State of the Union speech
What to expect?
The State of the Union (SOTEU) address is an annual speech by the President of the European Commission to the European Parliament, setting the priorities for the Union for the year ahead. It is a key moment in EU's democracy - an opportunity to
outline the EU's priorities
announce new initiatives.
The address is followed by a debate with Members of the European Parliament, reinforcing accountability.
In this year's address, President Ursula von der Leyen will share her vision and major initiatives for the year ahead, building on the EU's achievements so far.
On 16 September 2026 a livestream of the State of the Union speech will be available on this page.
This must be Europe's independence moment. I believe this is our Union's mission. Ultimately, it is about having the freedom and the power to determine our own destiny. And we know we can do it. Because together we have shown what is possible when we have the same ambition, unity and urgency.
What is the State of the Union and why it matters?
SOTEU is about making sure that Europe is meeting the expectations of Europeans.
