Aura Salla: A year as an MEP – Steadfast work for us Europeans
A year of work in the European Parliament is now behind me. I am in my dream job, and I want to thank you for your trust. Over the past year, I have focused on issues that matter to us: the economy, security, technology, and energy.
My work in the ITRE Committee has focused on technology, industry, and energy policy. This year has also brought various responsibilities for me. As a rapporteur, I contributed to the EU budget in the Internal Market and Consumer Protection Committee. I emphasized functional internal markets, enabling fair competition, simplifying the current budget, and ensuring transparency in the use of budget funds for citizens.
In December, during the commissioner hearings, I participated in five hearings. Together with the EPP Group, we prepared questions for the commissioner candidates. I highlighted the need to open capital markets and simplify banking regulations. Ursula von der Leyen’s second Commission received a mandate from Parliament and began its work. It aims, among other things, to simplify legislation. In Parliament, we are also currently working on these topics.
In the Budget Committee, I am currently the rapporteur for the InvestEU loan program. The report was the first in the simplification package to receive Parliament’s approval and a trilogue mandate. Trilogue negotiations with the Commission and the Council will start in the autumn. I will represent Parliament in these negotiations.
In my committee and plenary speeches, I have raised issues such as digital sovereignty, border security, and affordable energy. Important topics for Finland include border security, promoting competitiveness, functional internal markets, and supporting industry in the clean transition.
In written questions to the Commission, I have asked, for example, about market access for biotechnology companies. There is still much to improve in this area to streamline regulations and ensure faster approvals and access to the market.
Alongside plenary weeks and committee work, I meet as many stakeholders as possible, from companies to NGOs. This gives me important insight into how, for example, reporting obligations challenge small and medium-sized enterprises in practice. I also enjoy participating in panels and speaking events. One memorable panel was at Slush, where I emphasized that Europe needs to create one easy access point for growth companies across the EU. I plan to organize a related event in Parliament in early 2026, bringing together MEPs across parties and company representatives. The aim is to advance the regulatory framework, the so-called 28th Regime, including a pan-European company ID.
People often ask me how I balance family life with work. It requires careful planning. Moving to Brussels will make daily life easier. Instead of weekly flights, I can walk to work and spend more time with my children after the workday. I will visit Finland regularly. I want to maintain close dialogue with you all. This newsletter, the Good Morning Brussels podcast, my social media channels, and my website are all ways to stay in touch. You can always contact me or my team.
Wishing you a wonderful August,
Aura
Member of the European Parliament, National Coalition Party, EPP
