1.mp3" length="18977435" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>07:54</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>5</itunes:season><itunes:episode>17</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>17</podcast:episode><podcast:season>5</podcast:season><podcast:alternateEnclosure type="video/youtube" title="MEPCHAT Episode 1: Siegfried Mureșan and Andrey Novakov"><podcast:source uri="https://youtu.be/uctTkZo7DLU"/></podcast:alternateEnclosure></item><item><title>Support Belarus’ political prisoners, pressure the Lukashenko regime!</title><itunes:title>Support Belarus’ political prisoners, pressure the Lukashenko regime!</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>EPP Group Parliamentarians joined Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya in calling for more opposition support and more pressure on the Lukashenko regime.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>In this podcast, we look at how the European Parliament event highlighted the plight of over 1,500 political prisoners in Belarus. These include Nobel Peace Laureate Ales Bialiatski and Tsikhanouskaya's husband, Sergei.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>We also speak with a Belarusian youth who, like many others, fled twice: from Belarus to Ukraine, then to the EU because of the Russian invasion.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>EPP Group Parliamentarians joined Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya in calling for more opposition support and more pressure on the Lukashenko regime.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>In this podcast, we look at how the European Parliament event highlighted the plight of over 1,500 political prisoners in Belarus. These include Nobel Peace Laureate Ales Bialiatski and Tsikhanouskaya's husband, Sergei.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>We also speak with a Belarusian youth who, like many others, fled twice: from Belarus to Ukraine, then to the EU because of the Russian invasion.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/support-belarus-political-prisoners-pressure-the-lukashenko-regime]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">e344309b-ca23-4c88-8c2a-bb91e108a7f2</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/e90d7818-b58c-40a3-aed8-7ba3034c4141/av08vzhMQsP-GGm_IQun0EiR.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 07 May 2024 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/da935420-6076-4ec5-81ce-6380575ca990/Belarus-Opposition-Podcast-with-jingle-01.mp3" length="22001651" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>15:11</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>5</itunes:season><itunes:episode>16</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>16</podcast:episode><podcast:season>5</podcast:season></item><item><title>End violence against women: Mobilising all EU countries in the fight</title><itunes:title>End violence against women: Mobilising all EU countries in the fight</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Figures on violence against women are shocking. Every day, two women are killed at the hands of a partner or family member in the EU, and sexual harassment affects one in two women.&nbsp;</p><p>In this episode of our "A Europe that Protects You" series, we delve deeper into the decisive steps the EU is taking to combat this pervasive issue.&nbsp;</p><p>We believe that criminalising gender-based violence everywhere in Europe, and to the same standards, is the first step towards this goal.&nbsp;</p><p>Hear from MEPs Frances Fitzgerald, Arba Kokalari, Elissavet Vozemberg, and Javier Zarzalejos, who spearheaded the EPP Group's efforts on this front, as they share valuable insights.&nbsp;</p><p>Additionally, activist Iliana Balabanova, President of the European Women's Lobby, sheds light on the current landscape across the EU. She also discusses the significance of recent milestones, including the EU's accession to the Istanbul Convention and the Directive on Combating Violence Against Women.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in to learn more about our mission to build a safer European Union for everyone.&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Figures on violence against women are shocking. Every day, two women are killed at the hands of a partner or family member in the EU, and sexual harassment affects one in two women.&nbsp;</p><p>In this episode of our "A Europe that Protects You" series, we delve deeper into the decisive steps the EU is taking to combat this pervasive issue.&nbsp;</p><p>We believe that criminalising gender-based violence everywhere in Europe, and to the same standards, is the first step towards this goal.&nbsp;</p><p>Hear from MEPs Frances Fitzgerald, Arba Kokalari, Elissavet Vozemberg, and Javier Zarzalejos, who spearheaded the EPP Group's efforts on this front, as they share valuable insights.&nbsp;</p><p>Additionally, activist Iliana Balabanova, President of the European Women's Lobby, sheds light on the current landscape across the EU. She also discusses the significance of recent milestones, including the EU's accession to the Istanbul Convention and the Directive on Combating Violence Against Women.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in to learn more about our mission to build a safer European Union for everyone.&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/end-violence-against-women-mobilising-all-eu-countries-in-the-fight]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">4533af75-e800-496c-a196-61102ee50852</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/02145979-df68-40c3-8483-8d468e943fcd/F6Iv3J7_CFXqBUVGqC1Ly95b.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 30 Apr 2024 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/3c1dbeb0-9560-4258-880d-2352633fd3d5/End-Violence-against-Women-Podcast-preview2.mp3" length="45248640" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>18:51</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>5</itunes:season><itunes:episode>15</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>15</podcast:episode><podcast:season>5</podcast:season></item><item><title>Business and Trade: Navigating the EU&apos;s Growth Engines</title><itunes:title>Business and Trade: Navigating the EU&apos;s Growth Engines</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">With the EU accounting for 14% of global trade in goods and around 38 million jobs in Europe depending on European exports, the importance of international trade cannot be overstated. </p><p class="ql-align-justify">In this episode of the EPP Group podcast series ‘<strong>A Europe that Protects You,’</strong> we look at global trade's impact on the EU regarding innovation, competitiveness and job opportunities. In this episode, however, we not only examine the effects of international trade on the EU, but also examine the EU's impact on international trade. </p><p class="ql-align-justify">This is done through its smart trading agreements, which continue to set global benchmarks for environmental, social and health standards.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">With the EU accounting for 14% of global trade in goods and around 38 million jobs in Europe depending on European exports, the importance of international trade cannot be overstated. </p><p class="ql-align-justify">In this episode of the EPP Group podcast series ‘<strong>A Europe that Protects You,’</strong> we look at global trade's impact on the EU regarding innovation, competitiveness and job opportunities. In this episode, however, we not only examine the effects of international trade on the EU, but also examine the EU's impact on international trade. </p><p class="ql-align-justify">This is done through its smart trading agreements, which continue to set global benchmarks for environmental, social and health standards.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/business-and-trade-navigating-the-eus-growth-engines]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">fc8f0081-fbff-4111-a1ab-61212b3c8c71</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/59d116f9-b01c-4e42-82c4-617fae2422fb/Dd6Bwg-7PFBsGDXWRV4wFjM0.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 16 Apr 2024 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/ff391d74-bbfa-44e8-b6c3-b035386f828f/Trade-SME-podcast.mp3" length="49887360" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>20:47</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>5</itunes:season><itunes:episode>14</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>14</podcast:episode><podcast:season>5</podcast:season></item><item><title>Market Harmony: Building a Social Economy in the EU</title><itunes:title>Market Harmony: Building a Social Economy in the EU</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Over 70% of businesses in the EU lack staff with adequate digital skills, which hinders investment.&nbsp;</p><p>How can we fix the imbalance between unemployment, job vacancies and the skills needed to fill them? The first step towards bridging this gap is to offer further training programs for our workforce. Upskilling and lifelong learning are key parts of this transformation.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>In this episode of the EPP Group podcast series “A Europe that Protects its People”, we discuss our vision of a Europe that works for everyone while ensuring EU competitiveness.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Hear more from our MEPs Axel Voss, Andreas Schwab, Dennis Radtke, Maria Walsh and Žiga Turk, Professor at the University of Ljubljana.&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Over 70% of businesses in the EU lack staff with adequate digital skills, which hinders investment.&nbsp;</p><p>How can we fix the imbalance between unemployment, job vacancies and the skills needed to fill them? The first step towards bridging this gap is to offer further training programs for our workforce. Upskilling and lifelong learning are key parts of this transformation.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>In this episode of the EPP Group podcast series “A Europe that Protects its People”, we discuss our vision of a Europe that works for everyone while ensuring EU competitiveness.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Hear more from our MEPs Axel Voss, Andreas Schwab, Dennis Radtke, Maria Walsh and Žiga Turk, Professor at the University of Ljubljana.&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/market-harmony-building-a-social-economy-in-the-eu]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">172f58f5-3d26-4ae1-ae29-a7bcca272911</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/cb9f02b2-536f-4a45-9122-062e4ce574d5/rqwXgyVDuMxoz-SpKt4ANobb.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 09 Apr 2024 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/23c8ba5b-e772-4bf6-95cd-b0e03abe14eb/Social-Market-Economy-Podcast.mp3" length="32017920" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>13:20</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>5</itunes:season><itunes:episode>13</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>13</podcast:episode><podcast:season>5</podcast:season></item><item><title>Empowering the EU: Championing a European Health Union</title><itunes:title>Empowering the EU: Championing a European Health Union</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">Healthcare is a key concern across the EU27. In fact, two out of three Europeans would like to see a common European Health Union, according to a Eurostat survey. This would ensure quality care for all Europeans.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">In this episode of our "A Europe that Protects You" series, we delve into the major achievements of this legislative term and the EPP Group's unwavering commitment to keeping health at the top of the EU's agenda in the upcoming Parliamentary mandate.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">MEPs Tomislav Sokol, Dolores Montserrat, Peter Liese, Adam Jarubas, Maria Walsh and Maria da Graça Carvalho guide us through the Group's strategic vision to build a true European Health Union.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">In addition, Dr Fatima Cardoso, Director of the Breast Cancer Unit at Champalimaud Clinical Center in Lisbon and member of the initiative Transforming Breast Cancer Together, sheds light on the needs of patients and carers.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Tune in to learn more about the future of healthcare in Europe.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">Healthcare is a key concern across the EU27. In fact, two out of three Europeans would like to see a common European Health Union, according to a Eurostat survey. This would ensure quality care for all Europeans.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">In this episode of our "A Europe that Protects You" series, we delve into the major achievements of this legislative term and the EPP Group's unwavering commitment to keeping health at the top of the EU's agenda in the upcoming Parliamentary mandate.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">MEPs Tomislav Sokol, Dolores Montserrat, Peter Liese, Adam Jarubas, Maria Walsh and Maria da Graça Carvalho guide us through the Group's strategic vision to build a true European Health Union.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">In addition, Dr Fatima Cardoso, Director of the Breast Cancer Unit at Champalimaud Clinical Center in Lisbon and member of the initiative Transforming Breast Cancer Together, sheds light on the needs of patients and carers.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Tune in to learn more about the future of healthcare in Europe.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/empowering-the-eu-championing-a-european-health-union]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">7cf676c4-c14a-44e5-b7f6-84cb48119d15</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/2142d54c-2b3a-4830-adf0-2e34630c1516/z7a9EJzLNjbJtLBh1UP64sr4.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 02 Apr 2024 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/759a3e5d-7a98-4edc-b358-4b0bf244a608/Health-Podcast.mp3" length="61646400" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>25:41</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>5</itunes:season><itunes:episode>12</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>12</podcast:episode><podcast:season>5</podcast:season></item><item><title>Organised crime and its €139 billion damage to the EU</title><itunes:title>Organised crime and its €139 billion damage to the EU</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">How to combat organised crime in the EU?&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Organised crime is a major threat to the internal security of the European Union and Europeans.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">In 2019, criminal activities like drug trafficking, human smuggling and cybercrime cost the EU a staggering €139 billion. The EPP Group proposes a targeted strategy to 'follow the money' – freezing and confiscating criminal assets to hit organised crime where it hurts.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">With over 5,000 organised crime groups operating in the EU, we want to equip Europol with sufficient resources to tackle terrorism, human trafficking and drug smuggling on the ground. The Agency should be given an extended operational role and become an operational 'Police Force' on the ground.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Every seized drug shipment and every disrupted criminal network brings us closer to a safer Europe.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">With guests: Lena Düpont, Tomas Tobé, Vincze Loránt, Javier Zarzalejos and Europol Spokesperson, Jan Op Gen Oorth.</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">Listen now!</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">How to combat organised crime in the EU?&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Organised crime is a major threat to the internal security of the European Union and Europeans.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">In 2019, criminal activities like drug trafficking, human smuggling and cybercrime cost the EU a staggering €139 billion. The EPP Group proposes a targeted strategy to 'follow the money' – freezing and confiscating criminal assets to hit organised crime where it hurts.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">With over 5,000 organised crime groups operating in the EU, we want to equip Europol with sufficient resources to tackle terrorism, human trafficking and drug smuggling on the ground. The Agency should be given an extended operational role and become an operational 'Police Force' on the ground.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Every seized drug shipment and every disrupted criminal network brings us closer to a safer Europe.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">With guests: Lena Düpont, Tomas Tobé, Vincze Loránt, Javier Zarzalejos and Europol Spokesperson, Jan Op Gen Oorth.</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">Listen now!</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/organised-crime-and-its-139-billion-damage-to-the-eu]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">6a8dde47-719d-4aec-87cf-71360bd55f64</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/db4547cc-bf7e-4dc3-ae42-a917962ecc2f/5AvijnacgSV9nq2lAAbPTv9o.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 26 Mar 2024 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/41250972-f4ad-4b48-a6d5-9f7b3b5661f4/Organised-Crime-podcast.mp3" length="41470080" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>17:17</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>5</itunes:season><itunes:episode>11</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>11</podcast:episode><podcast:season>5</podcast:season></item><item><title>Beyond the grid: Securing the future of EU energy</title><itunes:title>Beyond the grid: Securing the future of EU energy</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Higher energy prices squeeze both consumers and businesses. This is due to a green transition toward renewable energy, and a drive toward an EU Energy Union with more dependable supplies from home and abroad. </p><p>In this episode of the EPP Group podcast series ‘’A Europe that protects its people,’’ we talk to some key players in the European Parliament. They are helping shape Europe’s energy future aimed at securing affordable, renewable and reliable energy supplies. </p><p>We look at the growing role of hydrogen, especially for energy-intensive industries, and the need for a more integrated energy grid across the EU27 to build a strong European Energy Union resistant to global and regional shocks.&nbsp;</p><p>Don't miss it!</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Higher energy prices squeeze both consumers and businesses. This is due to a green transition toward renewable energy, and a drive toward an EU Energy Union with more dependable supplies from home and abroad. </p><p>In this episode of the EPP Group podcast series ‘’A Europe that protects its people,’’ we talk to some key players in the European Parliament. They are helping shape Europe’s energy future aimed at securing affordable, renewable and reliable energy supplies. </p><p>We look at the growing role of hydrogen, especially for energy-intensive industries, and the need for a more integrated energy grid across the EU27 to build a strong European Energy Union resistant to global and regional shocks.&nbsp;</p><p>Don't miss it!</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/beyond-the-grid-securing-the-future-of-eu-energy]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">4e8f7e3a-bece-47e0-83f2-2cbd1c57ade1</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/1df8122d-1e1f-43f3-9d8a-563be56f29c1/iIxMMJNKjQ7yNv12YD84vLfJ.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 19 Mar 2024 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/a5125e57-1188-4ba4-9e0b-64302a3228e7/Energy-and-CRM-podcast-v2-01.mp3" length="28194356" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>19:34</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>5</itunes:season><itunes:episode>10</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>10</podcast:episode><podcast:season>5</podcast:season></item><item><title>Winds of Change: The New Era in Migration and Asylum</title><itunes:title>Winds of Change: The New Era in Migration and Asylum</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">More than 300.000 people crossed European borders illegally in 2022. &nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Member States' reception capacities are at their limits, and serious action is needed. &nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">In our latest episode, we discussed the European migration crisis and the benefits of the newly adopted Pact on Migration and Asylum. We also discussed the grim reality of migrant smuggling. &nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">With MEPs Tomas Tobé, Lena Düpont, Paulo Rangel, Rasa Juknevičienė, Henna Virkkunen and Dr Lars Gerdes, Frontex Deputy Executive Director for Return and Operations.&nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Don't miss it!&nbsp;</p><br>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">More than 300.000 people crossed European borders illegally in 2022. &nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Member States' reception capacities are at their limits, and serious action is needed. &nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">In our latest episode, we discussed the European migration crisis and the benefits of the newly adopted Pact on Migration and Asylum. We also discussed the grim reality of migrant smuggling. &nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">With MEPs Tomas Tobé, Lena Düpont, Paulo Rangel, Rasa Juknevičienė, Henna Virkkunen and Dr Lars Gerdes, Frontex Deputy Executive Director for Return and Operations.&nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Don't miss it!&nbsp;</p><br>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/winds-of-change-the-new-era-in-migration-and-asylum]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">00cafeb4-63cc-40b2-be6d-fd6ba476b289</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/9aec6b8f-466a-4f79-94bc-7d2d865afee8/muoxhx-PUHMnfeKOUOwZqF02.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 05 Mar 2024 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/c9d22130-4f5a-4ac1-89d3-9cded9387deb/Migration-podcast-01.mp3" length="20319860" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>14:06</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>5</itunes:season><itunes:episode>9</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>9</podcast:episode><podcast:season>5</podcast:season></item><item><title>COP28: Can the world match the EU&apos;s ambition on climate?</title><itunes:title>COP28: Can the world match the EU&apos;s ambition on climate?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>We are only a few days away from the beginning of the COP28 in Dubai where the EU arrives leading the fight against climate change with over 30 laws that aim pushing us closer to achieving the Paris Agreement goals.</p><p>But as it was said many times before, Europe can't do it all on its own. We need others to step up, mainly USA, India and China.</p><p>Tune in to our latest episode with MEPs Lidia Pereira and Peter Liese, and EU's Climate Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra.</p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: h<a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ttps://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>We are only a few days away from the beginning of the COP28 in Dubai where the EU arrives leading the fight against climate change with over 30 laws that aim pushing us closer to achieving the Paris Agreement goals.</p><p>But as it was said many times before, Europe can't do it all on its own. We need others to step up, mainly USA, India and China.</p><p>Tune in to our latest episode with MEPs Lidia Pereira and Peter Liese, and EU's Climate Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra.</p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: h<a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ttps://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/cop28-can-the-world-match-the-eus-ambition-on-climate]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">951f7337-53ad-4046-8eca-6d8745d5f4a4</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/7a256605-8b5f-4ad4-a5fd-2b6512d90aef/sc3eTUearK2yG355eWaaGS64.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 28 Nov 2023 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/4f97ad2b-b535-48f0-ac5c-908eb9dfa144/Podcast-COP28.mp3" length="15981770" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>11:03</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>5</itunes:season><itunes:episode>8</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>8</podcast:episode><podcast:season>5</podcast:season></item><item><title>What do the younger generations want from the EU?</title><itunes:title>What do the younger generations want from the EU?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Almost 800 young people from all corners of Europe gathered in Brussels for EPP Group Youth Week. They attended topical workshops with experts and debated with MEPs and European Commissioners. They eventually suggested their own campaign on a topic they found crucial at the EU level. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>We spent some time with them and asked them what they see as the most significant issues in the EU. We also asked what changes they would like to see. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>From fantastic ideas about&nbsp;the future to a marriage proposal in the Hemicycle of the European Parliament - we've seen it all this week. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Tune in to our latest episode and hear what the younger generations want from the EU. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>If you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media. Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Almost 800 young people from all corners of Europe gathered in Brussels for EPP Group Youth Week. They attended topical workshops with experts and debated with MEPs and European Commissioners. They eventually suggested their own campaign on a topic they found crucial at the EU level. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>We spent some time with them and asked them what they see as the most significant issues in the EU. We also asked what changes they would like to see. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>From fantastic ideas about&nbsp;the future to a marriage proposal in the Hemicycle of the European Parliament - we've seen it all this week. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Tune in to our latest episode and hear what the younger generations want from the EU. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>If you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media. Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/what-do-the-younger-generations-want-from-the-eu]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">c1b7fba0-3d23-4574-bf99-ae6e93d897d6</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/7039953f-5390-4ccf-98a9-edd6d2c971cd/Fx65eomi3rg-pCnT1OXsFDoE.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 07 Nov 2023 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/8a779e0a-f53c-4688-82d6-ec031731e7d2/PODCAST-EPP4YOUTH-2023-SECOND-AUDIO-DRAFT.mp3" length="32680369" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>33:56</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>5</itunes:season><itunes:episode>7</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>7</podcast:episode><podcast:season>5</podcast:season></item><item><title>The EU Migration and Asylum Pact: What is it really about?</title><itunes:title>The EU Migration and Asylum Pact: What is it really about?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Irregular entries into the European Union rose about 20% in the first eight months of this year to over 230.000. Within that number the crossings across the central Mediterranean nearly doubled. The UN International Organization for migration lists 2800 dead or missing, mostly in the central Mediterranean so far this year.</p><p>The situation is, obviously, very serious and we need a solution.</p><p>In our latest episode we talked to MEPs Lena Dupont and Jeroen Lenaers about the EU Migration and Asylum Pact.</p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p>And if you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please contact us via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Irregular entries into the European Union rose about 20% in the first eight months of this year to over 230.000. Within that number the crossings across the central Mediterranean nearly doubled. The UN International Organization for migration lists 2800 dead or missing, mostly in the central Mediterranean so far this year.</p><p>The situation is, obviously, very serious and we need a solution.</p><p>In our latest episode we talked to MEPs Lena Dupont and Jeroen Lenaers about the EU Migration and Asylum Pact.</p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p>And if you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please contact us via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/the-eu-migration-and-asylum-pact-what-is-it-really-about]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">cd0ee25f-1767-4420-8d3e-5e7dbbc92919</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/ee371158-18d0-4d89-9cba-dbdf184b5e86/H6WaemFDExfx6ddYXFO4wQNG.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 24 Oct 2023 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/81ba3f67-cc29-4c09-b60c-9d4a185a1a86/Migrations-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="36017593" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>25:00</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>5</itunes:season><itunes:episode>6</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>6</podcast:episode><podcast:season>5</podcast:season></item><item><title>Changes to EU Treaties: Why are they needed and what will they bring?</title><itunes:title>Changes to EU Treaties: Why are they needed and what will they bring?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>How can we make the EU function better? How can we make sure it will be able to take action more decisively on the challenges we face today? Is adapting the Treaties the answer? In which way?</p><p>In our latest episode we talked to MEP Sven Simon of European Parliament's Committee on Constitutional Affairs on these topics.</p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p>And if you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please contact us via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>How can we make the EU function better? How can we make sure it will be able to take action more decisively on the challenges we face today? Is adapting the Treaties the answer? In which way?</p><p>In our latest episode we talked to MEP Sven Simon of European Parliament's Committee on Constitutional Affairs on these topics.</p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p>And if you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please contact us via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/changes-to-eu-treaties-why-are-they-needed-and-what-will-they-bring]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">352bd4bd-f465-4951-a0d2-dd6b73b80719</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/a2f81694-452f-4d01-b6cd-4e5a5d0cfbad/jXvP1RzGlcMQ2ocVtigU9b2Y.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 17 Oct 2023 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/cda297b1-c56f-4079-8534-bb92294241ab/Treaties-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="25317237" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>17:35</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>5</itunes:season><itunes:episode>5</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>5</podcast:episode><podcast:season>5</podcast:season></item><item><title>What&apos;s next for EU&apos;s long-term budget?</title><itunes:title>What&apos;s next for EU&apos;s long-term budget?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>The European Union needs 10 billion euros more in emergency spending for Europe's recovery from the pandemic, strategic autonomy, the Ukraine war, migration and natural disasters, say EPP Group MEPs in this episode. </p><p>The funding is to expand on the European Commission's nearly 66 billion-euro proposed top-up of the EU's budget through 2027. Recent fires, floods, a migration crisis have compounded the EU's challenges, and the additional support for Ukraine is needed before existing funding runs out at the end of the year. </p><p><br></p><p>The EU27 leaders in the European Council will need to approve the extra funding, which MEP Jan Olbrycht of Poland calls "ambitious" and "realistic".  </p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss this episode!</p><p><br></p><p>If you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please contact us via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The European Union needs 10 billion euros more in emergency spending for Europe's recovery from the pandemic, strategic autonomy, the Ukraine war, migration and natural disasters, say EPP Group MEPs in this episode. </p><p>The funding is to expand on the European Commission's nearly 66 billion-euro proposed top-up of the EU's budget through 2027. Recent fires, floods, a migration crisis have compounded the EU's challenges, and the additional support for Ukraine is needed before existing funding runs out at the end of the year. </p><p><br></p><p>The EU27 leaders in the European Council will need to approve the extra funding, which MEP Jan Olbrycht of Poland calls "ambitious" and "realistic".  </p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss this episode!</p><p><br></p><p>If you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please contact us via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/whats-next-for-eus-long-term-budget]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">88de0e8e-2e71-4f97-8b18-f2cf1d883416</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/49be2d69-fa35-4444-b568-f4da2f994926/RUXT94vetzxS9kN9UOsfhc9d.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 10 Oct 2023 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/ab466970-a149-4fb6-b374-cd569e7c4515/Podcast-MFF-mixdown.mp3" length="25174955" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>17:29</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>5</itunes:season><itunes:episode>4</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>4</podcast:episode><podcast:season>5</podcast:season></item><item><title>Sport, politics and propaganda: Olympics 2024 amidst the Russian war</title><itunes:title>Sport, politics and propaganda: Olympics 2024 amidst the Russian war</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>With close links to Putin’s war machine, Russian and Belarusian athletes should be barred from the Paris Olympics next year, say former star athletes and EPP Group MEPs.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>In this podcast episode, we talk to them at a roundtable event in the European Parliament. They say that while Russia’s military is killing thousands of Ukrainians – including hundreds of athletes - it is unacceptable for Russian and Belarusians linked to that army to compete in the Games.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in!&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>If you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please contact us via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>With close links to Putin’s war machine, Russian and Belarusian athletes should be barred from the Paris Olympics next year, say former star athletes and EPP Group MEPs.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>In this podcast episode, we talk to them at a roundtable event in the European Parliament. They say that while Russia’s military is killing thousands of Ukrainians – including hundreds of athletes - it is unacceptable for Russian and Belarusians linked to that army to compete in the Games.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in!&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>If you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please contact us via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/sport-politics-and-propaganda-olympics-2024-amidst-the-russian-war]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">c566cb3c-ad2f-4702-b062-47d4a322af89</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/360c3b0e-b6c4-4202-9e34-8ddf90715764/fHNFi4LjXLdqUEMQ6025qznW.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 22 Sep 2023 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/b414de9e-d503-48cd-89f2-736e34e42b96/Olympics-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="13407285" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>09:18</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>5</itunes:season><itunes:episode>3</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>3</podcast:episode><podcast:season>5</podcast:season></item><item><title>EDIRPA: Navigating the future of European defence reinforcement</title><itunes:title>EDIRPA: Navigating the future of European defence reinforcement</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Russia's invasion of Ukraine is speeding up what the EU has been trying to do for a long time: building a common defence. &nbsp;</p><p>In this episode, MEPs Sara Skyttedal and Michael Gahler discuss how the EU is buying and building more weapons together to arm Ukraine, with a programme they negotiated in the European Parliament called EDIRPA – European Defence Industry through Common Procurement Act.&nbsp;</p><p>The aim is to increase interoperability, boost innovation and jobs in Europe and save money through economies of scale.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p><p>Don't miss it! &nbsp;</p><p>If you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media. &nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Russia's invasion of Ukraine is speeding up what the EU has been trying to do for a long time: building a common defence. &nbsp;</p><p>In this episode, MEPs Sara Skyttedal and Michael Gahler discuss how the EU is buying and building more weapons together to arm Ukraine, with a programme they negotiated in the European Parliament called EDIRPA – European Defence Industry through Common Procurement Act.&nbsp;</p><p>The aim is to increase interoperability, boost innovation and jobs in Europe and save money through economies of scale.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p><p>Don't miss it! &nbsp;</p><p>If you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media. &nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/edirpa-navigating-the-future-of-european-defence-reinforcement]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">efa15b04-4786-4837-bd19-04a9253847e6</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/6e32621e-f3a5-4f5e-a389-e235481ec8fa/DdrX2Zu2RqJJc7QJBO0-XrLl.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 19 Sep 2023 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/8c8c8640-ac25-4a48-9d2d-a55668443e0b/EDIRPA-II-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="20683895" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>14:22</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>5</itunes:season><itunes:episode>2</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>2</podcast:episode><podcast:season>5</podcast:season></item><item><title>Securing critical raw materials: The backbone of EU’s technology and industry</title><itunes:title>Securing critical raw materials: The backbone of EU’s technology and industry</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Lithium, graphite, cobalt, and nickel are just a few from the long list of Critical Raw Materials essential to today's technology and industry.</p><p>They are needed for batteries, robotics, solar and wind power.</p><p><br></p><p>According to current assessments, by 2040, we will need six times more of these minerals than today.</p><p><br></p><p>But Europe doesn't have many of them; we depend on getting them elsewhere.</p><p><br></p><p>So where do we get them? And how?</p><p><br></p><p>In this episode, we talk to MEPs Hildegard Bentele and Tom Berendsen regarding the upcoming EU strategy on this subject. We also discuss the Critical Raw Materials Act.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p>If you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Lithium, graphite, cobalt, and nickel are just a few from the long list of Critical Raw Materials essential to today's technology and industry.</p><p>They are needed for batteries, robotics, solar and wind power.</p><p><br></p><p>According to current assessments, by 2040, we will need six times more of these minerals than today.</p><p><br></p><p>But Europe doesn't have many of them; we depend on getting them elsewhere.</p><p><br></p><p>So where do we get them? And how?</p><p><br></p><p>In this episode, we talk to MEPs Hildegard Bentele and Tom Berendsen regarding the upcoming EU strategy on this subject. We also discuss the Critical Raw Materials Act.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p>If you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/securing-critical-raw-materials-the-backbone-of-eus-technology-and-industry]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">6ab48248-f90e-499c-8e32-e5f93ea7324b</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/62b91614-e4f6-4a8c-bcd8-67dea5dc92b0/4A70wy16HQLtiiR7j65ivn6Q.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 05 Sep 2023 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/058f97a6-6736-4ef0-b6c7-60be06942c11/Critical-Raw-Materials-Podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="29016913" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>20:09</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>5</itunes:season><itunes:episode>1</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>1</podcast:episode><podcast:season>5</podcast:season></item><item><title>Intercultural and religious dialogue: 25 years of dedication</title><itunes:title>Intercultural and religious dialogue: 25 years of dedication</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>25 years of intercultural and interreligious dialogue in the EPP Group. That's what this episode is all about, marking a quarter century of bringing Europe's faiths together. As we'll hear from religious leaders and MEPs, it's helped in the healing after the Balkan wars, after terror attacks, and in shaping the Future of Europe. </p><p>We talked to our MEPs as well as leaders of different religious communities.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>25 years of intercultural and interreligious dialogue in the EPP Group. That's what this episode is all about, marking a quarter century of bringing Europe's faiths together. As we'll hear from religious leaders and MEPs, it's helped in the healing after the Balkan wars, after terror attacks, and in shaping the Future of Europe. </p><p>We talked to our MEPs as well as leaders of different religious communities.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/intercultural-and-religious-dialogue-25-years-of-dedication]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">c4bb57a3-8e4d-4118-87af-41872a866174</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/96777173-6815-4a3d-a597-456c65fd814c/CB1mNW8fGlOVDl36d7H6HzEI.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 01 Aug 2023 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/7e6cf3b3-f4cf-40c0-b5b6-a8c37341c5d9/Interreligious-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="15488961" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>10:45</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>30</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>30</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>Haunting reminder: Marking Soviet deportations and Putin’s ethnic cleansing today</title><itunes:title>Haunting reminder: Marking Soviet deportations and Putin’s ethnic cleansing today</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In a moving tribute to the victims of Soviet deportations, EPP Group MEPs join with victims and their relatives as well as a Ukrainian diplomat in the European Parliament to mark the Kremlin’s atrocities then and now. </p><p>In this podcast, we hear the stories of how Stalin deported tens of thousands of East Europans to Siberia during and after World War II. And the shocking parallel with Putin’s ethnic cleansing of families during his invasion of Ukraine today. With calls for a monument to remember the horrors and to press ahead toward victory against Russia’s invasion.</p><p><br></p><p>Tune in!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In a moving tribute to the victims of Soviet deportations, EPP Group MEPs join with victims and their relatives as well as a Ukrainian diplomat in the European Parliament to mark the Kremlin’s atrocities then and now. </p><p>In this podcast, we hear the stories of how Stalin deported tens of thousands of East Europans to Siberia during and after World War II. And the shocking parallel with Putin’s ethnic cleansing of families during his invasion of Ukraine today. With calls for a monument to remember the horrors and to press ahead toward victory against Russia’s invasion.</p><p><br></p><p>Tune in!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/haunting-reminder-marking-soviet-deportations-and-putins-ethnic-cleansing-today]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">c1f49e72-8b98-433e-a027-009eba757f5f</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/70978ac3-fa15-45ee-a482-ef09d9e89964/zR-FqQGkc53jjMffuwR2JKwO.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 18 Jul 2023 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/e45a1951-de0a-4519-aa23-8894d7e6016b/Soviet-deportations-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="15882955" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>11:01</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>29</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>29</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>Combating organised crime: How to break down criminal networks in the EU?</title><itunes:title>Combating organised crime: How to break down criminal networks in the EU?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Recently, the Europol and Eurojust, in cooperation with several national authorities, cracked an international drug trafficking ring, allegedly led by the Italian Ndrangheta. 31 suspects were arrested, 3,8 million were seized.</p><p>But this is only a drop in the bucket. The statistics show that only about 2% of proceeds from organised crime are frozen, and only 1% is confiscated.</p><p><br></p><p>How can we do better?</p><p><br></p><p>The EPP Group has proposed 50 actions to combat organised crime. We discussed them in this episode with MEPs Tomas Tobe and Jeroen Lenaers, both in the EP's Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Recently, the Europol and Eurojust, in cooperation with several national authorities, cracked an international drug trafficking ring, allegedly led by the Italian Ndrangheta. 31 suspects were arrested, 3,8 million were seized.</p><p>But this is only a drop in the bucket. The statistics show that only about 2% of proceeds from organised crime are frozen, and only 1% is confiscated.</p><p><br></p><p>How can we do better?</p><p><br></p><p>The EPP Group has proposed 50 actions to combat organised crime. We discussed them in this episode with MEPs Tomas Tobe and Jeroen Lenaers, both in the EP's Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/combating-organised-crime-how-to-break-down-criminal-networks-in-the-eu]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">be814fd1-0107-4a4a-8c7f-28037402dcb5</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/3c35e4be-2563-4fce-bd1a-7e01a8998bb7/x2m5nqBgPENlY1gGqfbIOuQW.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 04 Jul 2023 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/4b45a615-4c7f-4043-a028-713b01883dfc/Orgqanised-Crime-Podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="30334789" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>21:04</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>28</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>28</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>EU Year of Skills: Is Europe’s workforce future-proofed?</title><itunes:title>EU Year of Skills: Is Europe’s workforce future-proofed?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>The nature of labour market is changing significantly, many new skills will be needed, but we also see a gap in the market regarding some existing skills and professions.&nbsp;</p><p>It's only logical to ask - is Europe's workforce future-proof? What are the skills that will be needed, and who should gain those skills?&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>We discussed this topic in our latest episode with MEPs Dennis Radtke and Lidia Pereira, joined by Eoin Drea of the Martens Centre. &nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Don’t miss it!&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a> &nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a> &nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The nature of labour market is changing significantly, many new skills will be needed, but we also see a gap in the market regarding some existing skills and professions.&nbsp;</p><p>It's only logical to ask - is Europe's workforce future-proof? What are the skills that will be needed, and who should gain those skills?&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>We discussed this topic in our latest episode with MEPs Dennis Radtke and Lidia Pereira, joined by Eoin Drea of the Martens Centre. &nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Don’t miss it!&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a> &nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a> &nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/eu-year-of-skills-is-europes-workforce-future-proofed]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">503de7f3-ac61-4859-b5bd-c0425edc6284</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/a3fa052d-83b0-4f1a-96df-ac3beb626423/qYEHkQSoJtjS7WJ11qHckpAI.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 27 Jun 2023 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/62919ca0-17a7-4c2a-a0c8-dff3f15823e0/Podcast-medium-intro-mixdown.mp3" length="61413435" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>42:39</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>27</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>27</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>Break the silence: Prevent and combat child sexual abuse online</title><itunes:title>Break the silence: Prevent and combat child sexual abuse online</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>About one in five children in Europe are victims of some form of sexual violence. That violence extends to the online world. In this episode we discussed how we can prevent online sexual abuse of children. How can we protect the young ones? How can we create a safer online environment for the new generations?&nbsp;</p><p>Our guests: </p><p>- MEP Javier Zarzalejos, rapporteur on the proposal for the Regulation to prevent and combat child sexual abuse;</p><p>- Jean-Philippe Lecouffe, deputy executive director of Europol;</p><p>- Antonio Labrador Jimenez, EU Commission's team leader on the fight against child sexual abuse.</p><p>We want to inform our listeners in advance that although we approach this topic with great sensitivity, there may be discussions that could potentially evoke strong emotional responses with some of our listeners.</p><p><br></p><p>If you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>About one in five children in Europe are victims of some form of sexual violence. That violence extends to the online world. In this episode we discussed how we can prevent online sexual abuse of children. How can we protect the young ones? How can we create a safer online environment for the new generations?&nbsp;</p><p>Our guests: </p><p>- MEP Javier Zarzalejos, rapporteur on the proposal for the Regulation to prevent and combat child sexual abuse;</p><p>- Jean-Philippe Lecouffe, deputy executive director of Europol;</p><p>- Antonio Labrador Jimenez, EU Commission's team leader on the fight against child sexual abuse.</p><p>We want to inform our listeners in advance that although we approach this topic with great sensitivity, there may be discussions that could potentially evoke strong emotional responses with some of our listeners.</p><p><br></p><p>If you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/break-the-silence-prevent-and-combat-child-sexual-abuse-online]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">922cf095-3451-4f4d-9e3b-8f54038b950c</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/13a6e8f4-fb30-4dba-9401-1589e813b08d/xkq4Y7MwzXdW670TEexyEqgs.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 13 Jun 2023 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/08a20455-5041-454e-8b5d-539700402092/Child-abuse-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="50678523" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>35:11</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>26</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>26</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>Combating violence against women in the EU: Actions, not just words</title><itunes:title>Combating violence against women in the EU: Actions, not just words</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>How to combat the "silent epidemic" of violence against women in the EU and beyond? How is the EPP Group working to get all EU27 countries to ratify the Istanbul Convention against gender-based violence? </p><p>In this EPP Group podcast, MEP Frances Fitzgerald talks about her efforts on the European Parliament's Women's Rights and Gender Equality Committee, including a new Directive on combatting violence against women. Joining her is Marcella Pirrone, President of the WAVE Network (Women Against Violence in Europe).</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p>If you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please contact us via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>How to combat the "silent epidemic" of violence against women in the EU and beyond? How is the EPP Group working to get all EU27 countries to ratify the Istanbul Convention against gender-based violence? </p><p>In this EPP Group podcast, MEP Frances Fitzgerald talks about her efforts on the European Parliament's Women's Rights and Gender Equality Committee, including a new Directive on combatting violence against women. Joining her is Marcella Pirrone, President of the WAVE Network (Women Against Violence in Europe).</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p>If you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please contact us via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/combating-violence-against-women-in-the-eu-actions-not-just-words]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">303a13e1-39ce-4ab8-93fa-7e606c35b87f</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/79534c6e-f88e-4a0e-bb73-b0686120e7d8/WZc0XcisHWGAwRPZth2tOGzh.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 30 May 2023 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/af01ab79-75d8-417c-a7b1-7f28b5ad625e/VAWG-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="32194078" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>22:21</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>25</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>25</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>EU Textile Strategy: A path to sustainability</title><itunes:title>EU Textile Strategy: A path to sustainability</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>How can we make fast and wasteful fashion out-of-fashion?&nbsp;Is there potential for Europe to lead a global change towards a more sustainable textile sector?&nbsp;</p><p>In our latest episode, we talked about the textile industry’s impact on the environment&nbsp;and the EU’s response to it, mainly through its textile strategy.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Joining our&nbsp;discussion were MEPs Pernille Weiss and Henna Virkkunen, together with Prof. Else Skjold, expert on business developments in the textiles &amp;&nbsp;fashion sectors. &nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Don’t miss it!&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>How can we make fast and wasteful fashion out-of-fashion?&nbsp;Is there potential for Europe to lead a global change towards a more sustainable textile sector?&nbsp;</p><p>In our latest episode, we talked about the textile industry’s impact on the environment&nbsp;and the EU’s response to it, mainly through its textile strategy.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Joining our&nbsp;discussion were MEPs Pernille Weiss and Henna Virkkunen, together with Prof. Else Skjold, expert on business developments in the textiles &amp;&nbsp;fashion sectors. &nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Don’t miss it!&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/eu-textile-strategy-a-path-to-sustainability]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">cf6394d6-e6ec-4509-bade-3ff6114b4232</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bd6826d6-1882-4d5a-85a6-1a7ccf8e52b4/nt9qH9GF-h6DTXEbSLKrzccu.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 23 May 2023 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/5a0a35c7-3e7e-416d-9e27-c17f9f3b0f1b/Textiles-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="57782901" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>40:07</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>24</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>24</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>The future of EU trade: Unlocking the growth potential</title><itunes:title>The future of EU trade: Unlocking the growth potential</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>The European Union's economy is heavily focused on international trade. For this reason, new trade agreements are often a topic of Brussels policies. Even now we see new potential agreements with the USA, Latin America, Australia, Asia... As our economy is going through the green and digital transition, we will need more and more critical raw materials. Can we get that through new trade agreements? &nbsp;</p><p>In our latest episode we spoke to two members of the European Parliament's International Trade Committee - Anna-Michelle Assimakopoulou and Jörgen Warborn.&nbsp;</p><p>Don't miss it!&nbsp;</p><p>And if you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please contact us via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The European Union's economy is heavily focused on international trade. For this reason, new trade agreements are often a topic of Brussels policies. Even now we see new potential agreements with the USA, Latin America, Australia, Asia... As our economy is going through the green and digital transition, we will need more and more critical raw materials. Can we get that through new trade agreements? &nbsp;</p><p>In our latest episode we spoke to two members of the European Parliament's International Trade Committee - Anna-Michelle Assimakopoulou and Jörgen Warborn.&nbsp;</p><p>Don't miss it!&nbsp;</p><p>And if you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please contact us via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/the-future-of-eu-trade-unlocking-the-growth-potential]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">e3119b02-c4a7-43cb-95a5-e7823c33e218</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/0adca73e-5010-4188-ab87-c68d0d497a0e/Tyy3wik-Ox988IrwYWSACB-2.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 09 May 2023 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/5f342259-3189-4072-bc0d-32f692da2faa/Trade-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="33492975" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>23:15</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>23</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>23</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>Public health: EU&apos;s priorities in the post-pandemic era</title><itunes:title>Public health: EU&apos;s priorities in the post-pandemic era</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In the past few years, many lessons were learned in the area of public health. So, what to expect from the EU in the post-pandemic era? What initiatives should we see? What will be the priorities?</p><p>In this episode we talked to MEP Dolors Montserrat and prof. Nuria Mas, of University of Navarra.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>&nbsp;Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In the past few years, many lessons were learned in the area of public health. So, what to expect from the EU in the post-pandemic era? What initiatives should we see? What will be the priorities?</p><p>In this episode we talked to MEP Dolors Montserrat and prof. Nuria Mas, of University of Navarra.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>&nbsp;Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/public-health-eus-priorities-in-the-post-pandemic-era]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">40ee39cd-fbf9-4cdd-956b-692705fb738a</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/89642191-ba37-428c-8a02-b071f05a3de2/mr5xLtsasY0agTFUxyuMu_0n.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 02 May 2023 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/60e54804-2c84-4c7d-949f-5178065aa25d/Health-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="28571633" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>19:50</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>22</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>22</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>Building a stronger Europe: Joint procurement for a safer future</title><itunes:title>Building a stronger Europe: Joint procurement for a safer future</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>How to save money and create more jobs in Europe’s defence industry? In this week's episode, we look at the EU’s EDIRPA legislation - European Defence Industry Reinforcement through common Procurement Act - aimed at building and buying arms jointly among the EU27. We spoke to key EPP Group MEPs in the effort: Sara Skyttedal of Sweden and Michael Gahler of Germany. The war in Ukraine has added urgency to the need for Europe to better arm itself, along with supplying Ukraine through the European Peace Facility.&nbsp;</p><p>Don’t miss it!&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>How to save money and create more jobs in Europe’s defence industry? In this week's episode, we look at the EU’s EDIRPA legislation - European Defence Industry Reinforcement through common Procurement Act - aimed at building and buying arms jointly among the EU27. We spoke to key EPP Group MEPs in the effort: Sara Skyttedal of Sweden and Michael Gahler of Germany. The war in Ukraine has added urgency to the need for Europe to better arm itself, along with supplying Ukraine through the European Peace Facility.&nbsp;</p><p>Don’t miss it!&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/building-a-stronger-europe-joint-procurement-for-a-safer-future]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">44064b92-b3d2-4c87-91eb-593586df1b1c</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/6237ac65-e65b-4717-9304-01ba5e00d0fb/Xj-lXzN4tjH3gu3tgrWP-7dU.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 25 Apr 2023 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/50286633-9911-440c-8d32-e0b2bf56460e/EDIRPA-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="28879214" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>20:03</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>21</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>21</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>The Chips Act: How can the EU compete in the global race?</title><itunes:title>The Chips Act: How can the EU compete in the global race?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Chips, or to be more technical - semiconductors - are being used today in phones, computers, cars, appliances.... and the EU imports most of them.&nbsp;</p><p>So, how can the EU close this production gap and avoid potential crises and shortages amid global tensions?&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>In our latest episode, we talked to Eva Maydell, the EPP Group's lead MEP on the Chips Act.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Chips, or to be more technical - semiconductors - are being used today in phones, computers, cars, appliances.... and the EU imports most of them.&nbsp;</p><p>So, how can the EU close this production gap and avoid potential crises and shortages amid global tensions?&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>In our latest episode, we talked to Eva Maydell, the EPP Group's lead MEP on the Chips Act.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/the-chips-act-how-can-the-eu-compete-in-the-global-race]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">15d133b1-691f-45bb-96f7-4a2c0da61e94</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/d0070963-6436-442c-b47e-e0d2c254fe68/Xc3lcCzBgnITunEgp_SmRzRT.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 11 Apr 2023 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/189dff69-2dea-4fe8-b128-552fec6eaac3/Chips-podcast.mp3" length="23839225" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>16:33</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>20</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>20</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>The future of EU defence: Advancing critical technologies</title><itunes:title>The future of EU defence: Advancing critical technologies</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>What is the European Union doing on critical technologies in defence with a war on our doorstep, and high tensions elsewhere?&nbsp;</p><p>How are we developing AI, robotics, quantum computing, hypersonics, drones - all the technologies that a modern defence industry uses.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>In this week's episode we talked to Riho Terras, former commander of the Estonian Defence Forces, and Member of the European Parliament on the Industry, Research and Energy Committee.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>What is the European Union doing on critical technologies in defence with a war on our doorstep, and high tensions elsewhere?&nbsp;</p><p>How are we developing AI, robotics, quantum computing, hypersonics, drones - all the technologies that a modern defence industry uses.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>In this week's episode we talked to Riho Terras, former commander of the Estonian Defence Forces, and Member of the European Parliament on the Industry, Research and Energy Committee.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/the-future-of-eu-defence-advancing-critical-technologies]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">8c3b25e5-b5be-47d2-b281-15d758c7ef49</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/9f5f5efe-1152-4f3c-8c13-5656e22be568/38O2gcISuIZXRzh7adN3vS4E.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 28 Mar 2023 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/6f69fc20-593f-42b7-ac8b-55a95e308a2f/Defence-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="31862899" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>22:07</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>19</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>19</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>Post-Brexit UK: Relations with the EU and response to Russia</title><itunes:title>Post-Brexit UK: Relations with the EU and response to Russia</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Did Brexit encourage Putin to invade Ukraine? Has Brexit made the UK stronger or weaker? What has it done for relations with the EU?&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In our latest episode, we talked about the post-Brexit UK and its response to Russia after the invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>For this discussion, our MEPs Andrius Kubilius and Sean Kelly were joined by British security expert and writer Mr. Edward Lucas.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Don’t miss it!&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>And if you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a></p><p>Instagram:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a></p><p>Twitter:&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Did Brexit encourage Putin to invade Ukraine? Has Brexit made the UK stronger or weaker? What has it done for relations with the EU?&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In our latest episode, we talked about the post-Brexit UK and its response to Russia after the invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>For this discussion, our MEPs Andrius Kubilius and Sean Kelly were joined by British security expert and writer Mr. Edward Lucas.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Don’t miss it!&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>And if you have a topic you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a></p><p>Instagram:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a></p><p>Twitter:&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/post-brexit-uk-relations-with-the-eu-and-response-to-russia]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">bb2a8a4e-0077-4864-8b10-cf87a8c08f5c</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/c5417473-e9d6-417c-ad01-7d5309cd0b94/J1uA1MNGTfI7K_pRnczYL7g6.jpg"/><pubDate>Thu, 09 Mar 2023 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/926fb20d-f8a3-435b-bb36-a29f26eb7104/Brexit-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="47390705" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>32:54</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>18</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>18</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>Green hydrogen: How to speed up Europe’s decarbonisation?</title><itunes:title>Green hydrogen: How to speed up Europe’s decarbonisation?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>With natural gas generating 20% of our electricity and 40% of our heat in Europe, a new gas package of EU legislation aims to speed the shift to hydrogen and other renewables.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>In this podcast, the EPP Group's Jerzy Buzek and Angelika Niebler discuss how the package will help through financing and smart regulation, to encourage private sector investment. Both MEPs are on the European Parliament's Industry, Research and Energy Committee, they talk about the need to switch to green hydrogen made from renewables, moving away from blue hydrogen made from other sources of energy. To ensure a steady and affordable supply of energy for homes and businesses.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Don’t miss it!&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>With natural gas generating 20% of our electricity and 40% of our heat in Europe, a new gas package of EU legislation aims to speed the shift to hydrogen and other renewables.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>In this podcast, the EPP Group's Jerzy Buzek and Angelika Niebler discuss how the package will help through financing and smart regulation, to encourage private sector investment. Both MEPs are on the European Parliament's Industry, Research and Energy Committee, they talk about the need to switch to green hydrogen made from renewables, moving away from blue hydrogen made from other sources of energy. To ensure a steady and affordable supply of energy for homes and businesses.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Don’t miss it!&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/green-hydrogen-how-to-speed-up-europes-decarbonisation]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">cd839a5a-099f-459d-ac96-961e8211075e</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/44c4365f-0c6e-458d-a2f6-d2dac1eef27a/o-INzveQ1iINIAsekKtHiTI1.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 21 Feb 2023 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/c8b5ad09-5c0c-44b1-9a7e-250661cb8a3e/Gas-package-hydrogen-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="41782797" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>29:01</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>17</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>17</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>Cohesion Fund: Projects that are changing the European Union</title><itunes:title>Cohesion Fund: Projects that are changing the European Union</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>The EU's Cohesion Fund supports less developed members of the Union to catch up with the more developed parts.&nbsp;</p><p>Many projects that were financed by this Fund were in the transportation field.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>It includes large-scale projects such as a bridge in Croatia and a railway in Slovakia, and smaller projects such as new electric buses in Bulgaria.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>In this podcast episode, we talk about the Cohesion Fund and how it can change urban mobility and transport.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Our guests are MEPs Tomislav Sokol and Andrey Novakov, Chair of the EPP Group's Cohesion Monitoring Group, both of whom are Members of the European Parliament's Committee on Regional Development.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>*This episode was recorded during the December plenary in Strasbourg</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The EU's Cohesion Fund supports less developed members of the Union to catch up with the more developed parts.&nbsp;</p><p>Many projects that were financed by this Fund were in the transportation field.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>It includes large-scale projects such as a bridge in Croatia and a railway in Slovakia, and smaller projects such as new electric buses in Bulgaria.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>In this podcast episode, we talk about the Cohesion Fund and how it can change urban mobility and transport.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Our guests are MEPs Tomislav Sokol and Andrey Novakov, Chair of the EPP Group's Cohesion Monitoring Group, both of whom are Members of the European Parliament's Committee on Regional Development.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>*This episode was recorded during the December plenary in Strasbourg</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/cohesion-fund-projects-that-are-changing-the-european-union]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">0ee140fb-f877-4bf0-a5f3-8f6dba9ee9ac</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/85ceab23-e252-4132-bc1a-33841ae79fd7/WHPeaKMDMWtBUP1paiKo8g_K.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 07 Feb 2023 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/3e3c9e08-989b-4aef-bcf7-f146a57668ab/Cohesion-mobility-projects-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="22076125" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>15:20</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>16</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>16</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>Sweden&apos;s 2023 EU Presidency: How to move things forward?</title><itunes:title>Sweden&apos;s 2023 EU Presidency: How to move things forward?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>What did Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson mean by a "greener, safer, freer" EU when outlining his goals whilst presiding over the European Council in the first half of 2023?&nbsp;</p><p>EPP Group MEPs Tomas Tobé, Anna-Michelle Asimakapoulou and Paulo Rangel give their take on the tasks ahead. These include the war in Ukraine, the rising cost of living, jobs, migration, the green transition, trade, making Europe more competitive and critical raw materials, among others. All these issues need close cooperation between the Council and the European Parliament.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Don't miss our latest episode!&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>What did Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson mean by a "greener, safer, freer" EU when outlining his goals whilst presiding over the European Council in the first half of 2023?&nbsp;</p><p>EPP Group MEPs Tomas Tobé, Anna-Michelle Asimakapoulou and Paulo Rangel give their take on the tasks ahead. These include the war in Ukraine, the rising cost of living, jobs, migration, the green transition, trade, making Europe more competitive and critical raw materials, among others. All these issues need close cooperation between the Council and the European Parliament.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Don't miss our latest episode!&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/swedens-2023-eu-presidency-how-to-move-things-forward]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">a79c0670-d7d5-42d1-bf5d-25aae000888a</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/6786689c-06ba-478a-9e65-e09b4af0a66a/iCICfIxVvzqBpIgVzrEIzP8H.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 24 Jan 2023 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/3710511c-da29-4110-a9df-8a7c97b83fa3/Swedish-Presidency-Podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="43609865" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>30:17</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>15</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>15</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>The EU Migration Pact: How to prevent a new crisis?</title><itunes:title>The EU Migration Pact: How to prevent a new crisis?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>More than 300.000 people crossed European borders illegally in 2022. Only on the Balkan route did we see an increase of almost 170%. These are the highest numbers since 2016.&nbsp;</p><p>The reception capacities in Member States are at their limits, and serious action is needed.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>In our latest episode, we discussed this new potential migration crisis with MEPs Tomas Tobé and Jeroen Lenaers.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>More than 300.000 people crossed European borders illegally in 2022. Only on the Balkan route did we see an increase of almost 170%. These are the highest numbers since 2016.&nbsp;</p><p>The reception capacities in Member States are at their limits, and serious action is needed.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>In our latest episode, we discussed this new potential migration crisis with MEPs Tomas Tobé and Jeroen Lenaers.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/the-eu-migration-pact-how-to-prevent-a-new-crisis]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">64879cad-97ed-41b0-bbfc-2b7cb1f193d6</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/e82189e2-7c11-4880-94a5-5cf393ff63fd/EG421MNXy4E7iIBI8g9UDaQm.jpg"/><pubDate>Thu, 12 Jan 2023 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/55b8eb0f-6198-4aba-8b9a-a2718bd3de21/Migration-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="39383159" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>27:21</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>14</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>14</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>Food security: How can young farmers make a difference?</title><itunes:title>Food security: How can young farmers make a difference?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In our latest episode, we tackled the topic of the future of agriculture. More precisely - how to make farming more attractive to younger generations. &nbsp;</p><p>Ahead of the European Congress of Young Farmers, we talked to two of our MEPs - Michaela Šojdrová and Herbert Dorfmann - and Bram Van Hecke, President of the Flemish Groene Kring organisation. &nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Is food production stable? How can we get young people interested in farming? &nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>What do young farmers want from EU legislation? &nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Tune in to our latest episode! &nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic you want to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu</a>.&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In our latest episode, we tackled the topic of the future of agriculture. More precisely - how to make farming more attractive to younger generations. &nbsp;</p><p>Ahead of the European Congress of Young Farmers, we talked to two of our MEPs - Michaela Šojdrová and Herbert Dorfmann - and Bram Van Hecke, President of the Flemish Groene Kring organisation. &nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Is food production stable? How can we get young people interested in farming? &nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>What do young farmers want from EU legislation? &nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Tune in to our latest episode! &nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic you want to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu</a>.&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/food-security-how-can-young-farmers-make-a-difference]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">a233f5a4-37f1-4742-a2bb-dc9e3f8fabdc</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/22f5666e-789d-49e9-9365-5bc8efd831af/yGOsEQcwqz0bTCL1g3zZTWlD.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 06 Dec 2022 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/302e7759-7dcf-4d5f-b46e-9be680aa6017/Young-farmers-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="39760447" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>27:36</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>13</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>13</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>From Red Terror to Terrorist State: Is a Different Russia Possible?</title><itunes:title>From Red Terror to Terrorist State: Is a Different Russia Possible?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>As we witness the&nbsp;unprovoked&nbsp;brutality of&nbsp;the&nbsp;Kremlin’s war against Ukraine, we increasingly&nbsp;realise&nbsp;that Russia’s aggression will only end if Ukraine wins this war and Russia itself undergoes a fundamental transformation.&nbsp;</p><p>In this episode,&nbsp;we talk with MEP Rasa Juknevičienė and a prominent&nbsp;Russian-American&nbsp;historian,&nbsp;Yuri Felshtinsky.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>As we witness the&nbsp;unprovoked&nbsp;brutality of&nbsp;the&nbsp;Kremlin’s war against Ukraine, we increasingly&nbsp;realise&nbsp;that Russia’s aggression will only end if Ukraine wins this war and Russia itself undergoes a fundamental transformation.&nbsp;</p><p>In this episode,&nbsp;we talk with MEP Rasa Juknevičienė and a prominent&nbsp;Russian-American&nbsp;historian,&nbsp;Yuri Felshtinsky.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/from-red-terror-to-terrorist-state-is-a-different-russia-possible]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">8138e3a3-2382-401a-b9ed-4dac24fae86c</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/30bf8760-7776-4def-842d-2da85565cd13/I7uMDOt8vlX189awSK2e0ouI.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 29 Nov 2022 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/7c995dd6-89cc-4bb3-8624-e78382c4fb8f/Rasa-and-historian-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="42451529" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>29:28</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>12</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>12</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>Russia - a terrorist state: Political declaration or a new legal reality</title><itunes:title>Russia - a terrorist state: Political declaration or a new legal reality</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>A resolution in the European Parliament calls on the EU to brand Russia as a state sponsor of terrorism. In this EPP Group podcast, we talk with MEPs Radosław Sikorski of Poland and Michael Gahler of Germany on the potential impact, such as redirecting frozen Russian assets to rebuild Ukraine ravaged by the Russian invasion. </p><p>It can also further isolate Russia in the world and send a warning to other countries engaging in terrorist acts.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss this episode!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>A resolution in the European Parliament calls on the EU to brand Russia as a state sponsor of terrorism. In this EPP Group podcast, we talk with MEPs Radosław Sikorski of Poland and Michael Gahler of Germany on the potential impact, such as redirecting frozen Russian assets to rebuild Ukraine ravaged by the Russian invasion. </p><p>It can also further isolate Russia in the world and send a warning to other countries engaging in terrorist acts.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss this episode!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/russia-a-terrorist-state-political-declaration-or-a-new-legal-reality]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">7bd95674-c8df-48ec-8ac5-24a38a2b7d20</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/d9b39a38-f755-4d60-b6e0-45462f66ff7c/85fwfx-kpDVu_W9pFP6zZerK.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 23 Nov 2022 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/f7c913ba-c155-4e83-9000-470dd4b1657f/Russia-20Sikorski-20Gahler-20podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="20511697" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>14:14</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>11</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>11</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>A 21st century battle: Fighting disinformation and authoritarianism</title><itunes:title>A 21st century battle: Fighting disinformation and authoritarianism</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In the week following the US midterm elections, we discuss two significant threats facing&nbsp;modern democracies - disinformation and authoritarianism.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>For this episode, Chris Burns sat down with MEP Vladimír Bilčík and Trygve Olson from the Washington-based Lincoln Project. They covered everything from the admitted Russian disinformation campaign regarding the US midterms to the Digital Services Act and Elon Musk taking over Twitter.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In the week following the US midterm elections, we discuss two significant threats facing&nbsp;modern democracies - disinformation and authoritarianism.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>For this episode, Chris Burns sat down with MEP Vladimír Bilčík and Trygve Olson from the Washington-based Lincoln Project. They covered everything from the admitted Russian disinformation campaign regarding the US midterms to the Digital Services Act and Elon Musk taking over Twitter.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/a-21st-century-battle-fighting-disinformation-and-authoritarianism]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">841c6585-6680-47cc-814e-11dc68b1f426</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/dc0818cf-a8c1-462b-b1aa-8fa528e10290/P_7MT7bzfItQYO9c7G89GypK.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 18 Nov 2022 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/0e6a396a-ab8d-448c-af91-6a24d888253b/Disinfo-20Bilcik-20-20Lincoln-20Project-20podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="45322341" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>31:28</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>10</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>10</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>Equal pay for equal work: Why do inequalities persist?</title><itunes:title>Equal pay for equal work: Why do inequalities persist?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>As of today, 15 November, many women in the EU will work for free until the end of the year - if we compare their salaries to their male colleagues doing the same job.   </p><p> </p><p>The gender pay gap is still 13% - on average - and EU Equal Pay Day aims to raise awareness of this inequality that jeopardises women's economic independence.  </p><p> </p><p>Anna Gumbau talked to Maria Walsh MEP, Sirpa Pietikäinen MEP and Mary Collins from the European Women's Lobby about the root causes of this inequality and what direction needs to be taken to tackle this persistent problem in our societies.</p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>As of today, 15 November, many women in the EU will work for free until the end of the year - if we compare their salaries to their male colleagues doing the same job.   </p><p> </p><p>The gender pay gap is still 13% - on average - and EU Equal Pay Day aims to raise awareness of this inequality that jeopardises women's economic independence.  </p><p> </p><p>Anna Gumbau talked to Maria Walsh MEP, Sirpa Pietikäinen MEP and Mary Collins from the European Women's Lobby about the root causes of this inequality and what direction needs to be taken to tackle this persistent problem in our societies.</p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/equal-pay-for-equal-work-why-the-inequalities-persist]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">9744d3e0-0416-48cd-bea7-7215a902fa5d</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/028be424-855e-4cbc-b06c-303cf2b7bfd9/w1e7zMZWCvg9dk4mn7c01kL9.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 15 Nov 2022 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/9c4d69aa-5e46-41fe-acaf-1db9a48cf792/Equal-20Pay-20podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="53561006" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>37:11</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>9</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>9</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>Intercultural and religious dialogue: Why it matters</title><itunes:title>Intercultural and religious dialogue: Why it matters</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>For the past 24 years, the EPP Group has had an active Working Group on Intercultural and Religious Dialogue. It’s the only Group within the European Parliament to have this.&nbsp;</p><p>From understanding different cultures and religions to building trust and ultimately bringing people closer together – that is where the importance of this Working Group lies.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>In our latest podcast episode, Chris Burns talked to the co-Chairs of this Working Group, MEPs György Hölvényi and Jan Olbrycht.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Don’t miss it!&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>For the past 24 years, the EPP Group has had an active Working Group on Intercultural and Religious Dialogue. It’s the only Group within the European Parliament to have this.&nbsp;</p><p>From understanding different cultures and religions to building trust and ultimately bringing people closer together – that is where the importance of this Working Group lies.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>In our latest podcast episode, Chris Burns talked to the co-Chairs of this Working Group, MEPs György Hölvényi and Jan Olbrycht.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Don’t miss it!&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/intercultural-and-religious-dialogue-why-it-matters]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">9a09c100-d310-4a44-8e50-a3eb83dcb4a2</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/33b90f9d-a1d6-4af7-add2-b52466ba69db/mt0wX7xoju3yPZTCtT7nk4Jh.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 08 Nov 2022 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/ac384185-b1e7-4196-9a9b-847b1dde3964/Intercultural-20dialogue-20podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="26231377" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>18:13</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>8</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>8</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>COP27: How can the world reach its climate goals?</title><itunes:title>COP27: How can the world reach its climate goals?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>We are only a few days away from COP27 - the United Nations Climate Conference which will be held this year in Sharm el-Sheikh. And since last year's COP in Glasgow, the circumstances have changed significantly. We are witnessing a war, we are witnessing an energy crisis, and ultimately the rising cost of life and cost of doing business. </p><p>Throughout 2022, the EU has been dealing with its Fit For 55 package which defines Union's climate goals and aims to put them into practice. Cutting carbon emissions, establishing social climate fund, raising the target for renewables... These are just some of the elements covered by the Fit For 55 package, but what is happening in the other regions of the world? Clearly, the EU cannot act on climate change alone, and that's why this COP will be so important.</p><p>To discuss what we can expect from this year's Conference, in our new podcast episode Anna Gumbau had a talk with MEP Lidia Pereira, a member of the European Parliament's delegation to this year's COP.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media. </p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup  </p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup  </p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup  </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>We are only a few days away from COP27 - the United Nations Climate Conference which will be held this year in Sharm el-Sheikh. And since last year's COP in Glasgow, the circumstances have changed significantly. We are witnessing a war, we are witnessing an energy crisis, and ultimately the rising cost of life and cost of doing business. </p><p>Throughout 2022, the EU has been dealing with its Fit For 55 package which defines Union's climate goals and aims to put them into practice. Cutting carbon emissions, establishing social climate fund, raising the target for renewables... These are just some of the elements covered by the Fit For 55 package, but what is happening in the other regions of the world? Clearly, the EU cannot act on climate change alone, and that's why this COP will be so important.</p><p>To discuss what we can expect from this year's Conference, in our new podcast episode Anna Gumbau had a talk with MEP Lidia Pereira, a member of the European Parliament's delegation to this year's COP.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media. </p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup  </p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup  </p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup  </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/cop27-how-can-the-world-reach-its-climate-goals]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">9de24af8-b280-423e-b1d2-5c784374a5fe</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/ef9ad458-82c0-4448-a5a9-2ad8434ed0bf/kxyw0Z8Vtgt2c7hDMHF8VTVq.jpg"/><pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2022 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/bc3d76d0-9386-4f08-9d22-d9bf7a3ab672/COP27-20podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="46942575" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>32:36</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>7</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>7</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>30 years of the Single Market: How did it change our everyday lives?</title><itunes:title>30 years of the Single Market: How did it change our everyday lives?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>It all started in 1993. with four basic freedoms - the free movement of goods, people, services and capital. And next year we are celebrating 30th anniversary of the EU's Single Market.</p><p>In 2019 there was a study that showed that that GDP across the EU is nearly 10% higher because of this Single Market.</p><p><br></p><p>So what are the concrete benefits that it brings us, all of us across the EU27?</p><p><br></p><p>For our latest podcast episode, Chris Burns had a talk with three of our MEPs, all in the IMCO Committee - Arba Kokalari, Andreas Schwab and Tomislav Sokol.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!  </p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media. </p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup  </p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup  </p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup  </p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>It all started in 1993. with four basic freedoms - the free movement of goods, people, services and capital. And next year we are celebrating 30th anniversary of the EU's Single Market.</p><p>In 2019 there was a study that showed that that GDP across the EU is nearly 10% higher because of this Single Market.</p><p><br></p><p>So what are the concrete benefits that it brings us, all of us across the EU27?</p><p><br></p><p>For our latest podcast episode, Chris Burns had a talk with three of our MEPs, all in the IMCO Committee - Arba Kokalari, Andreas Schwab and Tomislav Sokol.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!  </p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media. </p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup  </p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup  </p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup  </p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/30-years-of-the-single-market-how-did-it-change-our-everyday-lives]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">a1176f8a-2565-499b-bc76-88b2ef8801fb</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/48096491-8ab8-4364-a5e5-09187e2ffb61/-FmnVAWmJZSG92C6aVL-ItZY.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 25 Oct 2022 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/c9ff1035-d418-4c95-b4e0-49cd248dbba6/Single-20Market-20Podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="28888447" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>20:03</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>6</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>6</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>Cohesion Policy: How can it help with rising energy prices?</title><itunes:title>Cohesion Policy: How can it help with rising energy prices?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>What is Cohesion Policy? The simplest answer to this question would be - it's billions of euros in funding that the EU provides to develop regions, to correct imbalances and to make sure every part of the EU27 is developing. </p><p>But since we're talking about billions of euros, given the current geopolitical situation and rising energy prices, we must ask - what can Cohesion Policy do in the context of the energy crisis? </p><p><br></p><p>For this episode of our podcast, Chris Burns talked to MEPs Isabel Benjumea Benjumea, Pascal Arimont and Franc Bogovič, all three are Members of the European Parliament's Committee on Regional Development. </p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!  </p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media. </p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup  </p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup  </p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup  </p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>What is Cohesion Policy? The simplest answer to this question would be - it's billions of euros in funding that the EU provides to develop regions, to correct imbalances and to make sure every part of the EU27 is developing. </p><p>But since we're talking about billions of euros, given the current geopolitical situation and rising energy prices, we must ask - what can Cohesion Policy do in the context of the energy crisis? </p><p><br></p><p>For this episode of our podcast, Chris Burns talked to MEPs Isabel Benjumea Benjumea, Pascal Arimont and Franc Bogovič, all three are Members of the European Parliament's Committee on Regional Development. </p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!  </p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media. </p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup  </p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup  </p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup  </p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/cohesion-policy-how-can-it-help-with-rising-energy-prices]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">9f601baf-b386-4d4b-9dd5-86f3840bed7e</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/eaa48823-dd6f-483a-a28a-317a3b25b749/quWAE45nba9coTisxjhrdi49.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 11 Oct 2022 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/11f92faf-30d8-44e4-a79b-08752c0fe87a/Cohesion-20and-20energy-20podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="38127499" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>26:28</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>5</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>5</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>Russia’s war: counter-offensive, referenda, mobilisation. What&apos;s next?</title><itunes:title>Russia’s war: counter-offensive, referenda, mobilisation. What&apos;s next?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>The news of mobilisation order in Russia caused strong reactions around the world. Just as annexation of Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson.</p><p>So how can&nbsp;Russia's annexation of four Ukrainian territories change the situation on the ground? </p><p>What should&nbsp;EU countries&nbsp;do with Russians that want to escape mobilisation?&nbsp;</p><p>In this week's episode, Chris Burns sat down with our MEPs Andrius Kubilius and Michael Gahler to ask some questions that many are wondering.</p><p>Tune in!</p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The news of mobilisation order in Russia caused strong reactions around the world. Just as annexation of Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson.</p><p>So how can&nbsp;Russia's annexation of four Ukrainian territories change the situation on the ground? </p><p>What should&nbsp;EU countries&nbsp;do with Russians that want to escape mobilisation?&nbsp;</p><p>In this week's episode, Chris Burns sat down with our MEPs Andrius Kubilius and Michael Gahler to ask some questions that many are wondering.</p><p>Tune in!</p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/russias-war-counter-offensive-referenda-mobilisation-whats-next]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">b53a9d53-d3fd-455b-ac04-c626d9dede9c</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/24711887-a9b6-407f-93a1-999bf2c04da2/4uok9EGyfHbH5x_KyOx2Z6g-.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 05 Oct 2022 10:40:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/1d11f74e-75a0-473e-bedc-736875cb5ed7/Russia-20Ukraine-20podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="41046657" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>28:30</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>4</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>4</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>Rising energy prices: How to ease the burden?</title><itunes:title>Rising energy prices: How to ease the burden?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>European industry provides 35 million jobs&nbsp;and our priority as the EPP Group is to protect them. We have to think about how the energy crisis impacts industry and businesses across Europe? How are they adapting? </p><p>How can the EU help them? How&nbsp;can we achieve balance in the current context of the green transition? </p><p>We are discussing these issues in the new podcast episode&nbsp;with MEPs Tom Berendsen of the Netherlands, Christian Ehler&nbsp;of Germany, and Maria da Graça Carvalho of&nbsp;Portugal. &nbsp;</p><p>Tune in!</p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>European industry provides 35 million jobs&nbsp;and our priority as the EPP Group is to protect them. We have to think about how the energy crisis impacts industry and businesses across Europe? How are they adapting? </p><p>How can the EU help them? How&nbsp;can we achieve balance in the current context of the green transition? </p><p>We are discussing these issues in the new podcast episode&nbsp;with MEPs Tom Berendsen of the Netherlands, Christian Ehler&nbsp;of Germany, and Maria da Graça Carvalho of&nbsp;Portugal. &nbsp;</p><p>Tune in!</p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/rising-energy-prices-how-to-ease-the-burden]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">c37058da-22e0-429c-a1d3-bccce39397e5</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/3aaeaa2e-73f5-45d2-85fc-a356ecfc78b3/ntJZ7Uy8UbVksGaQAuaZIzD0.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 20 Sep 2022 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/a77dc573-7450-4469-99b4-84fb183df28f/Energy-20and-20Industry-20podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="35681227" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>24:46</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>3</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>3</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>New European Bauhaus: What, how and for whom?</title><itunes:title>New European Bauhaus: What, how and for whom?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>For this episode of our podcast, Chris Burns sat down for a talk with MEP Željana Zovko, the shadow rapporteur on the New European Bauhaus in the CULT Committee.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>This European Commission's initiative comes as a call for a sustainable future in line with the digital and green goals.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>The idea is to connect the world of culture and art with the world of technology and science to create pleasant, accessible, sustainable and energy-efficient living spaces.&nbsp;</p><p>But, without the safety component, it just won't be enough.&nbsp;</p><p>And the safety component is exactly what MEP Željana Zovko, our guest for this episode, has insisted to be included in the New European Bauhaus.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in!&nbsp;</p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>For this episode of our podcast, Chris Burns sat down for a talk with MEP Željana Zovko, the shadow rapporteur on the New European Bauhaus in the CULT Committee.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>This European Commission's initiative comes as a call for a sustainable future in line with the digital and green goals.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>The idea is to connect the world of culture and art with the world of technology and science to create pleasant, accessible, sustainable and energy-efficient living spaces.&nbsp;</p><p>But, without the safety component, it just won't be enough.&nbsp;</p><p>And the safety component is exactly what MEP Željana Zovko, our guest for this episode, has insisted to be included in the New European Bauhaus.&nbsp;</p><p>Tune in!&nbsp;</p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu</a>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/new-european-bauhaus-what-how-and-for-whom]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">e627a183-abc8-4c6d-afaf-74896dc87cf3</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/3944cb1b-d229-4b8e-8cf4-ec155a253917/mOEAx-3GazY52iGng2koGobF.jpg"/><pubDate>Thu, 15 Sep 2022 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/ac49aa30-5b8e-4897-b2a7-3c53747a307a/Podcast-20Bauhaus-mixdown.mp3" length="16797619" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>11:40</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>2</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>2</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>Is the EU delivering on young people&apos;s needs? The youth response</title><itunes:title>Is the EU delivering on young people&apos;s needs? The youth response</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>The EPP Group podcast is back and ready to bring you closer to the European Union. In this first episode after the summer break, we focus on youth: what they need, what they expect from the EU and how they can help us build a better and forward-looking Europe in this changing world. &nbsp;</p><p>Climate change, jobs, health, preserving peace and innovation are some of the topics Jack Parrock will walk us through, with testimonies from&nbsp;young Europeans.&nbsp;</p><p>Contributions from the Chairman of the EPP Group Manfred Weber and MEPs Lidia Pereira, Sabine Verheyen, Tom Vandenkendelaere and Eva Maydell will give us some insights&nbsp;into making the European Year of Youth a game-changer for the younger generations.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Tune in to our latest episode!&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu</a>.&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The EPP Group podcast is back and ready to bring you closer to the European Union. In this first episode after the summer break, we focus on youth: what they need, what they expect from the EU and how they can help us build a better and forward-looking Europe in this changing world. &nbsp;</p><p>Climate change, jobs, health, preserving peace and innovation are some of the topics Jack Parrock will walk us through, with testimonies from&nbsp;young Europeans.&nbsp;</p><p>Contributions from the Chairman of the EPP Group Manfred Weber and MEPs Lidia Pereira, Sabine Verheyen, Tom Vandenkendelaere and Eva Maydell will give us some insights&nbsp;into making the European Year of Youth a game-changer for the younger generations.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Tune in to our latest episode!&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu</a>.&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/is-the-eu-delivering-on-young-peoples-needs-the-youth-response]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">53b00ca9-056e-4547-913b-43ebf498dfab</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/71744eec-11bc-427a-b665-53df8be85326/Fi5j3HHKcK81mXWjH44gfibX.jpg"/><pubDate>Thu, 01 Sep 2022 05:30:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/0658e08e-6fda-4c11-9217-7211dcab97dc/PODCAST-20-20EPP4YOUTH-20-20V1-20-1-converted.mp3" length="35810201" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>37:13</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>4</itunes:season><itunes:episode>1</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>1</podcast:episode><podcast:season>4</podcast:season></item><item><title>The future of EU energy: No to Russian fossil fuels, yes to renewables</title><itunes:title>The future of EU energy: No to Russian fossil fuels, yes to renewables</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>The goal of the Paris Climate Accord was clear - to reduce CO2 emissions. The course was set on&nbsp;renewables. Russia’s unjustified war against Ukraine has accelerated the need for the EU to become independent from Russian fossil fuels.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>The EPP Group wants to move away from Russian oil and gas, while committing to climate goals and de-carbonising the economy.&nbsp;</p><p>So how do we now reorient towards making and storing&nbsp;our energy?&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>To get some answers, Chris Burns spoke to MEP Markus Pieper, the Rapporteur on the Renewable Energy Directive.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Tune in to&nbsp;our latest episode!&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The goal of the Paris Climate Accord was clear - to reduce CO2 emissions. The course was set on&nbsp;renewables. Russia’s unjustified war against Ukraine has accelerated the need for the EU to become independent from Russian fossil fuels.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>The EPP Group wants to move away from Russian oil and gas, while committing to climate goals and de-carbonising the economy.&nbsp;</p><p>So how do we now reorient towards making and storing&nbsp;our energy?&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>To get some answers, Chris Burns spoke to MEP Markus Pieper, the Rapporteur on the Renewable Energy Directive.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Tune in to&nbsp;our latest episode!&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/the-future-of-eu-energy-no-to-russian-fossil-fuels-yes-to-renewables]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">d67d75c5-483c-4f5d-a600-bf591572aa4b</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/37bbc3a5-066f-4e3c-b101-7a494dce3d7a/_3sfiai8EyIm2OOAV79C_Djr.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 28 Jun 2022 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/1ab86859-17c9-4915-8d8a-7a7d64272c4c/Re-20Power-20EU-20podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="22464315" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>15:36</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>30</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>30</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>Economic relief - impact of the war in Ukraine on our economies</title><itunes:title>Economic relief - impact of the war in Ukraine on our economies</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>With the inflation rate reaching a decades-record high, soaring heating and fuel costs, the cost of living is now a headache for everyone. What can we do to relieve citizens and businesses in Europe?&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>With high energy prices, disrupted supply chains and the transition towards climate neutrality, how can our businesses endure these developments? And how do we make sure they do not endanger jobs in Europe?&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Chris Burns discussed these issues with MEPs Christian Ehler, Markus Ferber and Siegfried Mureşan.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Tune in!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.  </p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup  </p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>With the inflation rate reaching a decades-record high, soaring heating and fuel costs, the cost of living is now a headache for everyone. What can we do to relieve citizens and businesses in Europe?&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>With high energy prices, disrupted supply chains and the transition towards climate neutrality, how can our businesses endure these developments? And how do we make sure they do not endanger jobs in Europe?&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Chris Burns discussed these issues with MEPs Christian Ehler, Markus Ferber and Siegfried Mureşan.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Tune in!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.  </p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup  </p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/economic-relief-impact-of-the-war-in-ukraine-on-our-economies]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">6fd82403-e2de-453b-bebf-a07f34900f54</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/5f688bf7-4c64-43c1-b3e0-b7874234d05d/blAc2fViLygM6QMfJBfcFlJs.jpg"/><pubDate>Thu, 16 Jun 2022 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/867cd53b-23c5-47e1-bd06-d102592564b1/economic-20relief-20podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="53424877" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>37:06</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>29</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>29</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>Protect the climate. Create jobs.</title><itunes:title>Protect the climate. Create jobs.</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Last week's plenary vote on the "Fit for 55" package showed that there are differences between the different political Groups within the European Parliament on how to achieve the goal stated in the Climate Law. </p><p>But the goal itself was never in question - to reduce CO2 emissions by 55% by 2035. </p><p><br></p><p>During that same plenary week, Chris Burns talked to a number of EPP Group MEPs involved in shaping this package, seeking a way to make it a win-win for people, the planet, jobs and businesses.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.  </p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup  </p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Last week's plenary vote on the "Fit for 55" package showed that there are differences between the different political Groups within the European Parliament on how to achieve the goal stated in the Climate Law. </p><p>But the goal itself was never in question - to reduce CO2 emissions by 55% by 2035. </p><p><br></p><p>During that same plenary week, Chris Burns talked to a number of EPP Group MEPs involved in shaping this package, seeking a way to make it a win-win for people, the planet, jobs and businesses.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.  </p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup  </p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/protect-the-climate-create-jobs]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">9883c1c3-a93a-4327-8c8a-6bbe7954f53e</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/0c13a67e-9d4c-4d42-a2f1-964f087c1b96/UKQqTV36BvfZgw55Cl6iKYQi.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 15 Jun 2022 15:45:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/49fcda1e-158d-467f-87a7-41b0b04e22c1/FitFor55-20podcast-MASTER-20-online-audio-converter-com.mp3" length="27564546" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>11:29</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>28</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>28</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>The Roots of Westminster Democracy and The Future of the European Parliament: a book by Paulo Rangel</title><itunes:title>The Roots of Westminster Democracy and The Future of the European Parliament: a book by Paulo Rangel</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this week's episode, we will turn a few pages of a new book written by EPP Group Vice-Chair MEP Paulo Rangel. The book is called “On Parliament,” and it traces the history of the UK Parliament to tell a story about how an institution that virtually used to have no powers became one of the most powerful institutions.&nbsp;</p><p>Which lesson can the European Parliament learn from this history? &nbsp;</p><p>Which similarities can we find in these two parallel stories?&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Mr. Rangel was joined at his book launch&nbsp;by the President of European Parliament, Ms. Roberta Metsola, and RENEW MEP Guy Verhofstadt.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>This episode was originally a live event hosted by Anna Gumbau in the European Parliament in Brussels.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Tune in!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.  </p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup  </p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this week's episode, we will turn a few pages of a new book written by EPP Group Vice-Chair MEP Paulo Rangel. The book is called “On Parliament,” and it traces the history of the UK Parliament to tell a story about how an institution that virtually used to have no powers became one of the most powerful institutions.&nbsp;</p><p>Which lesson can the European Parliament learn from this history? &nbsp;</p><p>Which similarities can we find in these two parallel stories?&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Mr. Rangel was joined at his book launch&nbsp;by the President of European Parliament, Ms. Roberta Metsola, and RENEW MEP Guy Verhofstadt.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>This episode was originally a live event hosted by Anna Gumbau in the European Parliament in Brussels.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Tune in!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.  </p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup  </p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/the-roots-of-westminster-democracy-and-the-future-of-the-european-parliament-a-book-by-paulo-rangel]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">ebede287-8069-481e-8611-5252544dcc70</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/d669ead9-ab2a-4ae1-baa4-ccd9cb6dd6fc/2kEL4gSEAS07jttpnK7N4CCr.png"/><pubDate>Tue, 24 May 2022 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/899dad3f-63b0-4444-99aa-e2de4c1f6a51/LetsTalk-204-Podcast.mp3" length="70585398" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>36:41</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>27</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>27</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>Future of Europe: Think bigger, act faster!</title><itunes:title>Future of Europe: Think bigger, act faster!</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Thousands of EU citizens, local, national, European representatives, civil society and social partners’ organisations have spent the past year in discussions during the Conference on the Future of Europe.</p><p>The result was a resolution that was this week adopted in the European Parliament. This resolution outlines most important changes, that people of EU want to see, as well as measures to achieve those changes.</p><p><br></p><p>People have expressed that they want a stronger democracy, a true health union, better cybersecurity, more energy security, more ambitious climate policies... And much more than that.</p><p><br></p><p>This podcast episode was recorded on the eve of the last Conference on the Future of Europe Plenary, as a conversation between EPP Group's Chairman Manfred Weber, and Georgina Wright, Director of Europe Program at Paris-based think-tank Institut Montaigne. They discussed the outcomes of the Conference, its impact on the future and the future steps of the EU Institutions.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.  </p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup  </p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Thousands of EU citizens, local, national, European representatives, civil society and social partners’ organisations have spent the past year in discussions during the Conference on the Future of Europe.</p><p>The result was a resolution that was this week adopted in the European Parliament. This resolution outlines most important changes, that people of EU want to see, as well as measures to achieve those changes.</p><p><br></p><p>People have expressed that they want a stronger democracy, a true health union, better cybersecurity, more energy security, more ambitious climate policies... And much more than that.</p><p><br></p><p>This podcast episode was recorded on the eve of the last Conference on the Future of Europe Plenary, as a conversation between EPP Group's Chairman Manfred Weber, and Georgina Wright, Director of Europe Program at Paris-based think-tank Institut Montaigne. They discussed the outcomes of the Conference, its impact on the future and the future steps of the EU Institutions.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.  </p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup  </p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/future-of-europe-think-bigger-act-faster]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">d18f5eb2-69d0-4cfc-ae38-a65e77fa7863</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/9127043f-e547-4568-9cc5-418c85d845f9/uF3EyAPl9lOxLZfCbRn7TfTw.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 10 May 2022 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/333bc96f-cd09-48b8-b634-9310f480f282/Let-27s-20talk-20podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="23281081" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>16:10</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>26</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>26</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>Artificial Intelligence: How can the EU take the lead?</title><itunes:title>Artificial Intelligence: How can the EU take the lead?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Artificial Intelligence has emerged as a strategic technology that has huge potential benefits. While discovering and harnessing these benefits, we must put the human being at the&nbsp;centre of that innovation. The EPP Group wants clear standards for this human-centred approach, as well as a harmonised, flexible and risk-based regulatory environment.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>The European Parliament set up a Committee on Artificial Intelligence in the Digital Age (AIDA) in 2020, and the Committee's job was to present a European Roadmap for AI.&nbsp;</p><p>AIDA's final report was adopted in this week's plenary in Strasbourg.</p><p><br></p><p>Tune in to our latest episode with MEPs Eva Maydell and Axel Voss, the AIDA rapporteur.</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.  </p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup  </p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Artificial Intelligence has emerged as a strategic technology that has huge potential benefits. While discovering and harnessing these benefits, we must put the human being at the&nbsp;centre of that innovation. The EPP Group wants clear standards for this human-centred approach, as well as a harmonised, flexible and risk-based regulatory environment.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>The European Parliament set up a Committee on Artificial Intelligence in the Digital Age (AIDA) in 2020, and the Committee's job was to present a European Roadmap for AI.&nbsp;</p><p>AIDA's final report was adopted in this week's plenary in Strasbourg.</p><p><br></p><p>Tune in to our latest episode with MEPs Eva Maydell and Axel Voss, the AIDA rapporteur.</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.  </p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup  </p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/artificial-intelligence-how-can-the-eu-take-the-lead]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">70bee2f5-bb94-4a4e-87a1-d98ffe20ca3d</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/a5ceb7a0-3cca-42a2-9376-c5265bbdddee/16iTYU_Xc-IA_bWJtIObNn0T.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 04 May 2022 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/b85ac37c-f72f-479a-8f2f-42fcfc9e435a/AIDA-20podcast.mp3" length="47484025" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>32:58</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>25</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>25</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>End of big tech&apos;s abusive dominance: DMA explained</title><itunes:title>End of big tech&apos;s abusive dominance: DMA explained</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Just a few weeks ago the European Parliament, the European Commission and the European Council have come together and achieved an agreement on Digital Markets Act (DMA).</p><p>The DMA is supposed to create better conditions for both companies and consumers, and bring an end to the digital Wild West where big tech is abusing its dominance.</p><p><br></p><p>For this occasion, Chris Burns has sat down with Andreas Schwab, rapporteur on the DMA file.</p><p><br></p><p>This podcast episode was originally recorded as a live event from the European Parliament in Strasbourg during the April plenary session.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it! </p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.  </p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup  </p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Just a few weeks ago the European Parliament, the European Commission and the European Council have come together and achieved an agreement on Digital Markets Act (DMA).</p><p>The DMA is supposed to create better conditions for both companies and consumers, and bring an end to the digital Wild West where big tech is abusing its dominance.</p><p><br></p><p>For this occasion, Chris Burns has sat down with Andreas Schwab, rapporteur on the DMA file.</p><p><br></p><p>This podcast episode was originally recorded as a live event from the European Parliament in Strasbourg during the April plenary session.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it! </p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.  </p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup  </p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/end-of-big-techs-abusive-dominance-dma-explained]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">2142fbad-3f3b-46ce-a954-951b18523753</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/e014e521-53fe-4684-8b49-b0ffda4f73ef/aiKQVnFJal4o3RaYJOowiZEV.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 12 Apr 2022 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/bfa30806-934c-4cfd-9a51-0d281abca2a5/DMA-20podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="41178539" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>28:35</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>24</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>24</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>War in Ukraine: A threat to food security?</title><itunes:title>War in Ukraine: A threat to food security?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>The war in Ukraine is a threat to global food security. The Russian invasion of Ukraine has an impact on the food supply chain, not only on the European continent, but also across the world.&nbsp;</p><p>In today's episode, our host, Beatriz Ríos, spoke to MEPs Siegfried Mureșan and Herbert Dorfmann to discuss potential supply related and also the economic and financial consequences&nbsp;of the invasion in relation to&nbsp;food supply.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>What can be done to secure food supply? What should the EU's next steps be?&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media. &nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup &nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup &nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup &nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu.&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The war in Ukraine is a threat to global food security. The Russian invasion of Ukraine has an impact on the food supply chain, not only on the European continent, but also across the world.&nbsp;</p><p>In today's episode, our host, Beatriz Ríos, spoke to MEPs Siegfried Mureșan and Herbert Dorfmann to discuss potential supply related and also the economic and financial consequences&nbsp;of the invasion in relation to&nbsp;food supply.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>What can be done to secure food supply? What should the EU's next steps be?&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media. &nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup &nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup &nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup &nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu.&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/war-in-ukraine-a-threat-to-food-security]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">9d74ce1d-99a4-44e3-80fc-d2a0ded80294</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/5f688bf7-4c64-43c1-b3e0-b7874234d05d/blAc2fViLygM6QMfJBfcFlJs.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 29 Mar 2022 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/e8501ebb-7d25-4ca0-9f1e-980e12297cb0/Food-security-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="24054079" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>16:42</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>23</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>23</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>Combating violence against women: What is the EU doing?</title><itunes:title>Combating violence against women: What is the EU doing?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In the weeks leading up to International Women's Day, the EPP Group hosted a series of events on gender equality. We discussed early gender stereotypes, the importance of women on executive boards and women entrepreneurs, amongst other topics.</p><p>In this episode, we are discussing gender-based violence.</p><p><br></p><p>We talked to Frances Fitzgerald, a Member of the European Parliament, EPP Group Coordinator of the Committee on Women's Rights and Gender Equality and also a former Minister for Justice in Ireland; Irena Moozova, Director of the Equality &amp; Citizenship Unit, DG JUST (European Commission); and Claire Fourçans, Policy &amp; Campaigns Director at the European Women’s Lobby.</p><p><br></p><p>This episode was originally recorded as a Twitter Spaces event on International Women's Day. </p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media. </p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup </p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In the weeks leading up to International Women's Day, the EPP Group hosted a series of events on gender equality. We discussed early gender stereotypes, the importance of women on executive boards and women entrepreneurs, amongst other topics.</p><p>In this episode, we are discussing gender-based violence.</p><p><br></p><p>We talked to Frances Fitzgerald, a Member of the European Parliament, EPP Group Coordinator of the Committee on Women's Rights and Gender Equality and also a former Minister for Justice in Ireland; Irena Moozova, Director of the Equality &amp; Citizenship Unit, DG JUST (European Commission); and Claire Fourçans, Policy &amp; Campaigns Director at the European Women’s Lobby.</p><p><br></p><p>This episode was originally recorded as a Twitter Spaces event on International Women's Day. </p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media. </p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup </p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup </p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/combating-violence-against-women-what-is-the-eu-doing]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">78aa8903-9476-4124-a88c-ccf643d65cb8</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/5f688bf7-4c64-43c1-b3e0-b7874234d05d/blAc2fViLygM6QMfJBfcFlJs.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 15 Mar 2022 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/b80e89ed-39cb-4f38-a71b-1bdfeae9b516/femm-spaces-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="55412091" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>38:29</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>22</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>22</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>War in Ukraine: How to stop Putin?</title><itunes:title>War in Ukraine: How to stop Putin?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>The barbaric military invasion of Ukraine must be stopped. The EU has adopted very strong sanctions, but in light of the ongoing attacks, they need to be broadened. </p><p>Join our latest podcast episode to hear the discussion about the consequences of Russian aggression against Ukraine with EPP Group's MEPs Michael Gahler and Andrius Kubilius.</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu</a>.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p><br></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The barbaric military invasion of Ukraine must be stopped. The EU has adopted very strong sanctions, but in light of the ongoing attacks, they need to be broadened. </p><p>Join our latest podcast episode to hear the discussion about the consequences of Russian aggression against Ukraine with EPP Group's MEPs Michael Gahler and Andrius Kubilius.</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu</a>.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p><br></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/war-in-ukraine-how-to-stop-putin]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">8423a142-0c27-4c22-b189-563a904f27c3</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/919fe130-e888-47bf-8e9f-b837725649bd/Ss7bh0YBkdwgkoXC7Co5Bxeu.jpg"/><pubDate>Thu, 10 Mar 2022 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/ec981d56-5b99-4f52-ada3-b79f3ad1dc4e/russia-ukraine-podcast-mp3.mp3" length="36271609" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>25:11</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>21</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>21</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>Female leadership: Breaking down barriers</title><itunes:title>Female leadership: Breaking down barriers</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In the weeks leading up to&nbsp;International Woman's Day, the EPP Group is hosting a series of talks on gender equality and gender stereotypes.&nbsp;</p><p>This time we talked to Maria da Graça Carvalho MEP, Lina Konstantinopoulou, Policy Director at Eurochambres, and Eoin Drea, a Researcher from the Martens Centre. &nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>The topic they tackled - breaking down barriers to female leadership. &nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>This podcast episode was originally recorded as an Instagram live event.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu</a>.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In the weeks leading up to&nbsp;International Woman's Day, the EPP Group is hosting a series of talks on gender equality and gender stereotypes.&nbsp;</p><p>This time we talked to Maria da Graça Carvalho MEP, Lina Konstantinopoulou, Policy Director at Eurochambres, and Eoin Drea, a Researcher from the Martens Centre. &nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>The topic they tackled - breaking down barriers to female leadership. &nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>This podcast episode was originally recorded as an Instagram live event.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu</a>.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/female-leadership-breaking-down-barriers]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">a7c6189f-3adf-4188-9169-3da4708da18b</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/82f76d10-b3ec-4a2e-a86e-828057afb6dd/IOKaW6hfbIA31QhquUhsfdnj.jpg"/><pubDate>Thu, 24 Feb 2022 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/0946b8c6-2f59-45b0-a7c3-a19cec853f4c/femm-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="32044333" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>22:15</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>20</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>20</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>EU-Africa: How to build a win-win partnership</title><itunes:title>EU-Africa: How to build a win-win partnership</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Ahead of the EU-African Union Summit scheduled for 17 and 18 February, the EPP Group has adopted a position paper on Africa, outlining the Group's vision for future EU-Africa relations.</p><p>The EU wants a global gateway, leveraging three hundred billion in development projects around the world and much of that in Africa.</p><p><br></p><p>And we want to talk about that. Talk about development, climate change, investment, jobs, migration and security.</p><p><br></p><p>Chris Burns had a very interesting conversation with four of our MEPs - Tomas Tobé, György Hölvényi, Hildegard Bentele and Michael Gahler.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss out!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Ahead of the EU-African Union Summit scheduled for 17 and 18 February, the EPP Group has adopted a position paper on Africa, outlining the Group's vision for future EU-Africa relations.</p><p>The EU wants a global gateway, leveraging three hundred billion in development projects around the world and much of that in Africa.</p><p><br></p><p>And we want to talk about that. Talk about development, climate change, investment, jobs, migration and security.</p><p><br></p><p>Chris Burns had a very interesting conversation with four of our MEPs - Tomas Tobé, György Hölvényi, Hildegard Bentele and Michael Gahler.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss out!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/eu-africa-how-to-build-a-win-win-partnership]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">65bbf91e-e3c7-4925-945a-eb50562d966c</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/cb93755e-da59-483e-9c43-18158c7fe176/bJW3iAq9cyieFiG2_did_J_1.jpg"/><pubDate>Thu, 17 Feb 2022 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/dd864c65-c3e2-471f-9637-74b7cfb6d605/africa-eu-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="37454135" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>26:00</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>19</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>19</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>30 years of the Maastricht Treaty: Successes and challenges</title><itunes:title>30 years of the Maastricht Treaty: Successes and challenges</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>On 7 February 1992, in the Dutch town of Maastricht, 12 members of the European Economic Community signed a Treaty that would pave the way for the Europe we know today.</p><p>The Maastricht Treaty laid foundations for many elements of the modern EU, with the main idea being further European integration.</p><p><br></p><p>So what has changed in the last 30 years? What are the big successes of the Maastricht Treaty? What are the challenges that the EU still has to face?</p><p><br></p><p>In the newest episode of our podcast, Jack Parrock had a fantastic conversation on this topic with Jeroen Lenaers MEP, and Georgina Wright, Head of the Europe Programme at the Paris based Institut Montaigne.</p><p><br></p><p>Make sure to tune in!</p><p><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu</a>.</p><br><br>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>On 7 February 1992, in the Dutch town of Maastricht, 12 members of the European Economic Community signed a Treaty that would pave the way for the Europe we know today.</p><p>The Maastricht Treaty laid foundations for many elements of the modern EU, with the main idea being further European integration.</p><p><br></p><p>So what has changed in the last 30 years? What are the big successes of the Maastricht Treaty? What are the challenges that the EU still has to face?</p><p><br></p><p>In the newest episode of our podcast, Jack Parrock had a fantastic conversation on this topic with Jeroen Lenaers MEP, and Georgina Wright, Head of the Europe Programme at the Paris based Institut Montaigne.</p><p><br></p><p>Make sure to tune in!</p><p><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu</a>.</p><br><br>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/30-years-of-the-maastricht-treaty-successes-and-challenges]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">54c0d932-54b3-4d58-9db0-da1c72890cf7</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/e10f350d-afd3-400b-9730-83ad7f9ace61/uggwEAFrvOQzzRN2kWI_uNHc.jpg"/><pubDate>Mon, 07 Feb 2022 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/5eb2a158-6fb8-4465-b5a5-543d36400b26/epp-podcast-maastricht-270122.mp3" length="33957546" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>35:20</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>18</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>18</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>Ireland in the EU: 49 years later</title><itunes:title>Ireland in the EU: 49 years later</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">Europe is going through a process of deciding what it wants to be, both as a political movement and as a functioning body supporting EU citizens. At this EPP Group's event, we took a look at how the discussions here in Brussels are affecting citizens of the European Union, and what it all means for Ireland.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Five Irish Members of our Group joined us in the studio - Deirdre Clune; Frances Fitzgerald; Maria Walsh; Sean Kelly; Colm Markey; as well as Leo Varadkar, Tánaiste and Leader of Fine Gael, who joined remotely; and Tommie Gorman, former Northern Ireland editor for RTE.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">We also discussed the future generation of EU citizens. And for this topic we had a message from Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, and we were also joined by Mark McNulty, Youth Representative of the National Youth Council of Ireland.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Tune in to the new episode!</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu</a>.</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">Europe is going through a process of deciding what it wants to be, both as a political movement and as a functioning body supporting EU citizens. At this EPP Group's event, we took a look at how the discussions here in Brussels are affecting citizens of the European Union, and what it all means for Ireland.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Five Irish Members of our Group joined us in the studio - Deirdre Clune; Frances Fitzgerald; Maria Walsh; Sean Kelly; Colm Markey; as well as Leo Varadkar, Tánaiste and Leader of Fine Gael, who joined remotely; and Tommie Gorman, former Northern Ireland editor for RTE.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">We also discussed the future generation of EU citizens. And for this topic we had a message from Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, and we were also joined by Mark McNulty, Youth Representative of the National Youth Council of Ireland.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Tune in to the new episode!</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/ireland-in-the-eu-49-years-later]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">ddc93e22-1126-4cf8-93d9-cb34c0f76b0a</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/1b6ee092-19b7-41d6-90a1-ae8d0a17b13b/LC1ye03zt3qNj_y5mPI9jaXP.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 01 Feb 2022 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/a6cf8d04-5f08-4310-acbf-f6908f2017d7/audio-live-cofoe-irish-delegation.mp3" length="145457251" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>01:00:36</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>17</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>17</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>Cold war echoes: Russia&apos;s attempts to increase global influence</title><itunes:title>Cold war echoes: Russia&apos;s attempts to increase global influence</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Russia and Ukraine are topics dominating global headlines these days.</p><p>There are more than 100.000 Russian troops on three sides of Ukraine. What does this mean? Could this lead to an invasion?</p><p>There were meetings between the USA and Russia, a meeting among NATO ministers, EU ministers and also OSCE officials. Where do we go from here?</p><p><br></p><p>What is the European Parliament's stand on this? </p><p><br></p><p>On this occasion, Chris Burns talked to two Members of the EPP Group, Andrius Kubilius of Lithuania, ex-Prime Minister and Chair of the delegation to the Euronest Parliamentary Assembly and a Member of the delegation to the EU-Russia Parliamentary Cooperation Committee; and Michael Gahler of Germany, a Member of the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Subcommittee on Security and Defence.</p><p><br></p><p>This podcast was originally recorded as a Twitter Spaces event, and we had some guests joining the discussion who we would like to thank.</p><p><br></p><p>Tune in!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group, visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu.</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Russia and Ukraine are topics dominating global headlines these days.</p><p>There are more than 100.000 Russian troops on three sides of Ukraine. What does this mean? Could this lead to an invasion?</p><p>There were meetings between the USA and Russia, a meeting among NATO ministers, EU ministers and also OSCE officials. Where do we go from here?</p><p><br></p><p>What is the European Parliament's stand on this? </p><p><br></p><p>On this occasion, Chris Burns talked to two Members of the EPP Group, Andrius Kubilius of Lithuania, ex-Prime Minister and Chair of the delegation to the Euronest Parliamentary Assembly and a Member of the delegation to the EU-Russia Parliamentary Cooperation Committee; and Michael Gahler of Germany, a Member of the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Subcommittee on Security and Defence.</p><p><br></p><p>This podcast was originally recorded as a Twitter Spaces event, and we had some guests joining the discussion who we would like to thank.</p><p><br></p><p>Tune in!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group, visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu.</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/cold-war-echoes-russias-attempts-to-increase-global-influence]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">9d929acd-f585-4385-a593-51275f7c46bc</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/c97ec3e9-a6d1-426a-a125-19d40dd4751a/NTxtajcV13X1PnlT3U8-x23Y.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 18 Jan 2022 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/459a14ea-6516-463a-b7c8-1fb5582531a2/russia-ukraine-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="56695425" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>39:22</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>16</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>16</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>Russia, Afghanistan, Belarus... How should the EU deal with global challenges?</title><itunes:title>Russia, Afghanistan, Belarus... How should the EU deal with global challenges?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>A new year is about the start but many global challenges will follow us into 2022.</p><p>Putin’s continuous friction with the West, a whole new type of attack on the EU orchestrated by Lukashenko, rising tensions in the Western Balkans, post-Brexit problems…</p><p><br></p><p>These are all the issues which the EU will have to continue handling in the new year.</p><p><br></p><p>In this week’s episode, Chris Burns was joined by David McAllister MEP, Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee in the European Parliament.</p><p><br></p><p>Don’t miss it!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group, visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu.</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>A new year is about the start but many global challenges will follow us into 2022.</p><p>Putin’s continuous friction with the West, a whole new type of attack on the EU orchestrated by Lukashenko, rising tensions in the Western Balkans, post-Brexit problems…</p><p><br></p><p>These are all the issues which the EU will have to continue handling in the new year.</p><p><br></p><p>In this week’s episode, Chris Burns was joined by David McAllister MEP, Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee in the European Parliament.</p><p><br></p><p>Don’t miss it!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group, visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu.</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/russia-afghanistan-belarus-how-should-the-eu-deal-with-global-challenges]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">d7c9338c-c53a-46a4-b69e-26353315ea3c</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/5a7dca59-27ae-41e7-bcd5-434117a3aed2/8rm23RiSQsHm-Z9Tp8lby96S.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 17 Dec 2021 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/db6bf00b-3230-466f-8d97-a3c68b8f4ef5/mcallister-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="40087030" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>27:50</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>15</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>15</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>The future of  the Digital Economy: Creating a safer online environment</title><itunes:title>The future of  the Digital Economy: Creating a safer online environment</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>The online environment is regarded by many as the Wild West. And to make sense of that Wild West, we need a comprehensive set of rules. This is where the Digital Services Act comes into play.</p><p>In the status quo that we have now, big platforms set the rules themselves and criminal content goes online.</p><p><br></p><p>The DSA intends to change that.</p><p><br></p><p>Tune into our latest episode with MEP Arba Kokalari, EPP Group Spokeswoman on the DSA file, and Fredrik Erixon, Director of the European Centre for International Political Economy.</p><p><br></p><p>Tune in!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group, visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The online environment is regarded by many as the Wild West. And to make sense of that Wild West, we need a comprehensive set of rules. This is where the Digital Services Act comes into play.</p><p>In the status quo that we have now, big platforms set the rules themselves and criminal content goes online.</p><p><br></p><p>The DSA intends to change that.</p><p><br></p><p>Tune into our latest episode with MEP Arba Kokalari, EPP Group Spokeswoman on the DSA file, and Fredrik Erixon, Director of the European Centre for International Political Economy.</p><p><br></p><p>Tune in!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group, visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/the-future-of-the-digital-economy-creating-a-safer-online-environment]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">74c813f3-effc-43bc-8876-82f751e6c417</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/f01a7322-ed6b-4f0e-8c9e-8146883432a9/elqy40muCOP4ucUo6ZjfCEPT.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 14 Dec 2021 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/43a5b5d1-eef2-40f7-995f-5965a2916010/dsa-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="35972075" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>24:59</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>14</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>14</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>Belarus border crisis: A struggle with Lukashenko or a battle with Putin?</title><itunes:title>Belarus border crisis: A struggle with Lukashenko or a battle with Putin?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>The flaring up of tensions along the border between Poland and Belarus has dominated EU headlines. Poland has accused Alexander Lukashenko of encouraging thousands of migrants from Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere to travel to Belarus and cross the border illegally into Poland.&nbsp;</p><p>Though the number of people crossing into the EU is far below the numbers we saw in 2015, the freezing temperatures and violence along the border has attracted widespread attention and worry from the EU and elsewhere.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Without a doubt, these events pose a significant challenge for the Union and its decision-makers.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>So what should the EU do?</p><p><br></p><p>In this week's podcast, our host Georgina Wright was joined by MEP Esteban <strong>González </strong>Pons and Ryhor Astapenia, Director of the Belarus Initiative at the London-based think tank Chatham House, in order to try and find the answer to this question.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu.</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The flaring up of tensions along the border between Poland and Belarus has dominated EU headlines. Poland has accused Alexander Lukashenko of encouraging thousands of migrants from Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere to travel to Belarus and cross the border illegally into Poland.&nbsp;</p><p>Though the number of people crossing into the EU is far below the numbers we saw in 2015, the freezing temperatures and violence along the border has attracted widespread attention and worry from the EU and elsewhere.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Without a doubt, these events pose a significant challenge for the Union and its decision-makers.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>So what should the EU do?</p><p><br></p><p>In this week's podcast, our host Georgina Wright was joined by MEP Esteban <strong>González </strong>Pons and Ryhor Astapenia, Director of the Belarus Initiative at the London-based think tank Chatham House, in order to try and find the answer to this question.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu.</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/belarus-border-crisis-a-struggle-with-lukashenko-or-a-battle-with-putin]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">43389052-ebab-41ed-a0e2-2ca4df61631c</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/1de4d6a2-94eb-4e53-97aa-ab9b814d430d/ve3a5fuE0f1btE5ye8vCkcCK.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 07 Dec 2021 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/57ae279d-868b-4517-8f07-dd5489dbdff0/foe-belarus-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="33632379" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>23:21</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>13</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>13</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>The Omicron variant - What is next for the EU?</title><itunes:title>The Omicron variant - What is next for the EU?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Just when we though that the situation in the world is getting safer, now comes Omicron variant. First detected in South Africa, it is now spreading out to many other countries around the world. It seems to be much more contagious than the Delta variant, with plenty of mutations. </p><p>It has shaken the financial markets, there is already a number of new travel restrictions in various countries, so the question is - what will happen in the next weeks as we sail towards the holidays?</p><p><br></p><p>How will the EU react?</p><p><br></p><p>In today's episode Chris Burns talked to Dr. Peter Liese MEP, member of the European Parliament's Committee on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety.</p><p><br></p><p>Tune in!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu.</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Just when we though that the situation in the world is getting safer, now comes Omicron variant. First detected in South Africa, it is now spreading out to many other countries around the world. It seems to be much more contagious than the Delta variant, with plenty of mutations. </p><p>It has shaken the financial markets, there is already a number of new travel restrictions in various countries, so the question is - what will happen in the next weeks as we sail towards the holidays?</p><p><br></p><p>How will the EU react?</p><p><br></p><p>In today's episode Chris Burns talked to Dr. Peter Liese MEP, member of the European Parliament's Committee on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety.</p><p><br></p><p>Tune in!</p><p><br></p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu.</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/the-omicron-variant-what-is-next-for-the-eu]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">329c5e1b-4280-463c-86e7-5f5faca2f94a</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/0099c03e-8f9e-4972-835b-d3c9040867d2/M4siD9wkKXt3CVIs8TYRlvta.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 03 Dec 2021 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/2961c367-6b37-46dd-8d6d-2ca19c671d7d/omicron-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="40096243" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>27:50</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>12</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>12</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>Why do men live shorter lives than women? A talk about men&apos;s health</title><itunes:title>Why do men live shorter lives than women? A talk about men&apos;s health</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Men die younger than women. This statistic is true for every country around the globe.</p><p>The reasons behind such a statistic are numerous, but one of them is the simple fact that men seek less professional help than women regarding&nbsp; both their physical and mental health.</p><p><br></p><p>Why is this so?</p><p><br></p><p>In honour of Movember, the month dedicated to men’s health awareness, we have talked to several experts on the topic - MEP Tom Vandenkendelaere, Dr. Ian Roberts from Trinity College Dublin and Dr. Gavin Keane, founder of MensHealth.ie, a GP clinic specialised for men.</p><p><br></p><p>Tune in!</p><p><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu</a>.</p><br>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Men die younger than women. This statistic is true for every country around the globe.</p><p>The reasons behind such a statistic are numerous, but one of them is the simple fact that men seek less professional help than women regarding&nbsp; both their physical and mental health.</p><p><br></p><p>Why is this so?</p><p><br></p><p>In honour of Movember, the month dedicated to men’s health awareness, we have talked to several experts on the topic - MEP Tom Vandenkendelaere, Dr. Ian Roberts from Trinity College Dublin and Dr. Gavin Keane, founder of MensHealth.ie, a GP clinic specialised for men.</p><p><br></p><p>Tune in!</p><p><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu</a>.</p><br>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/why-do-men-live-shorter-lives-than-women-a-talk-about-mens-health]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">36a6db8b-0ce5-43bf-9833-d3de531a6eda</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/d22485b1-be44-4770-b583-de0c7e7367b7/ya7LXytiVb0_Ex5rLre2fyIH.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 30 Nov 2021 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/7211646a-eed3-4e72-8a9e-8d6bf1f0cd3f/movember-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="45489333" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>31:35</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>11</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>11</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>Belarus border crisis: How to deal with Lukashenko&apos;s blackmail</title><itunes:title>Belarus border crisis: How to deal with Lukashenko&apos;s blackmail</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>The situation on the Belarus border is far from being resolved. Everyday there are new reports of illegal migrants trying to force their way into EU member countries. </p><p>What can the EU do about this? How can it prevent Belarus from capitalizing, hybridizing and weaponizing migrants for its its own benefit?</p><p>In this week's episode, Chris Burns is joined by Riho Terras, an Estonian Member of the European Parliament, a General, and Estonia's Defence Chief from 2011-2018.</p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu.</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The situation on the Belarus border is far from being resolved. Everyday there are new reports of illegal migrants trying to force their way into EU member countries. </p><p>What can the EU do about this? How can it prevent Belarus from capitalizing, hybridizing and weaponizing migrants for its its own benefit?</p><p>In this week's episode, Chris Burns is joined by Riho Terras, an Estonian Member of the European Parliament, a General, and Estonia's Defence Chief from 2011-2018.</p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p>And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu.</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/belarus-border-crisis-how-to-deal-with-lukashenkos-blackmail]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">80f3f974-cc0e-4938-899b-2195214ef4a9</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/74e2e677-49dd-4b78-a86f-7383d8b46835/-xy82dHj7_hzHxcnCMj1O-X3.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 23 Nov 2021 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/a1b3ca7a-7fd6-4415-a3b0-85ca29cd45a9/belarus-podcast-mixdown.mp3" length="33315571" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>23:08</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>10</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>10</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>COP26: What was achieved in Glasgow for the climate?</title><itunes:title>COP26: What was achieved in Glasgow for the climate?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>COP26 in Glasgow was two weeks of tough talks on how to cut emissions to avoid a climate catastrophe. Everybody is pretty much on the same page to do that. But will this COP26 actually be effective in slashing carbon emissions in time before we see a more than 1.5 degree rise in pre-industrial temperatures?&nbsp;</p><p>In Glasgow, Chris Burns talked to EPP Group&nbsp; MEPs Esther de Lange and Lidia Pereira to get their insight into what was going on.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu</a>.</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>COP26 in Glasgow was two weeks of tough talks on how to cut emissions to avoid a climate catastrophe. Everybody is pretty much on the same page to do that. But will this COP26 actually be effective in slashing carbon emissions in time before we see a more than 1.5 degree rise in pre-industrial temperatures?&nbsp;</p><p>In Glasgow, Chris Burns talked to EPP Group&nbsp; MEPs Esther de Lange and Lidia Pereira to get their insight into what was going on.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/cop26-what-was-achieved-in-glasgow-for-the-climate]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">a893b95b-f927-44bd-9eb8-3e1f01eb5015</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/a96d4162-2f2d-437f-9910-837a3aa8a638/5DwmOBwTCHQgWuh-TJ3syDGv.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 17 Nov 2021 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/0ee967b6-eebd-4c28-97d9-e9b1de443c83/cop-take2-mixdown.mp3" length="48784615" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>33:52</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>9</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>9</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>Mental health: A conversation we need to have</title><itunes:title>Mental health: A conversation we need to have</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Despite the efforts made by professionals, discourse on mental health is to a certain degree still considered a stigma. But why? If we are so invested in our physical health, why aren’t we just as invested in our mental health?</p><p>Because of this stigma, we will continue bringing you conversations such as the one in this week’s podcast episode.</p><p><br></p><p>A few weeks ago, our host Jack Parrock brought together three amazing experts on this topic - Dr. Teresa D’Oliveira from King's College London, Jennifer Oroilidis from Mental Health Europe, and the EPP Group MEP Maria Walsh, a vocal advocate on mental health discourse.</p><p><br></p><p>Don’t miss it!</p><p><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu</a>.</p><br>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Despite the efforts made by professionals, discourse on mental health is to a certain degree still considered a stigma. But why? If we are so invested in our physical health, why aren’t we just as invested in our mental health?</p><p>Because of this stigma, we will continue bringing you conversations such as the one in this week’s podcast episode.</p><p><br></p><p>A few weeks ago, our host Jack Parrock brought together three amazing experts on this topic - Dr. Teresa D’Oliveira from King's College London, Jennifer Oroilidis from Mental Health Europe, and the EPP Group MEP Maria Walsh, a vocal advocate on mental health discourse.</p><p><br></p><p>Don’t miss it!</p><p><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu</a>.</p><br>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/mental-health-a-conversation-we-need-to-have]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">547da35b-6bd7-4c81-9a2b-1331e0231c1f</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/fad94800-ae39-4377-bec1-128cc7123d32/HJ1QB0oJywImoCok2rYxnImL.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 09 Nov 2021 08:45:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/60805d16-8a38-4314-a6b5-e1b0510b19c9/mental-health-podcast-final-mixdown.mp3" length="72488779" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>50:20</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>8</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>8</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>Dismantling justice: Is Poland heading to Polexit?</title><itunes:title>Dismantling justice: Is Poland heading to Polexit?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">Even though the Polish Government says it doesn't want to see Poland leave the EU, its actions often tell a completely different story.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Courts packed with politically eligible individuals, blatant disrespect for the primacy of EU law, controversial legislation and tribunal rulings. All this has forced the people of Poland to take to the streets, and has also caused friction between the Polish Government and the EU Institutions.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">During the last plenary session in Strasbourg, Prime Minister Morawiecki stood in front of the European Parliament and members of the Commission.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">We have recorded a recap of the recent tensions between Brussels and Warsaw with MEPs Radosław Sikorski and Jeroen Lenaers.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Tune in!</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu/</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">Even though the Polish Government says it doesn't want to see Poland leave the EU, its actions often tell a completely different story.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Courts packed with politically eligible individuals, blatant disrespect for the primacy of EU law, controversial legislation and tribunal rulings. All this has forced the people of Poland to take to the streets, and has also caused friction between the Polish Government and the EU Institutions.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">During the last plenary session in Strasbourg, Prime Minister Morawiecki stood in front of the European Parliament and members of the Commission.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">We have recorded a recap of the recent tensions between Brussels and Warsaw with MEPs Radosław Sikorski and Jeroen Lenaers.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Tune in!</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">And if you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu/</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/dismantling-justice-is-poland-heading-to-polexit]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">4460af3e-cab1-4e47-a394-43d594859936</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/ad45ff0f-4174-414b-abcb-640c30c7c57d/fYJOFIFAp63EUf0ey1OC9Gyr.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 02 Nov 2021 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/d6055e9f-c0f6-45a9-92b8-52199be06802/final-poland-podcast-mixdown-01.mp3" length="35570960" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>24:42</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>7</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>7</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>The future of employment: Are we in danger of having a lost generation?</title><itunes:title>The future of employment: Are we in danger of having a lost generation?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">In this week’s episode, our host Georgina Wright is joined by Lidia Pereira, a Member of the European Parliament since 2019 and President of the Youth of the European People's Party; Monika Grzegorczyk, a researcher at the Brussels based think tank Bruegel; and Marc Steiert, a researcher at the European University Institute in Florence.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Throughout the discussion they raised some important points on youth unemployment, which has increased dramatically during the pandemic. According to a recent European Parliament report, 1,1 million young people aged 15 to 24 - and a further one million young people aged 25 to 29 - lost their jobs between the end of 2019 and the first quarter of 2021.&nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">So what could the EU do to help?</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Tune in!</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu/</p><br><br>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">In this week’s episode, our host Georgina Wright is joined by Lidia Pereira, a Member of the European Parliament since 2019 and President of the Youth of the European People's Party; Monika Grzegorczyk, a researcher at the Brussels based think tank Bruegel; and Marc Steiert, a researcher at the European University Institute in Florence.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Throughout the discussion they raised some important points on youth unemployment, which has increased dramatically during the pandemic. According to a recent European Parliament report, 1,1 million young people aged 15 to 24 - and a further one million young people aged 25 to 29 - lost their jobs between the end of 2019 and the first quarter of 2021.&nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">So what could the EU do to help?</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Tune in!</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu/</p><br><br>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/the-future-of-employment-are-we-in-danger-of-having-a-lost-generation]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">8851a91b-e79f-4d7d-ba22-a66c3e8c713e</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/bd10d4fc-9197-4278-acb8-d83d6e21b5b1/vl0yM0OfRKX5e3peZGQtYYiU.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 26 Oct 2021 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/d5b4f79d-2efa-4f66-8940-8f619b49cc16/final-jobs-mixdown-1.mp3" length="45559017" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>31:38</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>6</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>6</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>Farm to Fork: The future of EU agriculture</title><itunes:title>Farm to Fork: The future of EU agriculture</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this week's episode we are discussing the impact of the Farm to Fork Strategy.</p><p>The European Commission proposed Farm to Fork and it is expected to set certain targets, including cutting pesticide use in half and reducing the use of mineral fertilisers by 20 percent.&nbsp;</p><p>But - what will be the impact of these measures both on farmers and on consumers?</p><p><br></p><p>Our host Chris Burns looked for the answer to this question with a Finnish farmer, Susanna Suonio, Herbert Dorfmann MEP and Prof. Dr. Christian Henning, who has done an actual study on the impact of the Farm to Fork Strategy.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu</p><br>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this week's episode we are discussing the impact of the Farm to Fork Strategy.</p><p>The European Commission proposed Farm to Fork and it is expected to set certain targets, including cutting pesticide use in half and reducing the use of mineral fertilisers by 20 percent.&nbsp;</p><p>But - what will be the impact of these measures both on farmers and on consumers?</p><p><br></p><p>Our host Chris Burns looked for the answer to this question with a Finnish farmer, Susanna Suonio, Herbert Dorfmann MEP and Prof. Dr. Christian Henning, who has done an actual study on the impact of the Farm to Fork Strategy.</p><p><br></p><p>Don't miss it!</p><p><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu</p><br>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/farm-to-fork-the-future-of-eu-agriculture]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">897a8fb9-1d56-4e47-8cdc-70526c43f7f4</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/c4bef420-54ae-4c57-87e0-ad746dfc5917/ha11r2tayGa0-wOjNGNDXmrs.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 19 Oct 2021 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/7f3a4cdc-37e2-4f8f-8e7f-05c0485d0290/cap-podcast-mixdown-1.mp3" length="40743659" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>28:17</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>5</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>5</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>The Future of EU-US Relations</title><itunes:title>The Future of EU-US Relations</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">In this week's episode, we are bringing you a talk about the future of EU-US relations.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">In light of the recent events in Afghanistan, but also in light of the AUKUS deal, the alliance between the USA, the UK and Australia, which involved a submarine deal worth billions that replaced a French deal on submarines, it's obvious that relations between Europe and the United States have taken a hit.&nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Where might all this take us and what should we expect?</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Our host Chris Burns and MEP Radosław Sikorski engaged in an interesting discussion on the subject.&nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu/</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">In this week's episode, we are bringing you a talk about the future of EU-US relations.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">In light of the recent events in Afghanistan, but also in light of the AUKUS deal, the alliance between the USA, the UK and Australia, which involved a submarine deal worth billions that replaced a French deal on submarines, it's obvious that relations between Europe and the United States have taken a hit.&nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Where might all this take us and what should we expect?</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Our host Chris Burns and MEP Radosław Sikorski engaged in an interesting discussion on the subject.&nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed in this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu/</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/the-future-of-eu-us-relations]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">4bd190a5-3ec0-46c5-b887-720e0f9dc9d7</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/b80f0d24-fcd9-4d99-9026-96c0bd6121c6/eQ1LswD4wWsCUyBWoIyQKCXB.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 08 Oct 2021 06:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/d3d88429-3172-4ef0-8877-bfb98113fd08/eu-us-relations-podcast-mixdown-1.mp3" length="26096579" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>18:07</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>4</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>4</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>Threats to Democracy: Spyware and Disinformation</title><itunes:title>Threats to Democracy: Spyware and Disinformation</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>What do spyware and disinformation have in common? They are both a part of malicious attacks on the EU from the outside world.</p><p>In this week’s episode, we are talking about these two threats. Are your phones in danger? Is that thing you read yesterday really true?</p><p>Our host Chris Burns sat down with Vlado Bilcik MEP, and Monika Richter, Head of Research and Analysis at Semantic Visions, to get some answers.</p><p><br></p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu/</p><p><br></p><p><br></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>What do spyware and disinformation have in common? They are both a part of malicious attacks on the EU from the outside world.</p><p>In this week’s episode, we are talking about these two threats. Are your phones in danger? Is that thing you read yesterday really true?</p><p>Our host Chris Burns sat down with Vlado Bilcik MEP, and Monika Richter, Head of Research and Analysis at Semantic Visions, to get some answers.</p><p><br></p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu/</p><p><br></p><p><br></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/threats-to-democracy-spyware-and-disinformation]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">6576d1f4-b31f-45ed-80dc-1e208bf882de</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/46968842-dbcd-4bbd-b9c0-ea05c61554f6/TvFbFRTZrtNRMJbysFYJf-Bx.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 01 Oct 2021 08:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/df339a4d-a3a5-4696-8e0d-4f30521f845f/disinfo-podcast-mixdown-1.mp3" length="32575987" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>22:37</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>3</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>3</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>Breast cancer: Preventable, treatable, beatable.</title><itunes:title>Breast cancer: Preventable, treatable, beatable.</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Female breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer. Over 355.000 women in the EU's 27 countries were estimated to be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020. It amounts to 13,3 percent of all cancer diagnoses.&nbsp;</p><p>In this podcast, you're going to hear from three women who are each playing a different but important role in the fight against breast cancer. Dr. Isabel Rubio is the Head of Breast Surgical Oncology at Clinica Universidad de Navarra in Madrid, Spain. She has a real insight into what's going on in hospitals right now.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Barbara Wilson is a highly experienced senior HR professional and herself a breast cancer survivor. She set up an organisation in the UK called Working With Cancer, which is all about helping employees and employers deal with the issues that cancer raises in the workplace, providing all sides with education and support.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And Deirdre Clune, a prominent Irish Member of the European Parliament who sits with the EPP Group. She's a leading figure in the Parliament's Special Committee on Beating Cancer.</p><p><br></p><p>In this podcast, we're talking about screening and early detection, the effect COVID-19 has had on fighting cancer and what the EU's role is in all of it.</p><p><br></p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu/</a></p><p><br></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Female breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer. Over 355.000 women in the EU's 27 countries were estimated to be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020. It amounts to 13,3 percent of all cancer diagnoses.&nbsp;</p><p>In this podcast, you're going to hear from three women who are each playing a different but important role in the fight against breast cancer. Dr. Isabel Rubio is the Head of Breast Surgical Oncology at Clinica Universidad de Navarra in Madrid, Spain. She has a real insight into what's going on in hospitals right now.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Barbara Wilson is a highly experienced senior HR professional and herself a breast cancer survivor. She set up an organisation in the UK called Working With Cancer, which is all about helping employees and employers deal with the issues that cancer raises in the workplace, providing all sides with education and support.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And Deirdre Clune, a prominent Irish Member of the European Parliament who sits with the EPP Group. She's a leading figure in the Parliament's Special Committee on Beating Cancer.</p><p><br></p><p>In this podcast, we're talking about screening and early detection, the effect COVID-19 has had on fighting cancer and what the EU's role is in all of it.</p><p><br></p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu/</a></p><p><br></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/breast-cancer-preventable-treatable-beatable-]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">61bb6e35-abb1-4ca8-a629-cfb6a95c5db8</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/d140d5ea-3277-43fb-a147-f749d46dd957/5rMaqkSxiiOsr6Jw76W7DwPw.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 24 Sep 2021 06:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/d5f524aa-d71a-41b2-a9af-65894d04e327/final-breastcancer-podcats.mp3" length="26493035" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>30:47</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>2</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>2</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>European defence: What can Afghanistan teach us?</title><itunes:title>European defence: What can Afghanistan teach us?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>The latest developments in Afghanistan have, once again, urged another global discussion on security and defence.</p><p>And while most will automatically think of NATO on this topic, we can't go on without asking - what about the EU? What about European defence?</p><p>In our latest podcast episode, Georgina Wright sat down for a talk with MEP Arnaud Danjean, and Claudia Major from the German Institute for International and Security Affairs.</p><p><br></p><p>The three of them raised several important questions during their discussion - where and how should Europe stand in matters of defence?</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu/</p><br>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The latest developments in Afghanistan have, once again, urged another global discussion on security and defence.</p><p>And while most will automatically think of NATO on this topic, we can't go on without asking - what about the EU? What about European defence?</p><p>In our latest podcast episode, Georgina Wright sat down for a talk with MEP Arnaud Danjean, and Claudia Major from the German Institute for International and Security Affairs.</p><p><br></p><p>The three of them raised several important questions during their discussion - where and how should Europe stand in matters of defence?</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu/</p><br>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/european-defence-what-can-afghanistan-teach-us]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">0e30d54b-d38c-4224-b339-53e7d84c88e0</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/fb74666e-9b65-4424-996f-3f21db146b3e/grme7pzeAWz7_DL5RcFD1WZF.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 17 Sep 2021 08:45:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/1b453c8c-9530-4b0e-bb09-6c4ae19c7a92/podcast-final-to-publish.mp3" length="31378407" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>39:39</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>3</itunes:season><itunes:episode>1</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>1</podcast:episode><podcast:season>3</podcast:season></item><item><title>What&apos;s next for the EU? Enlargement - where does Europe end?</title><itunes:title>What&apos;s next for the EU? Enlargement - where does Europe end?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Enlargement is often considered one of the EU's most powerful policy tools. But is it the right time for the EU to welcome new Member States? And what do citizens think about it? Are we ready? Especially given the fact that the EU is still recovering from several crises it has encountered over the past decade.</p><p>In the latest episode of the EPP Group's podcast series 'What's next for the EU?', Georgina Wright discusses these exact questions with Karlo Ressler MEP, a Croatian politician, former adviser and Member of the European Parliament since 2019, and Joanna Hosa, Deputy Director of the Wider Europe Programme at the European Council on Foreign Relations.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu/</p><br><br>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Enlargement is often considered one of the EU's most powerful policy tools. But is it the right time for the EU to welcome new Member States? And what do citizens think about it? Are we ready? Especially given the fact that the EU is still recovering from several crises it has encountered over the past decade.</p><p>In the latest episode of the EPP Group's podcast series 'What's next for the EU?', Georgina Wright discusses these exact questions with Karlo Ressler MEP, a Croatian politician, former adviser and Member of the European Parliament since 2019, and Joanna Hosa, Deputy Director of the Wider Europe Programme at the European Council on Foreign Relations.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu/</p><br><br>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/whats-next-for-the-eu-enlargement-where-does-europe-end]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">510eb16e-8f1b-4c2a-a8b3-710eec74234a</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/9a7b7001-d310-4053-95ba-69605a697f54/SjbL73hepc7ZeGIxOEVbPBTb.jpg"/><pubDate>Mon, 26 Jul 2021 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/e311ba6f-62f7-478a-8871-a3a2cb146509/enlargement-podcast-sf01.mp3" length="41460784" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>21:35</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>2</itunes:season><itunes:episode>21</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>21</podcast:episode><podcast:season>2</podcast:season></item><item><title>The online space: empowering or silencing women?</title><itunes:title>The online space: empowering or silencing women?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">Hate speech online against women is a growing problem, which perpetuates and exacerbates gender inequality. In fact, 1 in 10 women in Europe have experienced some kind of cyber violence since the age of 15.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">And many of those who suffered it changed their habits in the online space by: censoring themselves online, opting out of participation and&nbsp; limiting their engagement in our societies.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">On this EPP Group podcast episode, Karen Coleman delves deeper into this problem to better understand: <em>What is it? What causes it? What effect does it have on us? What can</em> <em>social networks &amp; EU legislation do to eradicate hate speech online against women?</em>&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">She talks to - Roberta Metsola MEP, Sirpa Pietikäinen MEP, Councillor Yemi Adenuga, Founder of Sheroes Global, Asha Allen, Policy and Campaigns Officer at the European Women’s Lobby, Professor Sara De Vido, Law Professor at the University of Venice, expert on Legal Frameworks related to Violence Against Women, and Marisa Jiménez Martín, Director of Public Policy and Deputy Head of EU Affairs, Facebook - to answer these questions and give some solutions.</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup/</a>&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu/</a> </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">Hate speech online against women is a growing problem, which perpetuates and exacerbates gender inequality. In fact, 1 in 10 women in Europe have experienced some kind of cyber violence since the age of 15.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">And many of those who suffered it changed their habits in the online space by: censoring themselves online, opting out of participation and&nbsp; limiting their engagement in our societies.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">On this EPP Group podcast episode, Karen Coleman delves deeper into this problem to better understand: <em>What is it? What causes it? What effect does it have on us? What can</em> <em>social networks &amp; EU legislation do to eradicate hate speech online against women?</em>&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">She talks to - Roberta Metsola MEP, Sirpa Pietikäinen MEP, Councillor Yemi Adenuga, Founder of Sheroes Global, Asha Allen, Policy and Campaigns Officer at the European Women’s Lobby, Professor Sara De Vido, Law Professor at the University of Venice, expert on Legal Frameworks related to Violence Against Women, and Marisa Jiménez Martín, Director of Public Policy and Deputy Head of EU Affairs, Facebook - to answer these questions and give some solutions.</p><p class="ql-align-justify"><br></p><p class="ql-align-justify">If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup/</a>&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/EPPGroup</a>&nbsp;</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu/</a> </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/the-online-space-empowering-or-silencing-women]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">aed2e570-5c60-4773-b967-0d626482070f</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/cd3e6eb4-7b32-4e9e-9386-c1612d1c769a/enq82dw6a6X6xe2BftN4Kfi9.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 16 Jul 2021 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/f8761dec-c556-4c06-b7f2-3fd4c115577d/online-hate-speech-podcast-1.mp3" length="94034934" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>48:57</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>2</itunes:season><itunes:episode>20</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>20</podcast:episode><podcast:season>2</podcast:season></item><item><title>AI and defence: Setting the rules of engagement</title><itunes:title>AI and defence: Setting the rules of engagement</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">Defence research has laid the groundwork for some of our greatest technological leaps – including the modern Internet. However, in the past ten years, with the advent of deep-learning techniques, massive processing power, huge databases and near-real time information, AI has started to have profound implications for the defence world.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Yet according to the European Defence Agency, few European Member States have a dedicated AI strategy for defence, instead just referencing defence in their national AI strategies. This means that joined-up thinking on this issue across the EU is challenging. Member States should work together to identify defence applications where AI can be truly helpful, where it might have incremental improvements and where we should be wary of using it.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Jennifer Baker talks to MEP Riho Terras along with Estonian IT visionary Taavi Kotka, and Fabrice Pothier from Rasmussen Global.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu/</a>.</p><br><br>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">Defence research has laid the groundwork for some of our greatest technological leaps – including the modern Internet. However, in the past ten years, with the advent of deep-learning techniques, massive processing power, huge databases and near-real time information, AI has started to have profound implications for the defence world.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Yet according to the European Defence Agency, few European Member States have a dedicated AI strategy for defence, instead just referencing defence in their national AI strategies. This means that joined-up thinking on this issue across the EU is challenging. Member States should work together to identify defence applications where AI can be truly helpful, where it might have incremental improvements and where we should be wary of using it.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Jennifer Baker talks to MEP Riho Terras along with Estonian IT visionary Taavi Kotka, and Fabrice Pothier from Rasmussen Global.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><br><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu/</a>.</p><br><br>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/ai-and-defence-setting-the-rules-of-engagement]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">34df7ab9-1935-4c21-8c74-0f3d3baa9bad</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/ace3c0a6-20ed-4018-9ae9-61ff65e1f25d/HSo7eAEu8IR4kobyuLpTThLK.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 09 Jul 2021 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/12649bfd-2b55-4efb-89c9-0d7c697dfd76/aida-podcast-with-riho-terras.mp3" length="35410462" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>24:35</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>2</itunes:season><itunes:episode>19</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>19</podcast:episode><podcast:season>2</podcast:season></item><item><title>What’s next for the EU: Challenges and perspectives for a new global era</title><itunes:title>What’s next for the EU: Challenges and perspectives for a new global era</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">Today, the European Union is facing many challenges, probably more than ever before.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Inevitable changes are required to tackle the pandemic, the climate crisis, and to remain competitive in a world of turmoil. The EU has launched a new Conference on the Future of Europe, designed to ask the citizens what they want and what they expect from the EU.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">To keep up with the conference, the EPP Group has launched a new podcast series: 'What's next for the EU?' in which our moderator, Georgina Wright, Head of the EU Programme in the Paris-based think-tank Institute Montaigne, will talk about what Europe should look like in the future, with some prominent guests.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">In the first episode, she was joined by Alain Lamassoure, a French politician, and former Member of the European Parliament, and Carlo Invernizzi-Accetti, Assistant Professor at the City University of New York.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu/</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">Today, the European Union is facing many challenges, probably more than ever before.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Inevitable changes are required to tackle the pandemic, the climate crisis, and to remain competitive in a world of turmoil. The EU has launched a new Conference on the Future of Europe, designed to ask the citizens what they want and what they expect from the EU.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">To keep up with the conference, the EPP Group has launched a new podcast series: 'What's next for the EU?' in which our moderator, Georgina Wright, Head of the EU Programme in the Paris-based think-tank Institute Montaigne, will talk about what Europe should look like in the future, with some prominent guests.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">In the first episode, she was joined by Alain Lamassoure, a French politician, and former Member of the European Parliament, and Carlo Invernizzi-Accetti, Assistant Professor at the City University of New York.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu/</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/whats-next-for-the-eu-challenges-and-perspectives-for-a-new-global-era]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">ee09a38f-6027-4582-9d09-12ef0810150b</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/29073481-422e-4fe2-af72-01e1812c90e2/TvY97Up1RP2nimmLIpZdrKFw.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 02 Jul 2021 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/25742840-9647-41e1-bf65-fc431efc4b94/20210701-podcast-lamassoure-alcetti-3.mp3" length="26162991" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>27:07</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>2</itunes:season><itunes:episode>18</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>18</podcast:episode><podcast:season>2</podcast:season></item><item><title>For a stronger Europe together: A talk with Klaus Iohannis, Manfred Weber and Siegfried Muresan</title><itunes:title>For a stronger Europe together: A talk with Klaus Iohannis, Manfred Weber and Siegfried Muresan</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In a moment of history where the world is tackling covid crisis, cyber threats and other global challenges, it’s vital to talk about the Future  of Europe.</p><p>How can we recover from this crisis? How can we defend ourselves from the cyber warfare? How can we create more equality on EU level?&nbsp;</p><p>We looked for answers to these questions in our latest episode on the Future of Europe.</p><p>Listen to our guests Klaus Iohannis, Manfred Weber and Siegfried Muresan talk about EU reform.</p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu/&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In a moment of history where the world is tackling covid crisis, cyber threats and other global challenges, it’s vital to talk about the Future  of Europe.</p><p>How can we recover from this crisis? How can we defend ourselves from the cyber warfare? How can we create more equality on EU level?&nbsp;</p><p>We looked for answers to these questions in our latest episode on the Future of Europe.</p><p>Listen to our guests Klaus Iohannis, Manfred Weber and Siegfried Muresan talk about EU reform.</p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu/&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/for-a-stronger-europe-together-a-talk-with-klaus-iohannis-manfred-weber-and-siegfried-muresan]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">c41f51fd-39dc-4182-b7a6-0a57ef1317bf</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/e6322954-8ae8-4cdf-bea7-29e38d2b1d1b/a3ZP9o34fHKSUsygYyl2su8E.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 25 Jun 2021 07:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/c48c7e56-b570-4f2e-8fa9-1df9ebf14277/podcast-let-s-talk-1-iohannis-event-sf01.mp3" length="83448124" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>43:27</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>2</itunes:season><itunes:episode>17</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>17</podcast:episode><podcast:season>2</podcast:season></item><item><title>For an ambitious Europe: A talk with Jean-Claude Juncker and Manfred Weber</title><itunes:title>For an ambitious Europe: A talk with Jean-Claude Juncker and Manfred Weber</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>There have been many challenges in the history of the European Union, but now, as Europe is still grappling with the coronavirus pandemic, the question in which direction we are heading seems more vital than ever. </p><p>Join us for a new episode of our podcast in which the former president of the European Commission Jean-Claude Juncker joined EPP Group's Chairman Manfred Weber in a discussion on the Future of Europe.</p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu/&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>There have been many challenges in the history of the European Union, but now, as Europe is still grappling with the coronavirus pandemic, the question in which direction we are heading seems more vital than ever. </p><p>Join us for a new episode of our podcast in which the former president of the European Commission Jean-Claude Juncker joined EPP Group's Chairman Manfred Weber in a discussion on the Future of Europe.</p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu/&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/lets-talk-about-the-future-of-europe-jean-claude-juncker-and-manfred-weber]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">e2feaefa-716d-4d82-89f1-3c3b4f7c342f</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/4e303977-3cf5-48f6-96d0-cac261d03f01/HySA-Y5KsStlsdzxOlP2DJUd.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 18 Jun 2021 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/914c4bb7-43f0-498f-96e8-94086b5dbb32/podcast-let-s-talk-2-juncker-event-sf03.mp3" length="87370694" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>45:29</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>2</itunes:season><itunes:episode>16</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>16</podcast:episode><podcast:season>2</podcast:season></item><item><title>Empowering Children: Informed decision-makers whose voice must be heard</title><itunes:title>Empowering Children: Informed decision-makers whose voice must be heard</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>This week’s episode of the EPP Group podcast on the Rights of the Child looks at the issue of child empowerment. How listened-to do children feel today compared to 10 or 20 years ago? How do children in Europe fare compared to the rest of the world, and what more can we do?</p><p>To discuss all this and the potential solutions,&nbsp; we are joined by MEPs Roberta Metsola and Eva Kopacz and Jana Hainsworth, Secretary-General of Eurochild.&nbsp;</p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu/</p><p><br></p><p><br></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>This week’s episode of the EPP Group podcast on the Rights of the Child looks at the issue of child empowerment. How listened-to do children feel today compared to 10 or 20 years ago? How do children in Europe fare compared to the rest of the world, and what more can we do?</p><p>To discuss all this and the potential solutions,&nbsp; we are joined by MEPs Roberta Metsola and Eva Kopacz and Jana Hainsworth, Secretary-General of Eurochild.&nbsp;</p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</p><p><br></p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</p><p><br></p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu/</p><p><br></p><p><br></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/empowering-children-informed-decision-makers-whose-voice-must-be-heard]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">bc3ed2ad-3e64-4b7f-aafa-4e12e142151c</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/fba6b7c6-5cd7-41f4-aecf-0a1d0a80e32d/ExSZznimrZnx6xsCm_5w42yg.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 11 Jun 2021 09:05:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/d76fa7e1-c897-4c9c-b9a1-59821f2168f4/rotc-empowerment.mp3" length="27199837" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>29:47</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>2</itunes:season><itunes:episode>15</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>15</podcast:episode><podcast:season>2</podcast:season></item><item><title>EU-Russia: Tighten targeted sanctions and engage with democratic society</title><itunes:title>EU-Russia: Tighten targeted sanctions and engage with democratic society</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">The EU should support pro-democracy Russians by tightening the screws on Putin's associates with tougher sanctions while deepening ties with countries like Ukraine to show the benefits of democracy, say exiled Russian dissident Mikhaïl Khodorkovsky and EPP Group MEP Andrius Kubilius, a former Lithuanian Prime Minister.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Listen to their podcast as they also discuss the capture of Belarusian blogger Roman Protasevich and the upcoming September elections in Russia. What should be the opposition's strategy? And what should be the EU's approach?&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook:<a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a></p><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram:<a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a></p><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter:<a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a></p><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu/</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">The EU should support pro-democracy Russians by tightening the screws on Putin's associates with tougher sanctions while deepening ties with countries like Ukraine to show the benefits of democracy, say exiled Russian dissident Mikhaïl Khodorkovsky and EPP Group MEP Andrius Kubilius, a former Lithuanian Prime Minister.&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Listen to their podcast as they also discuss the capture of Belarusian blogger Roman Protasevich and the upcoming September elections in Russia. What should be the opposition's strategy? And what should be the EU's approach?&nbsp;</p><p class="ql-align-justify">If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p class="ql-align-justify">Facebook:<a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup</a></p><p class="ql-align-justify">Instagram:<a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup</a></p><p class="ql-align-justify">Twitter:<a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a></p><p class="ql-align-justify">For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu/</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/eu-russia-tighten-targeted-sanctions-and-engage-with-democratic-society]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">fd1327b1-2ae8-4f73-af0c-83b127029a7b</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/e364637b-79da-4210-a01a-e7cfefd03315/op2-OkS7dVrbKApfFTwEMjVt.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 04 Jun 2021 07:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/bc670449-e008-4958-8a0f-fba8e55b0f46/eu-russia-may2021-audio-edited-sf01.mp3" length="68329479" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>35:33</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>2</itunes:season><itunes:episode>14</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>14</podcast:episode><podcast:season>2</podcast:season></item><item><title>The EU’s mission: Harness data and AI to solve global challenges</title><itunes:title>The EU’s mission: Harness data and AI to solve global challenges</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Data is the driving force behind innovation, particularly in Artificial Intelligence. But there are many different sorts of data – from commercial data, to personal data, big open source public data, to metadata – and how it is mined, managed and made useful has a huge impact on how successful the resulting AI programs will be.</p><p>Getting access to the various types of data is a challenge that could potentially be overcome by EU guidelines. But at the same time, data flows freely globally and Europe cannot afford to become a walled garden.</p><p>In the new episode of the EPP Group podcast, Jennifer Baker talks to MEPs Eva Maydell, Angelika Niebler and Christian Ehler about the challenges and potential solutions.</p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu/&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Data is the driving force behind innovation, particularly in Artificial Intelligence. But there are many different sorts of data – from commercial data, to personal data, big open source public data, to metadata – and how it is mined, managed and made useful has a huge impact on how successful the resulting AI programs will be.</p><p>Getting access to the various types of data is a challenge that could potentially be overcome by EU guidelines. But at the same time, data flows freely globally and Europe cannot afford to become a walled garden.</p><p>In the new episode of the EPP Group podcast, Jennifer Baker talks to MEPs Eva Maydell, Angelika Niebler and Christian Ehler about the challenges and potential solutions.</p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu/&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/the-eus-mission-harness-data-and-ai-to-solve-global-challenges]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">0b581dfc-43bc-4080-a41e-4c45735c33f1</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/3b3986f9-23dc-4891-8780-395ddf455a92/QThEmIqVTRCZGVHCZahkvN4A.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 28 May 2021 09:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/7064d6aa-bc35-48b6-b83d-2591744749a3/210517-aida-edit-1.mp3" length="34133300" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>29:35</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>2</itunes:season><itunes:episode>13</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>13</podcast:episode><podcast:season>2</podcast:season></item><item><title>Hijacked elections and Covid sabotage: Calls to regulate against online disinformation</title><itunes:title>Hijacked elections and Covid sabotage: Calls to regulate against online disinformation</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>With malicious social networks sabotaging elections and the fight against Covid, there are calls for tougher regulations to rein in disinformation on the social networks. </p><p>In this EPP Group podcast, MEPs Sabine Verheyen and Vlado Bilčík talk with the head of LieDetectors.org, Juliane von Reppert-Bismarck, about quick fixes and longer-term action.&nbsp; </p><p>As more elections approach in the EU this year and as Europe struggles to put the pandemic behind it, the issue is critical and urgent. </p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu/&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>With malicious social networks sabotaging elections and the fight against Covid, there are calls for tougher regulations to rein in disinformation on the social networks. </p><p>In this EPP Group podcast, MEPs Sabine Verheyen and Vlado Bilčík talk with the head of LieDetectors.org, Juliane von Reppert-Bismarck, about quick fixes and longer-term action.&nbsp; </p><p>As more elections approach in the EU this year and as Europe struggles to put the pandemic behind it, the issue is critical and urgent. </p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup&nbsp;</p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup&nbsp;</p><p>Twitter: https://twitter.com/eppgroup</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: https://www.eppgroup.eu/&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/hijacked-elections-and-covid-sabotage-calls-to-regulate-against-online-disinformation]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">c3c7678f-333d-4c41-94e3-08cf4ba8782d</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/edb06b1f-f69f-4a73-9829-dc431673e21e/8B_-9OFCFmmcF_H3zxaigBq8.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 21 May 2021 05:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/2c8fd243-054f-4da9-abda-969c0c44f982/epp-disinfo-podcast-may2021-audio-2.mp3" length="59174392" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>30:49</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>2</itunes:season><itunes:episode>12</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>12</podcast:episode><podcast:season>2</podcast:season></item><item><title>How to protect children from cyber perpetrators?</title><itunes:title>How to protect children from cyber perpetrators?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In 2016, more than half the child sex abuse material hosted globally was in Europe, so there is still some way to go to make children safe online. We look at the issues of cybercrime and digital literacy. Future generations must be able to take full advantage of the opportunities presented by digital technologies and this means teaching children how to protect themselves online, but also how to navigate the online world critically so they don't become prey to disinformation or conspiracy campaigns.</p><p>We also need to tackle online child sex abuse. The dark web has allowed networks to proliferate in exchanging this material, and social media sites can often be a gateway for grooming vulnerable children.</p><p>To discuss all this and the potential solutions, we are joined by MEPs Frances Fitzgerald and Sabine Verheyen and from Europol, Head of Operations of the Cybercrime Unit, Fernando Ruiz Pérez.</p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup </a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup </a></p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/%C2%A0" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu/&nbsp; </a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In 2016, more than half the child sex abuse material hosted globally was in Europe, so there is still some way to go to make children safe online. We look at the issues of cybercrime and digital literacy. Future generations must be able to take full advantage of the opportunities presented by digital technologies and this means teaching children how to protect themselves online, but also how to navigate the online world critically so they don't become prey to disinformation or conspiracy campaigns.</p><p>We also need to tackle online child sex abuse. The dark web has allowed networks to proliferate in exchanging this material, and social media sites can often be a gateway for grooming vulnerable children.</p><p>To discuss all this and the potential solutions, we are joined by MEPs Frances Fitzgerald and Sabine Verheyen and from Europol, Head of Operations of the Cybercrime Unit, Fernando Ruiz Pérez.</p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup </a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup </a></p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/%C2%A0" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu/&nbsp; </a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/how-to-protect-children-from-cyber-perpetrators-]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">5ed04f3b-c2c3-4058-879d-41699fc07a83</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/809a68dc-aba6-467d-8620-05351158e51f/AYsD0EZ7y0j7HM8uozLs83NF.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 12 May 2021 09:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/929fbcc4-f27d-4613-9881-ba772b3cf102/epp-rotc-1-cybersecurity-1.mp3" length="29616352" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>32:24</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>2</itunes:season><itunes:episode>11</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>11</podcast:episode><podcast:season>2</podcast:season></item><item><title>What&apos;s the future of Europe?</title><itunes:title>What&apos;s the future of Europe?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In a post-Brexit Europe, the idea is to reconnect European citizens with the decision-making process in Brussels and Strasbourg - to give the people their say in how the EU should function.</p><p>The plan is now in action with an EU digital portal being used where citizens can give their views online - the EU promises every single one will be read.</p><p>With the Conference on the Future of Europe getting into full swing on 9 May, we delve into a major discussion with EPP Group Chairman, Manfred Weber, and the head of the Group’s task force, Paulo Rangel MEP.</p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup </a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup </a></p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/%C2%A0" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu/&nbsp; </a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In a post-Brexit Europe, the idea is to reconnect European citizens with the decision-making process in Brussels and Strasbourg - to give the people their say in how the EU should function.</p><p>The plan is now in action with an EU digital portal being used where citizens can give their views online - the EU promises every single one will be read.</p><p>With the Conference on the Future of Europe getting into full swing on 9 May, we delve into a major discussion with EPP Group Chairman, Manfred Weber, and the head of the Group’s task force, Paulo Rangel MEP.</p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup </a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup </a></p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/%C2%A0" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu/&nbsp; </a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/whats-the-future-of-europe]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">97cf00c9-2996-46b3-96e1-2224e524da2a</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/e0e35093-49ec-4fba-9883-ffca0acf6237/S9BX_4L_rTHeR0jTfJQdEtcG.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 07 May 2021 14:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/c9ec4ecf-e5a1-4bed-a661-178fd2d8e238/epp-podcast-cofoe-launch-parrock.mp3" length="23767281" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>24:43</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>2</itunes:season><itunes:episode>10</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>10</podcast:episode><podcast:season>2</podcast:season></item><item><title>Post-Brexit tensions: defending EU consumers, expats, youth and businesses</title><itunes:title>Post-Brexit tensions: defending EU consumers, expats, youth and businesses</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>With the new EU-UK trade accord getting the green light from the European Parliament, the road ahead can still be treacherous for people on both sides of the Channel and the Irish border. Still to work out: fishing rights, financial services, and preventing more unrest in Northern Ireland.</p><p>In the latest EPP Group podcast, MEPs Deirdre Clune and David McAllister give their take on how to deal with the latest tensions, and how the EU should work to keep the Brexit trade agreement from unravelling.</p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup " rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup </a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup " rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup </a></p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/&nbsp; " rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu/&nbsp; </a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>With the new EU-UK trade accord getting the green light from the European Parliament, the road ahead can still be treacherous for people on both sides of the Channel and the Irish border. Still to work out: fishing rights, financial services, and preventing more unrest in Northern Ireland.</p><p>In the latest EPP Group podcast, MEPs Deirdre Clune and David McAllister give their take on how to deal with the latest tensions, and how the EU should work to keep the Brexit trade agreement from unravelling.</p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup " rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup </a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup " rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup </a></p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/&nbsp; " rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu/&nbsp; </a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/post-brexit-tensions-defending-eu-consumers-expats-youth-and-businesses]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">d5b814b8-0b90-4497-a4fc-2ce4628cd301</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/9577ccaf-e814-4986-b7f0-25bf60de37d9/j4AZf_8UYMDtm3_haZ_7gxw1.png"/><pubDate>Sat, 01 May 2021 09:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/329314d3-1ed3-4031-a841-c806a452fc9f/epp-eu-uk-podcast-audio.mp3" length="25702997" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>26:46</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>2</itunes:season><itunes:episode>9</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>9</podcast:episode><podcast:season>2</podcast:season></item><item><title>EU-China: How to manage troubled ties with the EU&apos;s biggest trading partner?</title><itunes:title>EU-China: How to manage troubled ties with the EU&apos;s biggest trading partner?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Should the European Parliament ratify an Investment Accord with China when Beijing maintains its oppressive policies in Xinjiang, Tibet and Hong Kong?&nbsp;</p><p>And after China blacklisted five Parliament Members in a tit-for-tat against EU sanctions?</p><p>Check out this EPP Group podcast with one of those blacklisted MEPs - Miriam Lexmann of Slovakia - along with Polish MEP and ex-Foreign Minister Radosław ''Radek'' Sikorski, plus Noah Barkin of the German Marshall Fund and the research provider Rhodium Group.</p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media. Facebook: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/EPPGroup/,DanaInfo=www.facebook.com,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup/</a>&nbsp; (@eppgroup) Instagram: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/eppgroup/,DanaInfo=www.instagram.com,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup/</a>&nbsp; (@eppgroup) Twitter: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=twitter.com,SSL+eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp; (@eppgroup) For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=www.eppgroup.eu,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu/</a>&nbsp; (<a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=www.eppgroup.eu+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.eppgroup.eu</a>)</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Should the European Parliament ratify an Investment Accord with China when Beijing maintains its oppressive policies in Xinjiang, Tibet and Hong Kong?&nbsp;</p><p>And after China blacklisted five Parliament Members in a tit-for-tat against EU sanctions?</p><p>Check out this EPP Group podcast with one of those blacklisted MEPs - Miriam Lexmann of Slovakia - along with Polish MEP and ex-Foreign Minister Radosław ''Radek'' Sikorski, plus Noah Barkin of the German Marshall Fund and the research provider Rhodium Group.</p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media. Facebook: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/EPPGroup/,DanaInfo=www.facebook.com,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup/</a>&nbsp; (@eppgroup) Instagram: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/eppgroup/,DanaInfo=www.instagram.com,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup/</a>&nbsp; (@eppgroup) Twitter: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=twitter.com,SSL+eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp; (@eppgroup) For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=www.eppgroup.eu,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu/</a>&nbsp; (<a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=www.eppgroup.eu+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.eppgroup.eu</a>)</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/eu-china-how-to-manage-troubled-ties-with-the-eus-biggest-trading-partner]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">f1d26da9-039b-4124-bb93-ad61aaee968f</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/f5ecb0fc-9ea2-489c-a84a-a024d8bd7b95/lU1AyGFHwK6ROYhvboAzBTCL.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 23 Apr 2021 09:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/939b455c-8b75-48b9-8965-b53d12de1541/final-eu-china-audio.mp3" length="27847234" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>28:59</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>2</itunes:season><itunes:episode>8</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>8</podcast:episode><podcast:season>2</podcast:season></item><item><title>How important is innovation in the early detection of cancer?</title><itunes:title>How important is innovation in the early detection of cancer?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>We delve into the issues facing cancer screening programmes within the European Union with a rundown of the dedicated hearing within the European Parliament’s Special Committee on Beating Cancer and are joined by Irish MEP Deidre Clune.</p><p>To find out more follow the www.eucanbeatcancer.eu (#EUCanBeatCancer) campaign on social media: </p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eucanbeatcancer/  (@eucanbeatcancer) </p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eucanbeatcancer </p><p>Did you enjoy this episode? Please subscribe, rate and review our podcast on your favourite podcast platform. </p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>We delve into the issues facing cancer screening programmes within the European Union with a rundown of the dedicated hearing within the European Parliament’s Special Committee on Beating Cancer and are joined by Irish MEP Deidre Clune.</p><p>To find out more follow the www.eucanbeatcancer.eu (#EUCanBeatCancer) campaign on social media: </p><p>Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eucanbeatcancer/  (@eucanbeatcancer) </p><p>Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eucanbeatcancer </p><p>Did you enjoy this episode? Please subscribe, rate and review our podcast on your favourite podcast platform. </p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/season-2-ep7-how-important-is-innovation-in-the-early-detection-of-cancer]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">504cf1a1-829a-4312-a193-824cd0baca09</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/5f688bf7-4c64-43c1-b3e0-b7874234d05d/blAc2fViLygM6QMfJBfcFlJs.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 09 Apr 2021 09:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/c2479272-eb3e-4610-b7ff-7244eca1b9f0/cancer-screening-podcast-epp-parrock.mp3" length="25387052" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>26:25</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>2</itunes:season><itunes:episode>7</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>7</podcast:episode><podcast:season>2</podcast:season></item><item><title>Deadly threats to media freedom</title><itunes:title>Deadly threats to media freedom</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">The recent assassinations of journalists in Malta and Slovakia are the most shocking ways to silence free media. So is hijacking justice to wage ''strategic lawsuits against public participation,'' or SLAPP cases against reporters. EPP Group Members in the European Parliament's Special Committee on Disinformation - Sandra Kalniete and Vlado Bilcik - join Michał Szułdrzyński, Deputy Editor of the Polish daily "Rzeczpospolita" in a podcast with host Chris Burns, to call for more EU action to defend Europe's media freedom.</p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media. Facebook: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/EPPGroup/,DanaInfo=www.facebook.com,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup/</a>&nbsp; (@eppgroup) Instagram: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/eppgroup/,DanaInfo=www.instagram.com,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup/</a>&nbsp; (@eppgroup) Twitter: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=twitter.com,SSL+eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp; (@eppgroup) For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=www.eppgroup.eu,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu/</a>&nbsp; (<a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=www.eppgroup.eu+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.eppgroup.eu</a>)</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="ql-align-justify">The recent assassinations of journalists in Malta and Slovakia are the most shocking ways to silence free media. So is hijacking justice to wage ''strategic lawsuits against public participation,'' or SLAPP cases against reporters. EPP Group Members in the European Parliament's Special Committee on Disinformation - Sandra Kalniete and Vlado Bilcik - join Michał Szułdrzyński, Deputy Editor of the Polish daily "Rzeczpospolita" in a podcast with host Chris Burns, to call for more EU action to defend Europe's media freedom.</p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media. Facebook: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/EPPGroup/,DanaInfo=www.facebook.com,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup/</a>&nbsp; (@eppgroup) Instagram: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/eppgroup/,DanaInfo=www.instagram.com,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup/</a>&nbsp; (@eppgroup) Twitter: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=twitter.com,SSL+eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp; (@eppgroup) For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=www.eppgroup.eu,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu/</a>&nbsp; (<a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=www.eppgroup.eu+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.eppgroup.eu</a>)</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/season-2-ep-6-deadly-threats-to-media-freedom]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">b0ce7761-09f6-4333-92b8-6e1e74dc606b</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/5f688bf7-4c64-43c1-b3e0-b7874234d05d/blAc2fViLygM6QMfJBfcFlJs.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 30 Mar 2021 09:45:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/e7791f6e-a998-451e-b63e-153bbb4130a1/copy-of-epp-media-freedom-audio-podcast.mp3" length="31519497" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>32:49</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>2</itunes:season><itunes:episode>6</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>6</podcast:episode><podcast:season>2</podcast:season></item><item><title>The future of Artificial Intelligence for the EU&apos;s competitive edge</title><itunes:title>The future of Artificial Intelligence for the EU&apos;s competitive edge</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>If Europe is to emerge from the COVID-19 crisis with renewed competitive vigor, the potential of Artificial intelligence must be fully realised. But as with all new technologies, concerts linger about how and when it should be used. Clearly there is scope for good regulation to harness A.I. for the benefit of Europeans. Listen to our EPP Group Podcast episode featuring MEPs Axel VOSS, Anna-Michelle ASIMAKOPOULOU and Jorgen WARBORN what is their take on AI and Competitiveness.&nbsp;</p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media. Facebook: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/EPPGroup/,DanaInfo=www.facebook.com,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup/</a>&nbsp; (@eppgroup) Instagram: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/eppgroup/,DanaInfo=www.instagram.com,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup/</a>&nbsp; (@eppgroup) Twitter: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=twitter.com,SSL+eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp; (@eppgroup) For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=www.eppgroup.eu,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu/</a>&nbsp; (<a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=www.eppgroup.eu+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.eppgroup.eu</a>)</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>If Europe is to emerge from the COVID-19 crisis with renewed competitive vigor, the potential of Artificial intelligence must be fully realised. But as with all new technologies, concerts linger about how and when it should be used. Clearly there is scope for good regulation to harness A.I. for the benefit of Europeans. Listen to our EPP Group Podcast episode featuring MEPs Axel VOSS, Anna-Michelle ASIMAKOPOULOU and Jorgen WARBORN what is their take on AI and Competitiveness.&nbsp;</p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media. Facebook: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/EPPGroup/,DanaInfo=www.facebook.com,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup/</a>&nbsp; (@eppgroup) Instagram: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/eppgroup/,DanaInfo=www.instagram.com,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup/</a>&nbsp; (@eppgroup) Twitter: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=twitter.com,SSL+eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp; (@eppgroup) For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=www.eppgroup.eu,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu/</a>&nbsp; (<a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=www.eppgroup.eu+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.eppgroup.eu</a>)</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/season-2-ep-5-the-future-of-artificial-intelligence-for-the-eus-competitive-edge]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">ab89f32f-d0f2-48ab-ae30-9edf0705b36d</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/5f688bf7-4c64-43c1-b3e0-b7874234d05d/blAc2fViLygM6QMfJBfcFlJs.jpg"/><pubDate>Sat, 20 Mar 2021 07:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/b6a82869-a3ad-4553-abde-3fe00581247c/ai-podcast-on-competitiveness-online-audio-converter-com.mp3" length="27032390" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>28:10</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>2</itunes:season><itunes:episode>5</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>5</podcast:episode><podcast:season>2</podcast:season><itunes:summary>If Europe is to emerge from the COVID-19 crisis with renewed competitive vigor, the potential of Artificial intelligence must be fully realised. But as with all new technologies, concerts linger about how and when it should be used. Clearly there is scope for good regulation to harness A.I. for the benefit of Europeans. Listen to our EPP Group Podcast episode featuring MEPs Axel VOSS, Anna-Michelle ASIMAKOPOULOU and Jorgen WARBORN what is their take on AI and Competitiveness.</itunes:summary></item><item><title>What more can Europe do to beat childhood cancer?</title><itunes:title>What more can Europe do to beat childhood cancer?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>What more can Europe do to provide childhood cancer patients with the best treatment and care available, and support for survivors?&nbsp;</p><p>In this new episode of our EPP Group podcast, we approach these questions in relation to the fight against paediatric cancer, from the main challenges young patients face, to the encouraging opportunities that the recently launched European Beating Cancer Plan will bring to beat this disease.&nbsp;</p><p>Hear from the Polish Vice-President of the European Parliament, Ewa Kopacz, a former Prime Minister, Minister of Health and paediatrician. She discusses the need for specialised treatments that are developed to suit the needs of children, the lack of research, the long-term effects that young patients face into adulthood and the existing inequalities among EU countries on survival rates.&nbsp;</p><p>Much remains to be done as regards the last point, especially when being born in Eastern Europe still means a 20% lower chance of surviving paediatric cancer compared to the rest of Europe.</p><p>Furthermore, experts on childhood cancer, including Professor Jill Vassil, Board Member of the European Society of Paediatric Oncology; Dr Latimer, Managing Director of the Anti Cancer Fund and Professor Carmello Razzaghi, President-elect of the European Society of Paediatric Oncology, will give some clues about the steps that are necessary to improve the prospects for paediatric patients.</p><p>Join journalist Jack Parrock and find out the latest news from the Beating Cancer Committee in the European Parliament and from our campaign on how the “EU Can Beat Cancer”.</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>What more can Europe do to provide childhood cancer patients with the best treatment and care available, and support for survivors?&nbsp;</p><p>In this new episode of our EPP Group podcast, we approach these questions in relation to the fight against paediatric cancer, from the main challenges young patients face, to the encouraging opportunities that the recently launched European Beating Cancer Plan will bring to beat this disease.&nbsp;</p><p>Hear from the Polish Vice-President of the European Parliament, Ewa Kopacz, a former Prime Minister, Minister of Health and paediatrician. She discusses the need for specialised treatments that are developed to suit the needs of children, the lack of research, the long-term effects that young patients face into adulthood and the existing inequalities among EU countries on survival rates.&nbsp;</p><p>Much remains to be done as regards the last point, especially when being born in Eastern Europe still means a 20% lower chance of surviving paediatric cancer compared to the rest of Europe.</p><p>Furthermore, experts on childhood cancer, including Professor Jill Vassil, Board Member of the European Society of Paediatric Oncology; Dr Latimer, Managing Director of the Anti Cancer Fund and Professor Carmello Razzaghi, President-elect of the European Society of Paediatric Oncology, will give some clues about the steps that are necessary to improve the prospects for paediatric patients.</p><p>Join journalist Jack Parrock and find out the latest news from the Beating Cancer Committee in the European Parliament and from our campaign on how the “EU Can Beat Cancer”.</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/season-2-ep-4-what-more-can-europe-do-to-beat-childhood-cancer]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">3de44178-eb93-4cfc-8821-3da9cc6ebcdc</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/5f688bf7-4c64-43c1-b3e0-b7874234d05d/blAc2fViLygM6QMfJBfcFlJs.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 12 Mar 2021 07:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/3cc5ebdb-05d8-4b9d-a0ef-8b5bb072d7b4/podcast-epp-childcancer-050321-online-audio-converter-com.mp3" length="20522769" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>21:23</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>2</itunes:season><itunes:episode>4</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>4</podcast:episode><podcast:season>2</podcast:season></item><item><title>Have social media platforms become a breeding ground for disinformation?</title><itunes:title>Have social media platforms become a breeding ground for disinformation?</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Social media platforms have become a breeding ground for disinformation, echo chambers that amplify alternative news and alternative facts, which hijack elections and politics as we saw in the US on 6 January. Twenty years ago we talked about the information highway, but it can also be a highway to hell. It can potentially be just as destructive as it can be constructive. Facebook and Twitter pulled the plug on Donald Trump after the storming of the Capitol.</p><p>We are talking about the impact of these events on Europe with MEPs Rasa Juknevičienė and Vladimír Bilčík, and co-founder of the Lincoln Project, Rick Wilson.</p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media. Facebook: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/EPPGroup/,DanaInfo=www.facebook.com,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup/</a>&nbsp; (@eppgroup) Instagram: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/eppgroup/,DanaInfo=www.instagram.com,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup/</a>&nbsp; (@eppgroup) Twitter: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=twitter.com,SSL+eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp; (@eppgroup) For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=www.eppgroup.eu,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu/</a>&nbsp; (<a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=www.eppgroup.eu+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.eppgroup.eu</a>)</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Social media platforms have become a breeding ground for disinformation, echo chambers that amplify alternative news and alternative facts, which hijack elections and politics as we saw in the US on 6 January. Twenty years ago we talked about the information highway, but it can also be a highway to hell. It can potentially be just as destructive as it can be constructive. Facebook and Twitter pulled the plug on Donald Trump after the storming of the Capitol.</p><p>We are talking about the impact of these events on Europe with MEPs Rasa Juknevičienė and Vladimír Bilčík, and co-founder of the Lincoln Project, Rick Wilson.</p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media. Facebook: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/EPPGroup/,DanaInfo=www.facebook.com,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup/</a>&nbsp; (@eppgroup) Instagram: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/eppgroup/,DanaInfo=www.instagram.com,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup/</a>&nbsp; (@eppgroup) Twitter: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=twitter.com,SSL+eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp; (@eppgroup) For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=www.eppgroup.eu,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu/</a>&nbsp; (<a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=www.eppgroup.eu+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.eppgroup.eu</a>)</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/season-2-ep-3-have-social-media-platforms-become-a-breeding-ground-for-disinformation]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">d2d62e26-5083-4a5f-a564-456735a60dd4</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/5f688bf7-4c64-43c1-b3e0-b7874234d05d/blAc2fViLygM6QMfJBfcFlJs.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 10 Feb 2021 07:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/999e76ce-4844-4d2b-9806-414bc4643368/epp-podcast-disinfo-jan2021.mp3" length="24335775" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>25:20</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>2</itunes:season><itunes:episode>3</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>3</podcast:episode><podcast:season>2</podcast:season></item><item><title>The Promise of AI and Its Impact on Healthcare</title><itunes:title>The Promise of AI and Its Impact on Healthcare</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, we discover how AI can revolutionise EU&nbsp;healthcare: from prevention&nbsp;and&nbsp;diagnosis, to&nbsp;emergencies&nbsp;and chronic conditions.</p><p>Loubna&nbsp;Bouarfa, founder and CEO of OKRA Technologies,&nbsp;enlightens us about the empowerment of life science professionals with AI-driven insights.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Finally, we discuss the challenges of using AI in European&nbsp;healthcare&nbsp;with Axel Voss MEP, rapporteur of the AIDA Final Report and Eva Maydell MEP, Member of the AIDA and ITRE Committees.</p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/EPPGroup/,DanaInfo=www.facebook.com,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup/</a>&nbsp;(@eppgroup) Instagram:&nbsp;<a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/eppgroup/,DanaInfo=www.instagram.com,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup/</a>&nbsp;(@eppgroup) Twitter:&nbsp;<a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=twitter.com,SSL+eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;(@eppgroup)&nbsp;</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=www.eppgroup.eu,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu/</a>&nbsp;(<a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=www.eppgroup.eu+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.eppgroup.eu</a>)</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, we discover how AI can revolutionise EU&nbsp;healthcare: from prevention&nbsp;and&nbsp;diagnosis, to&nbsp;emergencies&nbsp;and chronic conditions.</p><p>Loubna&nbsp;Bouarfa, founder and CEO of OKRA Technologies,&nbsp;enlightens us about the empowerment of life science professionals with AI-driven insights.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Finally, we discuss the challenges of using AI in European&nbsp;healthcare&nbsp;with Axel Voss MEP, rapporteur of the AIDA Final Report and Eva Maydell MEP, Member of the AIDA and ITRE Committees.</p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.&nbsp;</p><p>Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/EPPGroup/,DanaInfo=www.facebook.com,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup/</a>&nbsp;(@eppgroup) Instagram:&nbsp;<a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/eppgroup/,DanaInfo=www.instagram.com,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup/</a>&nbsp;(@eppgroup) Twitter:&nbsp;<a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=twitter.com,SSL+eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/eppgroup</a>&nbsp;(@eppgroup)&nbsp;</p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=www.eppgroup.eu,SSL+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.eppgroup.eu/</a>&nbsp;(<a href="https://home.extranet.ep.europa.eu/,DanaInfo=www.eppgroup.eu+" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.eppgroup.eu</a>)</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/ai-healthcare]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">297936a6-f877-4687-8ba4-045bb296a64b</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/5f688bf7-4c64-43c1-b3e0-b7874234d05d/blAc2fViLygM6QMfJBfcFlJs.jpg"/><pubDate>Thu, 28 Jan 2021 08:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/7c16f578-357f-4a52-8f5e-36b18703fff9/aida-epp-podcast-210118-montage-final.mp3" length="18089273" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>18:51</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>2</itunes:season><itunes:episode>2</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>2</podcast:episode><podcast:season>2</podcast:season><itunes:summary>In this episode, we discover how AI can revolutionise EU healthcare: from prevention and diagnosis, to emergencies and chronic conditions.</itunes:summary></item><item><title>Cancer Prevention</title><itunes:title>Cancer Prevention</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>Coming to you from the European Parliament in Brussels, in this episode, we discuss how a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of cancer and outline the environmental factors.</p><p>We discuss cancer prevention with our guest MEP, a WHO expert and a hospital pharmacist.</p><p>Our main aim on this podcast is to keep you up to date with plans by the EPP Group and indeed the EU to deal with cancer head on – in particular we’re focussing on the work of the Special Committee on Beating Cancer which was set up here in Parliament just a few months ago. We want to make it all a little easier for all of you to understand.</p><p>We’re joined by our guest MEP from Portugal Lídia Pereira from the EPP Group, she’s also President of YEPP – The youth organisation of the EPP.</p><p>We speak to Joachim Sch<em>ü</em>z, Head of Environment and Radiation at the International Agency for Research on Cancer, which is part of the World Health Organisation. He gives us an overview of the main environmental causes of cancer.</p><p>Finally, we discuss the risks in the workplace and in particular cytotoxic exposure, which is affecting healthcare staff. We speak to Mirjam Crul,  a hospital pharmacist based in Amsterdam.</p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Coming to you from the European Parliament in Brussels, in this episode, we discuss how a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of cancer and outline the environmental factors.</p><p>We discuss cancer prevention with our guest MEP, a WHO expert and a hospital pharmacist.</p><p>Our main aim on this podcast is to keep you up to date with plans by the EPP Group and indeed the EU to deal with cancer head on – in particular we’re focussing on the work of the Special Committee on Beating Cancer which was set up here in Parliament just a few months ago. We want to make it all a little easier for all of you to understand.</p><p>We’re joined by our guest MEP from Portugal Lídia Pereira from the EPP Group, she’s also President of YEPP – The youth organisation of the EPP.</p><p>We speak to Joachim Sch<em>ü</em>z, Head of Environment and Radiation at the International Agency for Research on Cancer, which is part of the World Health Organisation. He gives us an overview of the main environmental causes of cancer.</p><p>Finally, we discuss the risks in the workplace and in particular cytotoxic exposure, which is affecting healthcare staff. We speak to Mirjam Crul,  a hospital pharmacist based in Amsterdam.</p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/cancer-prevention]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">7c1ade84-dfc0-4e56-a361-907c78fb1ebb</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/5f688bf7-4c64-43c1-b3e0-b7874234d05d/blAc2fViLygM6QMfJBfcFlJs.jpg"/><pubDate>Sat, 19 Dec 2020 09:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/da17ef00-5637-4cf2-8344-0249d5b970b0/cancerpodcastfinalmix.mp3" length="41605629" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>28:53</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>2</itunes:season><itunes:episode>1</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>1</podcast:episode><podcast:season>2</podcast:season><itunes:summary>Our main aim on this podcast is to keep you up to date with plans by the EPP Group and indeed the EU to deal with cancer head-on – in particular, we’re focussing on the work of the Special Committee on Beating Cancer which was set up here in Parliament just a few months ago. We want to make it all a little easier for all of you to understand.</itunes:summary></item><item><title>Improving Cancer Screening</title><itunes:title>Improving Cancer Screening</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, Stefan Gijssels of Digestive Cancers Europe explains how better screening for colorectal cancer could save 100,000 lives in the EU every year, and former professional footballer Stiliyan Petrov shares his experience as a cancer survivor.</p><p>To find out more follow the <a href="http://www.eucanbeatcancer.eu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">#EUCanBeatCancer</a> campaign on social media:</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eucanbeatcancer/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@eucanbeatcancer</a></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/eucanbeatcancer" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@eucanbeatcancer</a></p><p>-----</p><p><strong>Did you enjoy this episode?</strong></p><p>Please subscribe, rate and review our podcast on your favourite podcast platform.&nbsp;</p><p>-----</p><p><strong>Have a topic you want discussed?</strong></p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@EPPGroup</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@eppgroup</a></p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@eppgroup</a></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.eppgroup.eu</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, Stefan Gijssels of Digestive Cancers Europe explains how better screening for colorectal cancer could save 100,000 lives in the EU every year, and former professional footballer Stiliyan Petrov shares his experience as a cancer survivor.</p><p>To find out more follow the <a href="http://www.eucanbeatcancer.eu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">#EUCanBeatCancer</a> campaign on social media:</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eucanbeatcancer/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@eucanbeatcancer</a></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/eucanbeatcancer" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@eucanbeatcancer</a></p><p>-----</p><p><strong>Did you enjoy this episode?</strong></p><p>Please subscribe, rate and review our podcast on your favourite podcast platform.&nbsp;</p><p>-----</p><p><strong>Have a topic you want discussed?</strong></p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@EPPGroup</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@eppgroup</a></p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@eppgroup</a></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.eppgroup.eu</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/ep-5-improving-cancer-screening]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">a4154809-9a7b-487a-bf29-090dd528cf0a</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/5f688bf7-4c64-43c1-b3e0-b7874234d05d/blAc2fViLygM6QMfJBfcFlJs.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2020 09:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/5fada59b-ba7f-4947-8713-9dd215625510/epppodcast-ep5-final.mp3" length="14322204" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>09:55</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>5</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>5</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season></item><item><title>Life After Cancer and the Challenges of Survivorship</title><itunes:title>Life After Cancer and the Challenges of Survivorship</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode we hear from&nbsp;<a href="http://www.seaofchangechoir.com/" target="_blank">Sea of Change</a>, a hugely popular choir group formed by cancer patients and survivors in Ireland, who recently performed in the European Parliament marking World Cancer Day. </p><p>We also interview Dr. Benedict Belge, a medical doctor at the Medical Services at the European Parliament, who launched a hugely successful breast cancer support group in 2015. We discuss cancer survivorship and the challenges faced by patients, family, survivors and carers.</p><p>To find out more follow the <a href="http://www.eucanbeatcancer.eu/" target="_blank">#EUCanBeatCancer</a> campaign on social media:</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eucanbeatcancer/" target="_blank">@eucanbeatcancer</a></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/eucanbeatcancer" target="_blank">@eucanbeatcancer</a></p><p>-----</p><p><strong>Did you enjoy this episode?</strong></p><p>Please subscribe, rate and review our podcast on your favourite podcast platform.&nbsp;</p><p>-----</p><p><strong>Have a topic you want discussed?</strong></p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup/" target="_blank">@EPPGroup</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup/" target="_blank">@eppgroup</a></p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" target="_blank">@eppgroup</a></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" target="_blank">www.eppgroup.eu</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In this episode we hear from&nbsp;<a href="http://www.seaofchangechoir.com/" target="_blank">Sea of Change</a>, a hugely popular choir group formed by cancer patients and survivors in Ireland, who recently performed in the European Parliament marking World Cancer Day. </p><p>We also interview Dr. Benedict Belge, a medical doctor at the Medical Services at the European Parliament, who launched a hugely successful breast cancer support group in 2015. We discuss cancer survivorship and the challenges faced by patients, family, survivors and carers.</p><p>To find out more follow the <a href="http://www.eucanbeatcancer.eu/" target="_blank">#EUCanBeatCancer</a> campaign on social media:</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eucanbeatcancer/" target="_blank">@eucanbeatcancer</a></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/eucanbeatcancer" target="_blank">@eucanbeatcancer</a></p><p>-----</p><p><strong>Did you enjoy this episode?</strong></p><p>Please subscribe, rate and review our podcast on your favourite podcast platform.&nbsp;</p><p>-----</p><p><strong>Have a topic you want discussed?</strong></p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup/" target="_blank">@EPPGroup</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup/" target="_blank">@eppgroup</a></p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" target="_blank">@eppgroup</a></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" target="_blank">www.eppgroup.eu</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/ep-4-life-after-cancer-and-the-challenges-of-survivorship]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">faf4d29d-0bc6-4265-9c2e-404c322295c8</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/5f688bf7-4c64-43c1-b3e0-b7874234d05d/blAc2fViLygM6QMfJBfcFlJs.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 28 Feb 2020 09:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/35e566a4-ae2d-4570-ac2a-367441903672/episode-4-fix.mp3" length="15620028" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>10:50</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>4</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>4</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season></item><item><title>EU Commission Launches Public Consultation on Europe&apos;s Beating Cancer Plan</title><itunes:title>EU Commission Launches Public Consultation on Europe&apos;s Beating Cancer Plan</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>The European Commission has made the fight against cancer a priority and is expected to publish a plan to beat cancer by the end of the year, but as a starting point a public consultation on the plan has been launched. The 12-week consultation aims to allow EU citizens and stakeholders to contribute and voice their opinion on Europe's cancer plan.</p><p>On February 15th, the world will be marking International Childhood Cancer Day. To discuss this, EPP Group Chairman, Manfred Weber met with a paediatric cancer specialist. Listen to their discussion in this week's episode.</p><p>To find out more follow the <a href="http://www.eucanbeatcancer.eu/" target="_blank">#EUCanBeatCancer</a> campaign on social media:</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eucanbeatcancer/" target="_blank">@eucanbeatcancer</a></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/eucanbeatcancer" target="_blank">@eucanbeatcancer</a></p><p>-----</p><p><strong>Did you enjoy this episode?</strong></p><p>Please subscribe, rate and review our podcast on your favourite podcast platform.&nbsp;</p><p>-----</p><p><strong>Have a topic you want discussed?</strong></p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup/" target="_blank">@EPPGroup</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup/" target="_blank">@eppgroup</a></p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" target="_blank">@eppgroup</a></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" target="_blank">www.eppgroup.eu</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The European Commission has made the fight against cancer a priority and is expected to publish a plan to beat cancer by the end of the year, but as a starting point a public consultation on the plan has been launched. The 12-week consultation aims to allow EU citizens and stakeholders to contribute and voice their opinion on Europe's cancer plan.</p><p>On February 15th, the world will be marking International Childhood Cancer Day. To discuss this, EPP Group Chairman, Manfred Weber met with a paediatric cancer specialist. Listen to their discussion in this week's episode.</p><p>To find out more follow the <a href="http://www.eucanbeatcancer.eu/" target="_blank">#EUCanBeatCancer</a> campaign on social media:</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eucanbeatcancer/" target="_blank">@eucanbeatcancer</a></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/eucanbeatcancer" target="_blank">@eucanbeatcancer</a></p><p>-----</p><p><strong>Did you enjoy this episode?</strong></p><p>Please subscribe, rate and review our podcast on your favourite podcast platform.&nbsp;</p><p>-----</p><p><strong>Have a topic you want discussed?</strong></p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup/" target="_blank">@EPPGroup</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup/" target="_blank">@eppgroup</a></p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" target="_blank">@eppgroup</a></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" target="_blank">www.eppgroup.eu</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/ep-3-eu-commission-launches-public-consultation-on-europes-beating-cancer-plan]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">d443bcc1-47b0-4bca-9458-aea386e74474</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/5f688bf7-4c64-43c1-b3e0-b7874234d05d/blAc2fViLygM6QMfJBfcFlJs.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 14 Feb 2020 09:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/91359c9c-a9d1-4804-9bd0-c5284e1918cd/epp-podcast-episode-3-v.mp3" length="13379482" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>09:17</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>3</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>3</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season></item><item><title>MEP Reactions to Bid to Beat Cancer in the EU</title><itunes:title>MEP Reactions to Bid to Beat Cancer in the EU</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>On today's podcast, we hear reactions from Members of the European Parliament to the bid to beat cancer in the European Union. </p><p>For the EPP Group, beating cancer in the EU is a priority. The group is calling for more and better cooperation between research centres across Europe, more money across cancer research and to make sure that the same quality of care is accessible across Europe.</p><p>To find out more follow the <a href="http://www.eucanbeatcancer.eu/" target="_blank">#EUCanBeatCancer</a> campaign on social media:</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eucanbeatcancer/" target="_blank">@eucanbeatcancer</a></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/eucanbeatcancer" target="_blank">@eucanbeatcancer</a></p><p>-----</p><p><strong>Did you enjoy this episode?</strong></p><p>Please subscribe, rate and review our podcast on your favourite podcast platform.&nbsp;</p><p>-----</p><p><strong>Have a topic you want discussed?</strong></p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup/" target="_blank">@EPPGroup</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup/" target="_blank">@eppgroup</a></p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" target="_blank">@eppgroup</a></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" target="_blank">www.eppgroup.eu</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>On today's podcast, we hear reactions from Members of the European Parliament to the bid to beat cancer in the European Union. </p><p>For the EPP Group, beating cancer in the EU is a priority. The group is calling for more and better cooperation between research centres across Europe, more money across cancer research and to make sure that the same quality of care is accessible across Europe.</p><p>To find out more follow the <a href="http://www.eucanbeatcancer.eu/" target="_blank">#EUCanBeatCancer</a> campaign on social media:</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eucanbeatcancer/" target="_blank">@eucanbeatcancer</a></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/eucanbeatcancer" target="_blank">@eucanbeatcancer</a></p><p>-----</p><p><strong>Did you enjoy this episode?</strong></p><p>Please subscribe, rate and review our podcast on your favourite podcast platform.&nbsp;</p><p>-----</p><p><strong>Have a topic you want discussed?</strong></p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup/" target="_blank">@EPPGroup</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup/" target="_blank">@eppgroup</a></p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" target="_blank">@eppgroup</a></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" target="_blank">www.eppgroup.eu</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/ep-2-mep-reactions-to-bid-to-beat-cancer-in-the-eu]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">f6d454cc-57c7-4a16-9e3d-487dd132c34f</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/5f688bf7-4c64-43c1-b3e0-b7874234d05d/blAc2fViLygM6QMfJBfcFlJs.jpg"/><pubDate>Fri, 31 Jan 2020 09:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/b855a5c2-672b-4d99-b5b2-6bdd9d72c4ec/episode-2-e2.mp3" length="18089018" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>09:25</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>2</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>2</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season></item><item><title>EPP Group Launches #EUCanBeatCancer Campaign</title><itunes:title>EPP Group Launches #EUCanBeatCancer Campaign</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p>On today's podcast, the EPP Group launches a masterplan to beat cancer. Manfred Weber and Dr Matti Aapro tell us why this is a core EPP priority.</p><p>To find out more follow the <a href="http://www.eucanbeatcancer.eu" target="_blank">#EUCanBeatCancer</a> campaign on social media:</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eucanbeatcancer/" target="_blank">@eucanbeatcancer</a></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/eucanbeatcancer" target="_blank">@eucanbeatcancer</a></p><p>-----</p><p><strong>Did you enjoy this episode?</strong></p><p>Please subscribe, rate and review our podcast on your favourite podcast platform.&nbsp;</p><p>-----</p><p><strong>Have a topic you want discussed?</strong></p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup/" target="_blank">@EPPGroup</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup/" target="_blank">@eppgroup</a></p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" target="_blank">@eppgroup</a></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" target="_blank">www.eppgroup.eu</a></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>On today's podcast, the EPP Group launches a masterplan to beat cancer. Manfred Weber and Dr Matti Aapro tell us why this is a core EPP priority.</p><p>To find out more follow the <a href="http://www.eucanbeatcancer.eu" target="_blank">#EUCanBeatCancer</a> campaign on social media:</p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eucanbeatcancer/" target="_blank">@eucanbeatcancer</a></p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/eucanbeatcancer" target="_blank">@eucanbeatcancer</a></p><p>-----</p><p><strong>Did you enjoy this episode?</strong></p><p>Please subscribe, rate and review our podcast on your favourite podcast platform.&nbsp;</p><p>-----</p><p><strong>Have a topic you want discussed?</strong></p><p>If you have a topic that you would like to hear discussed on this podcast, please get in touch via social media.</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EPPGroup/" target="_blank">@EPPGroup</a></p><p>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eppgroup/" target="_blank">@eppgroup</a></p><p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/eppgroup" target="_blank">@eppgroup</a></p><p>For more information about the EPP Group visit: <a href="https://www.eppgroup.eu/" target="_blank">www.eppgroup.eu</a></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://epp-group-podcast.captivate.fm/episode/ep-1-]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">295f896b-79fd-418c-b41b-f07442935400</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/5f688bf7-4c64-43c1-b3e0-b7874234d05d/blAc2fViLygM6QMfJBfcFlJs.jpg"/><pubDate>Thu, 23 Jan 2020 09:00:00 +0100</pubDate><enclosure url="https://podcasts.captivate.fm/media/14b9e141-08a3-4b4b-be8a-1d692331923e/epp-podcast-episdode-1-22.mp3" length="19311597" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>10:00</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>1</itunes:episode><podcast:episode>1</podcast:episode><podcast:season>1</podcast:season></item></channel></rss>