MEP of the Mandate
Awarded to an MEP who has gone above and beyond in their duties during the 9th parliamentary term. This Award will recognise hard work, dedication, innovation, and integrity for the duration of the mandate. It’s not just the Rapporteur on the biggest files we will be looking for, but true dedication to the institutions.
Brando Benifei (IT, S&D) & Dragoş Tudorache (RO, Renew) – JOINT NOMINEES
Co-rapporteurs Benifei and Tudorache played a pivotal role in crafting the groundbreaking Artificial Intelligence Act, establishing the EU as the first continent with clear regulations for AI. Hailed by Commissioner Thierry Breton, the Act serves as a comprehensive rulebook, propelling EU startups globally and shaping ethical AI governance. Their impactful contributions, addressing risks, transparency, and accountability, position them as key figures in fostering responsible and ethical AI use for societal well-being. Recognising their significant role is essential in acknowledging their crucial contributions to AI governance.
Pascal Canfin (FR, Renew)
Pascal Canfin deserves recognition for his impactful leadership as the Chair of the Committee on the Environment, Public Health, and Food Safety in the European Parliament. His commitment to environmental sustainability, legislative initiatives on climate action, and advocacy for biodiversity conservation, including key contributions to the Fit for 55 climate legislation, highlight his instrumental role in shaping EU policies for a greener future and contributing significantly to global environmental efforts.
Sara Cerdas (PT, S&D)
Sara Cerdas, a public health doctor and an MEP since 2019, has significantly impacted health legislation during her first mandate. Serving in the Committee on Public Health, Food Safety, and Environment, and co-chairing the Health Working Group, she actively shapes policies to enhance public health. Cerdas has played a crucial role in key reports like the “EU4Health Programme” and “Serious cross-border threats to health,” showcasing her commitment to addressing health challenges. Her proactive stance, recognised through awards and nominations such as the 2020 MEP Award winner on health, underscores her impactful contributions to advancing health legislation in the European Parliament.
Frances Fitzgerald (IE, EPP)
Frances Fitzgerald, an MEP since 2019 and member of the European Parliament’s Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality, has been a staunch advocate for women’s rights. As the lead negotiator, she played a pivotal role in shaping the first-ever piece of EU legislation to combat violence against women. Fitzgerald’s proposal included standardised minimum standards for crimes, victim support measures, and common definitions for rape across Europe. She consistently champions gender equality, pushing for a comprehensive directive to ensure uniform treatment of violence against women across EU Member States, fostering a united front against gender-based violence.
Bernd Lange (DE, S&D)
Bernd Lange, currently serving as the Chair of the INTA Committee, has been an MEP since 1994. Throughout his extensive tenure, he has showcased a commendable record of impactful legislative contributions and a steadfast commitment to fostering dialogue and meaningful policies within the European Parliament. Since 2019, Lange has continued to shape European policies, holding key roles in the Conference of Committee Chairs and the Contact Group on the EU Vaccine Strategy. His involvement in the Fair-Trade Working Group, Brexit/EU-UK Coordination Group, and the ASEAN Delegation underscores his dedication to global cooperation. These activities have reinforced his influential role in the Parliament.
Jutta Paulus (DE, Greens/EFA)
Jutta Paulus, a first-term MEP for the Greens, has been a driving force in shaping the EU’s climate policies, notably contributing to the Fit for 55 climate package. As a member of the Parliament’s environment committee, she has actively engaged in negotiations on critical climate and environment proposals. Paulus, a licensed pharmacist, has brought a unique perspective to her role. Advocating for sustainable fuels and pushing for maritime transport inclusion in the Emissions Trading System, her impactful contributions have highlighted her commitment to addressing climate challenges in the European Parliament.
Christel Schaldemose (DK, S&D) & Andreas Schwab (DE, EPP) – JOINT NOMINEES
Christel Schaldemose, a Danish Social Democrat, and Andreas Schwab, a German member of the European People’s Party, have played pivotal roles in shaping Europe’s digital rules. Schaldemose, primarily focused on consumer protection, redirected her expertise to the Digital Services Act (DSA), emphasising governance for online marketplaces. Schwab, with a history of challenging Big Tech, led efforts on the Digital Markets Act (DMA), advocating for ‘ex ante’ competition rules for major tech players. Their combined influence led to the European Parliament’s historic approval, marking a significant step in regulating digital platforms and ensuring fair and accountable online markets.
Nils Torvalds (FI, Renew)
Nils Torvalds, a dedicated advocate for the circular economy and EU industrial competitiveness, played a pivotal role in shaping the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation. As a pragmatic legislator and Renew Europe political group coordinator, he champions harmonised rules for cross-border business, aligning with climate goals while safeguarding EU industry competitiveness. Torvalds’ substantial contributions reflect his commitment to fostering a circular economy and addressing key challenges within the European Parliament. As a long-serving MEP, Torvalds continues to contribute significantly to European cooperation and policymaking.