Exhibition
The plenary session functions thanks to the work of Parliament’s services, which provide essential linguistic, technical and logistical support.
Members have the right to speak in any of the 24 official EU languages. Their speeches are interpreted simultaneously by interpreters into the other official languages.
The preparation of session documents starts with the tabling of texts and amendments (managed by the tabling desk), and the documents are then translated and printed in all 24 official EU languages.
The Ushers
The ushers are instantly recognisable by their ceremonial dress. Initially, ushers were delegated to Parliament by Member States, but since 1979 the European Parliament has employed its own ushers.
The Protocol Service
The Protocol Service provides assistance on matters of protocol for Heads of State and other distinguished visitors who come to Parliament. Here, former President David Sassoli and Sakharov Prize laureate Lorent Saleh (centre) are accompanied by the Protocol Service on their way to the inauguration of Parliament’s ‘Sakharov Walk of Freedom’.