What Nikolina spoke about.

12

Nov

2025

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The new 2028-2034 Multiannual Financial Framework: architecture and governance (debate)

Dear Chair, I welcome the readiness of the European Commission to hear and adjust its proposal for a new budget. The letter from the President of the European Commission is a positive and much-needed signal. It shows that our views in Parliament have been taken on board to a great extent. The introduction of such a rural objective is an important step towards a fairer distribution of funds. This is a message to farmers, but also to rural communities that Europe sees them, that their role in the food industry and the preservation of space is not secondary, but fundamental. At the same time, the proposal to improve Parliament’s role is not ambitious enough. That is why I see this proposal as an opportunity to make the new budget not only an investment tool, but also an expression of trust between the institutions and European citizens.

22

Oct

2025

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Preparation of the European Council meeting of 23 October 2025 (debate)

Before the upcoming European Council, I would like to highlight the three key priorities that must shape our joint decisions: defence, competitiveness and affordable housing. Europe needs to become security and industrially self-sustaining. As future EPP rapporteur for the European Competitiveness Fund, with a dedicated programme for defence research and innovation, I believe that it is through investments in innovation, technology and the European defence industry that we strengthen not only security but also the competitiveness of our economy. But security must not only be seen through the defence of borders, but also through the social security of citizens. The affordable housing crisis threatens our social cohesion. Coordinated investments from European Investment Bank cohesion funds and national funds are needed to increase housing supply and reduce the gap between prices and opportunities for citizens. Ultimately, defence, competitiveness and housing are not separate policies, they are the foundation of European resilience.

21

Oct

2025

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Commission Work Programme 2026 (debate)

Dear Chair, Commissioner, we see many important initiatives in the Commission Work Programme for 2026, but I would like to pay particular attention to affordable housing. Short-term rentals have a strong impact on the price of real estate and long-term rentals across Europe, and many cities are becoming one of the main reasons for the lack of affordable housing for the local population. That is why I welcome the announcement of the adoption of a new initiative on short-term rentals. But I would like to point out that it is crucial that this is a legislative proposal, a proposal that will allow Member States, regions and cities to determine, on the basis of precise data, measures to ensure a balance between tourism and affordable housing based on their unique priorities and potential, as we cannot have the same measures for each city or region. A legislative solution is needed to address problems that burden local communities immediately. Croatia has a good example through the Law in Tourism where cities can ensure this balance based on the calculation of carrying capacities. Next year, the Commission will also publish a European Union strategy for sustainable tourism, which must become the basis for shaping a European model of sustainable tourism for the future, one that takes into account both economic, social and environmental aspects. Sustainable tourism is a question of the quality of life of local communities, accessible housing and the preservation of cultural identity. I therefore call on the Commission to present a legislative solution for short-term rentals as soon as possible, so that the problems that burden local communities in tourist destinations can be addressed immediately.

9

Oct

2025

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World Mental Health Day - addressing the socio-economic factors (debate)

(start of speech outside the microphone range) ...who face mental health problems. And we have to make that clear. Today's young people are growing up in a digital world that brings them unlimited access to information, but also immense pressure, bullying and other threats. As a mother, I see how much digital networks have become the everyday life of our children, but also how strongly they affect their self-confidence, concentration and sense of belonging. Instead of being connected, they often create isolation. This is why Europe must ensure systematic support for young people's mental health in all Member States through schools, local communities and digital literacy and a safer online environment. Our response must be education, prevention and available professional assistance.

8

Oct

2025

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Second World Summit for Social Development (debate)

Dear Chair, Commissioners, dear colleagues, second world Summit on social development takes place at a crucial moment. Around the world, but also in Europe, citizens are facing growing inequalities, an affordable housing crisis and pressures on sustainable development. This Summit It is an opportunity for Europe to reaffirm its leadership role. The European Union is undoubtedly a global leader when it comes to social rights - from workers' rights, to the fight against poverty, to social cohesion. While other major powers are still discussing minimum standards, Europe has set and developed these standards as the foundation of our social model. As a Member of the European Parliament working on affordable housing and sustainable tourism, I am convinced that it is our experience that shows that social rights are not a cost, but an investment in a fairer and more resilient society. Therefore, our task at summit on social development it is clear to say: Europe remains at the forefront, and the rest must follow our path.

6

Oct

2025

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Role of EU policies in shaping the European Sport Model (debate)

Dear Chairman, Commissioner, sport is not just medals, it is the foundation of unity, health and equal opportunities for all. But for sport to remain accessible to everyone, it must be supported at all levels - from local, national, to European policies. I have repeatedly pointed out in my letters to the European Commission that it is necessary to ensure dedicated funding for local sports infrastructure in the next European budget. So it's not about stadiums, it's about local sports infrastructure. The same goes for local sports programs. They must be recognised as a measure of the European Social Fund through vouchers that will enable children to play sport, especially those at risk of poverty or exclusion. Therefore, we need to invest exactly where sport makes the biggest difference: in local halls, playgrounds, courts and programmes available for children, young people and people with disabilities. Sport is not a cost. Sport is an investment in public health, education, social cohesion and the future of our children. Every euro invested in sport returns five euros through economic and social benefits. If we really want to reduce inequalities and prevent social exclusion, sport must be an integral part of the European Strategy for Combating Poverty and the Child Guarantee.

9

Sep

2025

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Cohesion policy (joint debate)

Dear President, Commissioner, dear colleagues, today young people remain living with their parents because they cannot afford rent, and families in cities spend too much of their income on housing. This is the reality of millions of our citizens in the European Union. Cohesion policy must be a tool to respond to these needs. That is why I have also proposed concrete measures. First, that investment in affordable housing is recognised as an investment in our climate objectives, making it easier to finance affordable housing in Member States, which has not been the case so far. Second, I stressed the need to better integrate the Social Climate Fund with cohesion policy to make investments in social housing and targeted assistance to young people for affordable rents faster and more efficient. And third, through the ESF+, I proposed to finance housing allowances and social inclusion measures linked to affordable housing. The report we are discussing today clearly calls for extending the scope of the Cohesion Fund not only to energy efficiency and renewable energy sources, but also to innovative approaches that increase housing affordability. This report provides a strong basis for the European Commission to draw up a European affordable housing plan announced for next year. If we want to preserve competitiveness, demographic balance and social fairness, we need to treat housing strategically, because home is not a luxury, home is a fundamental need and a right for every citizen.

8

Sep

2025

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Public procurement (debate)

Dear Chairman, Commissioner, the biggest obstacle to the implementation of projects today is too long and too complicated public procurement procedures. They often last more than six months, and any complaint means additional delays and loss of money. If we rely exclusively on a lower price, we lose quality, encourage poor working conditions and pay more in the long run. It is time to seriously apply the criterion of the most economically advantageous offer, to look at the entire life cycle of the product, innovation, sustainability and social value. I therefore strongly support this report as it calls for a revision of the outdated rules that have been holding back our development for 11 years. The Commission should have reacted earlier, so we need a reform of the European Union's public procurement that, at the same time, will simplify procedures, increase transparency and provide fair access for small and medium-sized enterprises.

10

Jul

2025

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European Citizens' Initiative 'Cohesion policy for the equality of the regions and sustainability of the regional cultures' (debate)

The European Citizens' Initiative is a strong reminder that the Union is a community of diverse identities, languages and traditions. Equal access to funds and targeted investments in regions must not be a matter of goodwill, it must be an obligation. Preserving diversity in the Union comes not only through declarations, but also through concrete projects in education, culture, language, entrepreneurship and rural development. I call on the Commission to take this initiative seriously and offer concrete measures, whether legislative or operational, that will make cohesion visible in every region and protect the richness of Europe's cultural diversity.

17

Jun

2025

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Latest developments on the revision of the air passenger rights and airline liability regulations (debate)

Dear Chairman, Commissioner, air transport is crucial for the connectivity of European regions, especially for countries such as Croatia that depend on tourism and the availability of remote and island areas. But this connection must go hand in hand with respect for passenger rights. I welcome the political shift in the Council and the progress towards strengthening passenger rights, but we cannot ignore the parallel attempts to reduce existing rights to compensation. So I want to make it clear: Reducing passenger rights would be a step backwards. The right to compensation after three hours of delay exists for years and must remain intact. Travellers deserve legal certainty, clear rules and simple mechanisms to exercise their rights, not new barriers. I also welcome the new rules regarding assistance to passengers, boarding on return flights and better information. At the same time, we need to be aware of the challenges facing the aviation industry, from geopolitical instability to the energy crisis to the great pressure on sustainability. Airlines must have realistic, enforceable commitments that will not further jeopardise their liquidity. The legal framework must therefore be stable but also flexible in exceptional circumstances. Finally, I would like to say that I am committed to a balanced approach, one that protects passengers but ensures the sustainability of our sector.

17

Jun

2025

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EU framework conditions for competitive, efficient and sustainable public transport services at all levels (debate)

Dear Chairman, Commissioner, accessible, high-quality, sustainable, integrated public transport is the basis for greater mobility of citizens and the climate goals of the Union, especially in countries such as Croatia where we need to connect islands, the coast, but also the continental part. In particular, I would like to highlight the importance of integrated public transport, as only by connecting different modes of transport such as buses, railways and trams can we offer citizens a real alternative to car transport. Unfortunately, the capital of Croatia, Zagreb, where I live today, has neither a vision nor concrete steps towards creating such a system. An integrated model such as a single ticket, timetable, intermodal terminals, multiple lines, real intermodal hubs, urban and suburban rail integration is missing. Rail is the key. The City of Zagreb does not need superficial measures, it needs strategic intervention and investment in a reliable, connected and digitally integrated public transport network. That is why I strongly support the establishment of a European framework that will provide concrete but effective services. I support a European framework that offers stable funding, support through CEF and cohesion policy funds to Member States. Public transport must be coherent, digitally integrated and accessible to all, regardless of age, income or place of residence. But it is equally important to enable flexible service models, including public-private partnerships, to ensure the long-term sustainability but also the resilience of our sector.

17

Jun

2025

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Implementation report on the Recovery and Resilience Facility (debate)

Dear Chair, Commissioner, the Recovery and Resilience Facility has proven to be the most important investment tool of the European Union after the pandemic, and Croatia is among the Member States that made the best use of this opportunity, so that I educate my colleague Bosanac and Green. Across the country, it invests in health infrastructure, equipment for oncology patients, education, schools, kindergartens, energy, gas pipelines, LNG terminals, but also green and digital tourism because Croatia has opted for sustainable tourism, for investment in renewable energy sources. This is the path that Croatia is fighting against mass tourism, for environmental protection, for the protection of the life of the local population and in times of corona should have helped the most vulnerable, which is the economy. I understand that my colleague Bosanac does not understand this, that it is precisely necessary to invest in the economy and that this is the key, and the Croatian example shows that the Recovery and Resilience Facility brings real results when there is strategic leadership and commitment to reforms. All reform projects initiated must continue and I strongly support the extension of the project implementation.

6

May

2025

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A revamped long-term budget for the Union in a changing world (debate)

Dear Chairman, Dear Commissioner, dear colleagues, the world has changed. Crises are the rule, not the exception. We therefore need a multiannual budget that is realistic but also ambitious. As the coordinator of the European Parliament, the European people in the HOUS Committee, I particularly welcome the report, which recognises the housing crises affecting millions of citizens. Without accessible and dignified housing, all our goals remain incomplete. Without adequate investment in affordable housing, we risk deepening social inequality and losing citizens' trust in the European project. Therefore, I would stress the importance of investing in the balanced development of regions through cohesion policy and transport and energy connectivity. These are not old priorities, they are the foundations of European resilience.

5

May

2025

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Ninth report on economic and social cohesion (debate)

2

Apr

2025

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The importance of trans-European transport infrastructure in times of stalling economic growth and major threats to Europe’s security (debate)

Dear Chair, Commissioner, faced today with a slowdown in economic growth and security challenges, I think it is clear to everyone how important the trans-European transport networks are. Building a reliable, sustainable transport network is key to economic resilience, national security, but also to effective crisis management. Recent geopolitical developments in Ukraine have clearly demonstrated the importance of having built trans-European transport corridors. Well-integrated rail connections and ports are important for exactly what our citizens need: the continuity of supply chains and the diversification of energy sources. That is why I would like to stress the importance of establishing a new trans-European transport corridor, the Adriatic-Ionian TEN-T corridor. This corridor would connect key ports from Italy to Greece and would not only contribute to reducing emissions by boosting rail and maritime transport, but is also important because it connects Central and South-Eastern Europe and also integrates candidate countries such as Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Albania. Furthermore, the TEN-T network must fulfil a dual function, civilian and military. In times of growing security threats, we must be aware that the transport of military capabilities is as important as the economic aspect. Therefore, I invite the European Commission, as well as all of you present here, to recognize the strategically important importance and support further steps towards the realization of this important infrastructure project.

2

Apr

2025

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Topical debate (Rule 169) - Social Europe: making life affordable, protecting jobs, wages and health for all

Dear President, Commissioner, dear colleagues, across Europe there are more and more people, especially young people and families with children, who cannot find a dignified home at a reasonable price, but give too much of their income just to have a roof over their heads. In some Member States, households spend more than 40% of their income specifically on housing, which has a direct impact on quality of life and social inclusion. This is a challenge to which the European Union must respond in solidarity but also responsibly. Cities must already use all that is available to them, such as the Urban Development Fund and the European Investment Bank, to support the construction of affordable housing, especially in the most pressured urban environments. We have almost 13 million unemployed people in the European Union, and many employers report a shortage of skilled labour at the same time. Therefore, we need strong support for employment through education, lifelong learning and encouraging entrepreneurship because only a strong economy can provide quality jobs and fair wages in the long run. We must strive to build a Europe that cares, but also a Europe that empowers, builds and invests responsibly in people and communities.

1

Apr

2025

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Improving the implementation of cohesion policy through the mid-term review to achieve a robust cohesion policy post 2027 (debate)

Today, Commissioner, we are not only discussing the mid-term review, but also the future of cohesion policy. It must be clearly geared towards addressing affordable housing, the demographic crisis and the economic development of our regions. If we want our regions not to develop, if we want depopulation, then there is no investment in cohesion policy, but I am sure that this is not the policy or direction of this European Commission. If we want to increase investment in affordable housing through cohesion policy now, allow for a change Common Provisions Regulation Code 126, Annex I, where the current climate impact on affordable housing is 0, and afforded housing is a climate-relevant investment. Therefore, with this move, you immediately influence the use of cohesion for housing. Cohesion needs to be flexible, which means it serves our businessmen, our farmers and ultimately our citizens.

12

Mar

2025

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Union of Skills: striving for more and better opportunities to study, train or work in the EU and to bring our talents back home (debate)

The European Union is undergoing major challenges, the digital and green transitions and demographic change, while preserving competitiveness. The key to success in all these processes are people: educated, skilled and ready to adapt to new labour market requirements and new technologies. But the data is devastating. Only 40% of adults participate in training programmes, with the target set for 2030. 60%. This means investing in education, digital skills and STEM, but also ensuring better conditions for talent development in Europe. In this context, I would like to highlight the positive steps taken by the Croatian Government by investing significant resources in lifelong learning programmes and the development of digital skills. I therefore support this initiative and believe that the Union of Skills will contribute to creating a fairer and more prosperous society.

12

Mar

2025

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Action Plan for the Automotive Industry (debate)

Dear Chairman, Commissioner, the automotive industry is not only an economic pillar, but also a key driver of innovation. It is facing global competition, technological change and the necessary green transition. Commissioner, I welcome the action plan providing €1.8 billion to create a secure and competitive supply chain for battery raw materials, which will contribute to our strategic autonomy. Electrification is an important direction, but we must not neglect the role of alternative fuels and hydrogen. The European automotive industry can be at the forefront of innovation, but only if we create fair conditions in the global market, prevent unfair competition from third countries and provide incentives for clean mobility. If we want the next generation of vehicles to be manufactured in Europe, we must now act with vision, courage and responsibility.

11

Mar

2025

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Roadmap for Women`s Rights (debate)

The Honourable Chair, Commissioners, dear colleagues, the plan for women's rights points to the tragic fact that in the European Union, which is an example of respect for women's rights, we still face too much violence against women. A study published in November last year shows that violence against women is still almost common, even in Europe. One in three women has experienced physical or sexual violence in adulthood, and one in five has faced domestic violence. And while older forms of violence against women have not been eradicated, unfortunately we are witnessing new ones. The latest annual report on gender equality shows that cyberviolence against women has become ubiquitous. As of 2023, 97% of online child sexual abuse reports were related to sexual abuse of girls. The European Union has the most advanced legislation covering protection against cyber violence, including violence based on unethical use of AI, but legislation alone is not enough. We need to educate women, and girls in particular, to empower ourselves with regard to violence of all kinds, including online and social media violence. As Members of Parliament, we must do everything in our power to make women feel safe and free.

12

Feb

2025

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US withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement, the World Health Organisation and the suspension of US development and humanitarian aid (debate)

Dear Chairman, the US decision to withdraw from the Paris Agreement and the World Health Organization reminds us of one key thing. Europe must take responsibility for its future. Climate change is not waiting. Regardless of global policy choices, we must remain committed to a responsible green transition, emission reductions and investments in a sustainable future, but with one rational approach, not to the detriment of European competitiveness. Global health security must also remain our priority. The pandemics have taught us that we need to be ready to invest in research, strengthen health systems and ensure international cooperation. Europe has shown that it can be at the forefront of global crises and we must continue on this path. The world is changing, but it's up to us to keep our course. Our strength lies in the unity and consistency of our values.

12

Feb

2025

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Commission Work Programme 2025 (debate)

Dear Chair, Commissioner, colleagues, the European Commission Work Programme 2025 comes at an important moment for the future of the European Union. From economic recovery, the digital transition to the erosion of the global order, we are facing a number of challenges. The program is ambitious, but also realistic. We need a strong industrial policy that will ensure the competitiveness of the European economy, reduce dependence on third countries and foster innovation. Affordable housing is essential for social cohesion and the demographic revitalisation of Europe and we expect from the European Commission the announced plan for affordable housing as soon as possible because without investing in the quality of life of our citizens there is no competitive Europe. Also, investing in sustainable transport is key to our competitiveness. We need strong cross-border rail connectivity and an ambitious high-speed train network, making Europe more economically efficient and connected. The new Multiannual Financial Framework needs to simplify access to European funds, but not at the expense of cohesion policy objectives, which must remain strong and focus on the well-being of European citizens. Through cohesion policy, we must ensure that Europeans have the right to stay in their regions, the right to housing, the right to education and all the infrastructure needed to enable the economy, and in particular small and medium-sized enterprises, to develop and offer quality jobs. The future of Europe depends on the decisive but wise moves we take today.

11

Feb

2025

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Boosting vocational education and training in times of labour market transitions (debate)

Dear Chair, Commissioner, we are undergoing rapid industrial and social change, we are facing a serious shortage of skilled workers, the digital and green transitions are changing the nature of jobs, and it is vocational education and training that must be our key. Today, around 50 per cent of secondary school pupils in the European Union complete vocational education programmes, but despite this, more than 75 per cent of European companies report difficulties in finding workers with the right skills. This is why we need to ensure that vocational education is flexible, innovative and in line with labour market needs. Member States must implement an ambitious reform of vocational education to increase the number of skilled workers and enable lifelong learning. Only in this way will we ensure that European workers remain competitive and our economy strong and resilient.

28

Nov

2024

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Strengthening children’s rights in the EU - 35th anniversary of the adoption of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (debate)

Today we mark the 35th anniversary of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, a historic document that has recognised children as holders of their own rights. As Members of the European Parliament, we are proud of achievements such as the European Strategy for Children’s Rights and the European Child Guarantee, which tackle child poverty. In particular, I must emphasise the revision of legislation aimed at combating child sexual abuse, both online and offline. In conclusion, we need to make efforts to put the voice of children at the centre of all policies that concern them. Children are not only the future, they are the present and their rights are not a matter of choice, but an obligation. May this anniversary be a reminder of our responsibility, not only to celebrate what we have achieved, but to work boldly and decisively together on what lies ahead. All of us in this room.

26

Nov

2024

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Outcome of COP 29 and challenges for international climate policy (debate)