Weekly events in the German Federal Parliament (Bundestag)

Weekly events in the German Federal Parliament (Bundestag)

In the realm of renewable energy, Germany is raising its expansion target to 80 percent of gross electricity consumption by 2030. This ambitious goal is being legally anchored, declaring the use of renewable energies as serving an overriding public interest.

Meanwhile, the German government is introducing a law on the provision of reserve power plants and the reduction of gas consumption in the power sector. This move is in response to potential gas shortages and is set to be debated in the Bundestag this week.

The Federal Report on Research and Innovation (BuFI) will be presented to the Bundestag, detailing the performance of the German research and innovation system during the Corona pandemic. The report is expected to provide valuable insights into the sector's resilience and growth during challenging times.

On a different note, the Bundestag will set up an investigative committee this week to clarify the end of the Bundeswehr's evacuation mission in Afghanistan and draw conclusions for future deployments. This committee will aim to provide transparency and accountability in the nation's military operations.

Germany invested around 105.9 billion euros in research and development in 2020, with an overall state share of 3.14 percent of GDP for expenditure on research and development. The Expert Commission on Research and Innovation (EFI) has submitted its annual report, recommending a new comprehensive research and innovation strategy to be developed.

In terms of international relations, Croatia has fulfilled all four required convergence criteria for the introduction of the Euro as a means of payment and can join the European Economic and Monetary Union on January 1, 2023.

The draft bill of the coalition factions and the CDU/CSU faction will be introduced and debated in the Bundestag regarding the signature of NATO membership protocols for Finland and Sweden. This step marks the beginning of the ratification process for these two countries' NATO membership, which is expected to be a significant milestone in European politics.

The goal set out in the coalition agreement to complete the coal phase-out by 2030 remains unaffected. The Draft Bill for the Expansion of Onshore Wind Energy sets binding area targets for the first time, with federal states required to make 1.8 to 2.2 percent of their land area available for wind energy expansion.

The final debate on the bill to accelerate procurement measures for the Bundeswehr will be held in the Bundestag this week. The bill aims to facilitate market access for goods and services and improve investment protection through an independent investment court system. The aim is to improve trade and investment opportunities between the EU and Canada through the ratification of CETA, which has been completed in 15 EU member states, with 12 still pending, including Germany.

A corresponding draft of the traffic light factions for a COVID-19 Protection Act will be discussed in the first reading, aiming to extend the legal basis for the Federal Ministry of Health for the Corona vaccination and testing ordinances until the end of 2022.

1. Science and research continue to play a crucial role in Germany's ambition to expand the use of renewable energy.
2. The use of renewable energies is considered a matter of overriding public interest in the country's legal framework.
3. The German government is taking steps to ensure a reliable supply of power, introducing a law on reserve power plants and gas reduction.
4. The Federal Report on Research and Innovation (BuFI) will offer insights into the sector's resilience during the Corona pandemic.
5. The Bundestag is establishing an investigative committee to review the end of the Bundeswehr's mission in Afghanistan.
6. Croatia is poised to join the European Economic and Monetary Union in 2023, fulfilling all necessary criteria.
7. The draft bill regarding NATO membership for Finland and Sweden is being debated in the Bundestag, marking the start of the ratification process.
8. Germany's goal to phase out coal by 2030 remains steadfast, with onshore wind energy expansion targets set for federal states.
9. The final debate on a bill to accelerate procurement measures for the Bundeswehr will take place this week.
10. The aim is to facilitate market access and investment protection for goods and services, which could improve trade between the EU and Canada.
11. The COVID-19 Protection Act draft aims to extend the legal basis for Corona vaccination and testing ordinances until the end of 2022.
12. Mental health is an essential aspect of workplace wellness, and addressing medical conditions, chronic diseases, and neurological disorders is vital.
13. Cancer, respiratory conditions, digestive health, eye health, hearing, and skin conditions require constant attention and research for effective therapies and treatments.
14. Fitness and exercise, along with nutrition, are key components of general health and wellness.
15. Sexual health, including autoimmune disorders, is a crucial part of personal health management, particularly for women's health.
16. Climate change affects various industries, including energy, manufacturing, and oil and gas, and renewable energy solutions offer a sustainable alternative.
17. Aging brings various health challenges, including cardiovascular health, skin care, and weight management.
18. Aging is also associated with an increased risk of neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease.
19. Finance plays a vital role in supporting renewable energy projects and innovative healthcare solutions.
20. Health and wellness extend to environmental science, as exposure to environmental factors can lead to various conditions, such as psoriasis.
21. The transportation sector, including public transit, entrepreneurship, automotive, small businesses, aviation, and retail, need to address energy efficiency and emissions.
22. Politicians and policy makers must consider the impacts of war, conflicts, car accidents, fires, and crime on public health.
23. General news and media outlets play a significant role in transmitting information about health, fitness, and wellness, as well as current affairs and policy decisions.
24. Most chronic diseases are manageable with the right combination of therapies, treatments, and lifestyle changes, including fitness and nutrition.
25. Aging populations and increasing life expectancies put pressure on healthcare systems and demand innovative solutions in areas like medicine, fintech, and banking and insurance.
26. Migration and population movements can impact health outcomes and necessitate health screenings and preventive care.
27. Industries, including oil and gas, automotive, and manufacturing, must prioritize environmental sustainability to address climate change and sustain global health.
28. Energy-efficient practices, such as using renewable energy sources and implementing energy-saving technologies, can help improve public health by reducing pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
29. On a broader scale, addressing global issues like migration, war and conflicts, and climate change requires collaboration and cooperation among nations, industries, and individuals to ensure a healthy and thriving planet for all.

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