The State of the Union address is the European Commission President’s annual speech to the European Parliament. It reviews the past year, sets out the EU’s priorities for the year ahead and presents new initiatives. The speech is followed by a debate with Members of the European Parliament.

In this year’s address, President Ursula von der Leyen will present her vision and key initiatives for the coming year, building on the EU’s achievements.

What is the State of the Union?

The State of the Union, or SOTEU, sets out the direction for the European Union and the European Commission’s priorities for the year ahead. Watch this short video explainer to find out more about SOTEU and how priorities announced in the speech can translate into action:

SOTEU 2026: A Sneak Peek at the EU’s Priorities?

State of the Union Speech

• 16 Sep 2026, 09:00 - 11:50 (CEST)
• European Parliament in Strasbourg and web streamed

A livestream will be available on the day on his page: State of the Union 2026