This review highlights the main meetings and events in the EU institutions on a weekly basis, and alerts readers to articles of interest on EU developments. It provides a European perspective on political and policy developments within the European Union. To view EU Reviews published before July 2026, click here.  

Compiled by Aoibhín Dolan

19 - 25 October 2026

Activities in European Institutions

European Commission

EU Sets Out a New Strategy for The Arctic

On Tuesday, 20 October 2026, the European Commission and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy presented a new Strategy for the Arctic. The new Strategy builds on the issues identified by the EU's 2021 Arctic policy and responds to the major geopolitical, security and environmental changes that have taken place since then. The Strategy has four priorities: strengthening security and resilience, responding to climate change in the Arctic, prosperity, and opportunities for people and communities in the Arctic.

Oil Coordination Group Discusses EU Fuel Market Developments

On Wednesday, 21 October 2026, experts from the European Commission, Member States, the International Energy Agency (IEA), and the Energy Community met in the Oil Coordination Group to take stock of the recent developments in fuels markets in view of the continued global geopolitical uncertainty. Following the conclusions of the European Council meeting of 15-16 October 2026, the Commission updated the Group on the launch of the High-Level Dialogue with the European refining sector. The strategic dialogue is set to take place the following week and will be chaired by Dan Jørgensen, Commissioner for Energy and Housing, and Andrius Kubilius, Commissioner for Defence and Space.

European Parliament

Boosting High-Speed Rail to Enhance EU Cohesion and Competitiveness

On Tuesday, 20 October 2026, the Parliament endorsed its recommendations for accelerating the development of the EU’s high-speed rail connectivity and improving territorial cohesion in response to the Commission’s action plan adopted in November 2025. Adopted with 558 votes in favour, 23 against and 73 abstentions, the report calls for a genuine European high-speed rail network that is “interoperable, innovative, accessible and intermodal, delivering genuine value for citizens and public investment alike”, according to the Parliament. Rapporteur Vicent Marzà Ibáñez (Greens/EFA, ES) said: “This is a key element in reducing our dependence on fossil fuels, creating decent jobs, and significantly increasing our strategic autonomy”.

MEPs October European Council Summit Results and the 2028-2034 MFF

On Wednesday, 21 October 2026, plenary assessed the October EU summit results, focusing on a strong EU long-term budget and competitiveness in a debate with European Council President Costa and European Commission President von der Leyen. MEPs warned that “in Europe, more cannot be done with less money”. They highlighted various areas they believe should be prioritised in the 2028-2034 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF). This included fighting the cost-of-living crisis, continued support for Ukraine, migration, and competitiveness. 

Council of the EU

Informal Meeting of Trade Ministers (FAC Trade)

The informal meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) for ministers responsible for trade was hosted in Dublin by Ireland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Helen McEntee TD, on 22-23 October 2026. The agenda focused on current EU Free Trade Agreement negotiations, as well as the EU’s trade relations with major partners. There was a focus on opening new markets to support EU market diversification, economic resilience and European competitiveness, and to strengthen the multilateral, rules-based trading system. More information can be found in the event press release.

Investing in Skills for SME Competitiveness: An EU-Ireland Dialogue for the 2026 Presidency

On Thursday, 22 October 2026, the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) hosted the conference Investing in Skills for SME Competitiveness: An EU-Ireland Dialogue for the 2026 Presidency highlighted the need to advance policies that support skills development and cut unnecessary complexity for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). Michael McGrath, European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection, highlighted the growing importance of digital skills, data, automation and artificial intelligence, warning that businesses lacking the skills to adopt new technologies risk falling behind more productive and innovative competitors. The event formed part of the European Skills & VET Week.

Other News

Global Bioeconomy Summit 2026

The Global Bioeconomy Summit 2026 took place in Dublin, Ireland, on 20-21 October 2026. The Summit was organised by the International Advisory Council on Global Bioeconomy (IACGB) in collaboration with the Government of Ireland. The Summit convened leaders from policy, science, industry, and civil society to explore how the bioeconomy can be scaled as a force for change. In addition, the Summit focused on how bio-based solutions address pressing global crises, ranging from food and energy security to health, biodiversity loss, and climate resilience, while ensuring that their deployment is inclusive, equitable, and socially accepted.

Articles/Speeches of Interest

• A town called Schengen: After decades of seamless travel, European border checks are back (The Irish Times)
• EU planned to scrap clock changes. Why are they still happening? (Euronews)
• EU eyes Rome for 2027 summit ahead of Italian election (POLITICO EU)
• Why foreign governments are paying lobbyists to make their case in Brussels (The Irish Times)
• EU and China weigh next sectors for trade curbs (POLITICO EU)

12 – 18 October 2026

Compiled by Aoibhín Dolan 

Activities in European Institutions

European Commission

Strengthening Global Disaster Risk Management Through Space Technologies 

The Commission convened what it said was its very first cross-regional dialogue on using space technologies to assist countries in anticipating, preparing for, and responding to natural disasters on International Day for Disaster Risk Management, which fell on Tuesday, 13 October 2026. The dialogue identified opportunities for closer cooperation with partners worldwide, from improving early warning systems and sharing satellite data and expertise to strengthening national and local response capacities. Kamal Kishore, UN Special Representative for Disaster Risk Reduction, and Thomas Byrne, the Irish Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, also participated in this event, alongside representatives of disaster risk management organisations from Latin America and the Caribbean, Asia, and Africa. The EU is further reinforcing its space services with Galileo, GOVSATCOM, and IRIS².

The outcome of the discussions of Hadja Lahbib, Commissioner for Preparedness and Crisis Management, and Andrius Kubilius, Commissioner for Defence and Space, resulted in the Compass on Space and Disaster Risk Management. This document emphasises the need to translate data into actionable information. The Commission argued that “as disasters expand, so should our capacity to anticipate and mitigate their impact, beyond borders and in partnership with local, national and international bodies”. 

New Strategy on Combating Trafficking in Human Beings

On Friday, 16 October 2026, the European Commission set out a new strategy to combat trafficking in human beings, focusing on six priorities: better use of technology to prevent and detect trafficking, working more closely with businesses and labour inspectors, stepping up action against organised crime, addressing risks linked to migration, improving preparedness in times of crisis, and strengthening support and protection for people at risk and victims. Trafficking takes many forms, including sexual exploitation, labour exploitation, forced criminality, begging and forced marriage. The EU Anti-Trafficking Coordinator, Diane Schmitt, delivered a keynote address at the IIEA in September 2026, which is available here. 

European Parliament

Parliament Hosts Conference with Speakers from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)

On Friday, 16 October 2026, President Roberta Metsola chaired a conference bringing together Speakers of the Shura, Councils, Councils of Representatives, National Councils, and National Assemblies of the Member States of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Discussions focused on freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea, energy security, the broader implications of Russia’s aggression, people to people contacts, and shared priorities such as open trade, and connectivity. The meeting concluded with the adoption of a joint press statement reaffirming both sides’ commitment to strengthening strategic ties and deepening parliamentary cooperation. 

Second Review of the One Europe, One Market Roadmap 

In their second review of the One Europe, One Market Roadmap, designed to boost economic growth and a key aspect of Ireland’s presidency policy programme, the EU institutions reaffirmed their commitment to timely delivery. According to a press release from Thursday, 15 October 2026, the consensus is that urgent action is needed to enhance Europe’s competitiveness and that with this roadmap, the Union is making good progress. Statements on the review from the Parliament President, Commission President, and Irish Taoiseach are available here. 

European Council 

European Council Summit 15-16 October 2026 

EU leaders met in Brussels for the European Council summit from 15-16 October 2026. They adopted conclusions oncompetitiveness, Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova, the next 2028-2034 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), the Middle East, European defence and security, migration, enlargement and reforms, as well as other items, which covered the Arctic region, Ceuta and Melilla, a safer digital sphere, the upcoming UN climate change conference (COP31), and international jurisdiction.

The summit was chaired by European Council President, António Costa. European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, delivered a statement at the joint press conference with President Costa following the European Council meeting. Moreover, European Parliament President, Roberta Metsola, delivered a speech warning warned that the Irish Presidency's revised proposal for the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) “risks undermining the balance achieved by Parliament between traditional policies and new priorities”. The remarks of the Irish Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, on the October European Council summit are available here. 

Council of the EU

International AI Summit in Dublin, Ireland

As part of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council, Ireland’s Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment organised the International AI Summit on Wednesday, 14 October 2026 at the RDS in Dublin. The summit official launched European AI Innovation Month, which concludes in Brussels on 17 November. Under the theme Harnessing AI to Revolutionise Europe's Competitiveness, the Summit will examine areas such as how Europe and Ireland are building the conditions for success across the AI ecosystem as well as fostering a trusted regulatory environment that promotes innovation while safeguarding citizens and values. A recording of the summit is available here. 

A Digital Europe: Labour Market and Diplomacy 

As a highlight of Apply AI Month, following the AI and Digital Summit, the third iteration of the EU Digital Talent Days, on 15-16 October 2026 in Dublin, focused on the labour market needs and how policy makers and employers can ensure that Europe has the pool of talent it needs in the future. Delivered under the DIGITAL Programme for Advanced Digital Skills, the event is organised by the LEADSx2030 and Connecting Women in Digital initiatives, in partnership with the European Commission’s DG CNECT, DFHERIS, DETE, and local partners including National Coalitions, agencies and more. 

Moreover, another digital event took place in Dublin on 15 October 2026. Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade organised a meeting of Digital Ambassadors from EU Member States, co-chaired by the European External Action Service (EEAS). The Digital Diplomacy Network (DDN) gathers to strengthen cooperation and jointly develop strategies in key areas. The agenda for the regular meeting of the DDN is determined by the EEAS. The aim of this meeting was to exchange information and positions, to discuss challenges, and to bring synergy to digital diplomacy activities between EU Member States and for the EU as a whole.

Other News

International Conference on the Protection of Humanitarian Aid Workers

The European Commission and the Irish Presidency of the Council hosted the first International Conference on the Protection of Humanitarian Aid Workers on 15-16 October 2026. The event brought together governments, frontline responders, humanitarian organisations, and survivors of attacks.  The conference was organised with the intention to boost the momentum of the Australian initiative and the Global Initiative on International Humanitarian Law (IHL), reaffirm the EU's commitment to humanitarian diplomacy, and address accountability for attacks against humanitarian personnel. This conference follows a record year of violence: in 2025, 1,187 aid workers were killed, injured, kidnapped or detained worldwide. The EU has mobilised €3.5 million in funding in 2026 for the safety of humanitarian workers through the Protect Aid Workers initiative. 

 

Articles/Speeches of Interest

·       Statement by Executive Vice-President Mînzatu ahead of the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty (European Commission)

·       Lithuania accuses Moscow of Starlink sabotage (Rapporteur)

·       Croatia pumps the brakes on Montenegro’s EU membership bid (POLITICO EU)

·       The new multiannual financial framework (MFF): A future vision for the EU (Euronews)

·       EU ‘strongly condemns’ settler attack against delegation in West Bank (Rapporteur)

5 – 11 October 2026

Compiled by Aoibhín Dolan

Activities in European Institutions

European Commission

Preparing for a wider Union

On Tuesday, 6 October 2026, the Commission adopted a package on pre-enlargement policy reviews, setting out the policy orientations and actions needed to prepare the Union for future enlargements. Moreover, the Communication on Preparing for a wider Union complemented the in-depth sectoral analysis of the impact of enlargement on the EU. European Commissioner for Enlargement, Marta Kos, highlighted five sets of steps in her remarks on the policy reviews. This included:

·       Practical solutions on governance, rule of law, and policies;

·       A more ambitious framework for gradual integration of candidate countries;

·       A new framework for accession safeguards, to prevent the need for a two-tier membership;

·       To analyse the adjustments needed due to accessions’ impact; and,

·       To utilise roadmaps for the four most advanced candidate countries (Montenegro, Albania, Moldova, and Ukraine).

 

Commission Registers European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) on Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Officially launched in April 2012, the European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) was introduced with the Lisbon Treaty as an agenda-setting tool for citizens. Since then, the Commission has registered 136 initiatives. This includes the ECI entitled Creation of a European Digital Space (.IA) for Sovereign AI Governance, which was registered by the Commission on Tuesday, 6 October 2026. Once formally registered, an ECI allows one million citizens from at least seven EU Member States to invite the European Commission to propose legal acts in areas where it has the power to act. For this AI initiative, the organisers invite the Commission “to propose a framework for high-trust digital spaces and to take the initiative at European level to negotiate with ISO and ICANN with a view to safeguarding the .IA domain”. The initiative organisers have six months to open the signature collection.

 

European Parliament

MEPs Adopt Their Priorities on the Anti-Corruption Strategy

According to a 2025 Special Eurobarometer survey, 69% of Europeans believe corruption is widespread in their country. In this context, during the Thursday, 8 October 2026, plenary session of the Parliament’s Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE), MEPs adopted their priorities for the Commission’s imminent anti-corruption strategy to strengthen prevention, enforcement, and integrity across the Union. In a resolution adopted by a show of hands, Parliament says the strategy must address evolving corruption risks linked to organised crime and new technologies, following the entry into force of the anti-corruption directive in May 2026. MEPs also call for stronger rule of law conditionality in the next EU long-term budget for 2028-2034 and, where relevant, anti-corruption targets in EU-funded programmes.

Portugal’s Prime Minister Participates in a This is Europe Debate

In a series of This is Europe debates, many EU Heads of State or Government have addressed the European Parliament, to present their vision for Europe and its future. Roberta Metsola launched the initiative soon after her election as President of the European Parliament in January 2022. On Tuesday, 6 October 2026, President Metsola welcomed Portugal’s Prime Minister, Luís Montenegro, noting that in 2026 the EU celebrates 40 years of Portugal’s EU membership. In his address, Prime Minister Montenegro highlighted that “there is no European competitiveness without cohesion, and no cohesion without competitiveness, in relation to the negotiations on the 2028-2034 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF). Moreover, the Prime Minister called for a coordinated European approach to speed up the energy transition to reduce the EU’s energy dependence; as well as collaboration on Europe’s housing crisis, which he said the crisis would benefit from a simplification of procedures, while simultaneously respecting national and local competencies.

European Council

The next meeting of the European Council will take place in Brussels from 15-16 October 2026. Items on the agenda for the two-day summit include the EU's long-term budget 2028-2034, continued support for Ukraine, hybrid attacks in Europe linked to Russia, migration, EU enlargement and reforms, and the situation in the Middle East.

Council of the EU

10th EU-Republic of Moldova Association Council

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, chaired the 10th EU-Republic of Moldova Association Council on Monday, 5 October 2026. The Prime Minister of the Republic of Moldova, Vasile Tofan, led the delegation of the Republic of Moldova, while Commissioner for Enlargement, Marta Kos, represented the European Commission. The meeting provided a platform to exchange views on the country’s progress towards EU membership, including political dialogue and reforms, especially in justice, freedom and security, alongside cooperation in foreign and security policy, energy, trade, and other sectors.

Economic and Financial Affairs Council (ECOFIN)

On Friday, 9 October 2026, the Economic and Financial Affairs Council (ECOFIN) was held in Luxembourg. The main results include an agreement of the key elements of the council configuration’s negotiating position on essential new measures to strengthen EU capital markets. New rules will constitute a major step forward in unlocking private savings for investment in innovative firms, with a view to financing growth and boosting the EU’s overall global competitiveness. Moreover, the Council approved conclusions on climate finance in view of the 2026 UN climate change conference (COP31) taking place in Antalya, Türkiye, on 9-20 November 2026. During the discussion, ministers agreed that improving banking competitiveness is a key priority for the EU, in support of the savings and investments union and the EU’s wider competitiveness agenda, as laid out in the ‘One Europe, One Market’ agenda.

Other News

European Union Statements on the International Criminal Court Following Announcement of United States Sanctions

The European Commission released a statement on the International Criminal Court (ICC) Following Announcement of US Sanctions stating that the EU has been a “constant supporter of the ICC and will work with the Court closely to ensure it continues to operate effectively, calling the US’ actions as “deeply regrettable”. The Commission noted that there is a six-month delay before these sanction measures are applicable and therefore there is room for dialogue. They noted that “the EU stands ready to take any necessary measures to enable the Court to carry out its work both in investigating and prosecuting war crimes and crimes against humanity, and to protect the interests of EU operators within the Single Market”.

Moreover, leading MEPs who are the Chairs of the Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET), the Committee on International Trade (INTA), the Committee on Legal Affairs (JURI), the Subcommittee on Human Rights (DROI), and the Delegation for relations with the US (D-US) released a joint statement said that “targeting the Court as an institution crosses a fundamental red line, one that threatens the independence and integrity of a tribunal established to uphold accountability for the gravest crimes of concern to the international community”. The MEPs added that “the European Commission must immediately trigger the EU Blocking Statute, shielding the Court and European actors from the extraterritorial reach of these sanctions. Europe must stand firm in defence of international law and the rule of law”.

Articles/Speeches of Interest

·       Diagnostic Challenges for ECB Monetary Policy (European Central Bank)

·       EU monitors 'very closely' suspected outbreak of pneumonic plague in Russia (Euronews)

·       EU countries brace for €100B-€200B smaller budget (POLITICO EU)

·       European and World Day against the Death Penalty, 10 October 2026: Joint statement by the High Representative of the European Union and the Secretary General of the Council of Europe (European Union External Action Service)

·       UK and EU reach Brexit agreement to link carbon emissions trading systems (POLITICO EU)

28 September – 4 October 2026

Compiled by Aoibhín Dolan

Activities in European Institutions

European Commission

Commission Publishes 2026 Science, Research and Innovation of the EU Report

The Commission published the 2026 edition of the Science, Research and Innovation Performance of the EU report on Thursday, 1 October 2026. This report examines the key determinants of the EU’s performance in these areas, including international comparisons with major economies, and puts forward policy recommendations. It is designed to inform policymakers, stakeholders, and the wider public about the EU's strengths, challenges, and strategic priorities at a time of growing global competition and rapid technological change.

The report shows that Europe remains a global scientific leader. However, Europe is less successful in turning that scientific strength into strategic technologies, market leadership and productivity growth. The report highlights four main challenges: Investment; Fragmentation; Scaling up invocation; and Global competition.

Support for Ukraine’s Budgetary and Defence Needs

On Thursday, 1 October 2026, the European Commission and Ukraine released a joint statement regarding Ukraine’s budgetary and defence needs. For 2027, they have agreed to move forward swiftly with the allocation of €45 billion under the Ukraine Support Loan, subject to the established conditions, as well as working on the identification of additionally budgetary and defence needs. The Commission and Ukraine also agreed to meet monthly to better coordinate their joint efforts.

European Parliament

MEPs Set Out Priorities for this year’s UN Climate Change Conference (COP31)

On Thursday, 1 October 2026, the Committee on the Environment, Climate, and Food Safety (ENVI) adopted the draft resolution on the Parliament’s priorities for the 9-20 November UN Climate Change Conference (COP31), to be held in Antalya, Türkiye. MEPs underlined the need for the EU to keep driving ambitious climate action. They stressed that 2025 was one of the hottest years on record and that Europe remains the fastest-warming continent. COP31 is set to focus on advancing the transition away from fossil fuels, launching the process for the next global stocktake, and scaling up climate finance, including through the operationalisation of the New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance (NCQG) agreed at COP29.

Parliament Resolution Adopted on EU Cancer Action

On Monday, 28 September 2026, MEPs on the Committee on Public Health (SANT) adopted a resolution assessing the EU action plan on beating cancer. They want the next seven-year long-term EU budget (2028-2034) to earmark at least €10.05bn for health, with €2.5bn dedicated to cancer-related action. The committee argued that prevention is the most cost-efficient long-term cancer control strategy and want EU tobacco legislation urgently updated to cover products such as electronic cigarettes, heated tobacco products, and nicotine pouches. Moreover, SANT MEPs call for equal access to cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment across the Union. Additionally, the resolution noted that EU cancer action should also boost the quality of life of cancer survivors and patients. This includes measures for boosting labour market integration, rehabilitation and psychosocial support, and a full implementation of Right to Be Forgotten rules. 

Council of the EU

A Focus on EU Youth

As part of Ireland’s presidency of the Council, the country hosted the EU Youth Conference, a large-scale youth participation event and a key feature of the EU youth dialogue (EUYD), in Dublin from 27-30 September 2026. The conference focused on EU Youth Goal 4, Information and Constructive Dialogue and will help to shape the revised youth goals for the new EU Youth Strategy due in 2027.

DGs of Youth were invited to attend the final morning of the Youth Conference to ensure young people and policy makers engage in the spirit of youth dialogue. The meeting of the Directors General (DG) of Youth took place directly after the conference, from 30 September – 1 October 2026 where DGs discussed ongoing youth policy and the recommendations emerging from the conference. Moreover, from 28 September – 1 October, Léargas, in collaboration with Ireland’s Higher Education Authority, hosted the Informal National Agencies of Erasmus+ Directors’ Meeting and the Business Meeting of National Agencies for Youth.

Meeting of the Agriculture and Fisheries Council (AGRIFISH)

The Agriculture and Fisheries Council (AGRIFISH) met in Brussels from 28-29 of September 2026. On Tuesday, 29 September, the Council today reached a partial negotiating position on a regulation setting out the conditions for the EU’s support for the common fisheries policy (CFP), the EU's maritime and aquaculture policies, and the European Ocean Pact for the next EU long-term budget for the 2028-2034 period. In addition to this, the AGRIFISH council configuration discussed the European Maritime, Fisheries, and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF); management of shared fish stocks with the UK, Norway, and coastal states; the European Commission's Fertiliser Action Plan, the current market situation in light of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and severe drought condition during the summer in several Member States; and the post-2027 Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).

Other News

Parliament Position on the Next Iteration of the Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM)

On Thursday, 1 October 2026, the parliament committees on the Environment, Climate and Food Safety (ENVI) and Public Health (SANT) adopted their position on the next iteration (2028-2034) of the EU’s civil protection mechanism (UCPM). This is the EU’s main tool for helping countries hit by crisis; from natural disasters to health emergencies. MEPs suggest increasing UCPM funding to €12.42 billion in current prices (€11 billion in 2025 constant prices) – up from €10 billion in the Commission proposal. MEPs part of the ENVI and SANT committees want to strengthen monitoring and anticipation, so that EU institutions and local actors can prepare for crises rather than simply react to them. Moreover, they would like to highlight the importance of volunteers as a first line of response, by ensuring that volunteers have a dedicated legal status.

Articles/Speeches of Interest

·       17 countries join forces to oppose EU budget cuts (POLITICO EU)

·       Greece urges EU to loosen fiscal rules as energy crisis deepens (Euronews)

·       Latvian PM on track to lead pro-Ukraine coalition after election win (The Irish Times)

·       ‘Maxi merde’: French presidential campaign rattled by a week of chaos (POLITICO EU)

·       EU pushes China to accept import quotas in bid to rebalance trade (Euronews)

21 – 27 September 2026 

Activities in European Institutions

European Commission

Three New Global Gateway Investments Linked to Global Health Resilience  

The European Commission announced three new Global Gateway investments. They are all connected to the Global Health Resilience Initiative, which is the renewed EU approach, adopted in May 2026, to better prevent, prepare for, and respond to global health threats. The package includes an EU guarantee of €63.5 million designed to mobilise private investment in health and nutrition businesses in Sub-Saharan Africa; an EU-backed European Investment Bank (EIB) loan of €15 million to expand vaccine and biological medicines production in Colombia; and €60 million in EU funding to strengthen primary health care in Ethiopia. 

Second Half of €1 Billion Financial Support Package for Lebanon Announced  

The European Commission announced €505 million in financial support for Lebanon for 2026 and 2027, the second half of the €1 billion support package announced by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during her visit to Beirut in May 2024. The new funding will support Lebanon in addressing the consequences of instability, conflict and displacement in the region as well as covering three main areas to support the country in advancing reforms. This includes economic recovery, enhancing security and border management; and maintaining essential services for the most vulnerable.  

European Parliament

33rd EU-Mexico Joint Parliamentary Committee Meeting in Mexico City 
Building in the recent signature of the EU-MX modernised agreement and a successful Eurolat session in Mexico City, the European Parliament and Mexico met from 22 to 24 September 2026 in the context of the 33rd EU-Mexico Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) meeting. Moreover, the programme included a series of high-level meetings with the EU-diplomacy corps accredited in Mexico, the Mexican Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Minister of the Interior, the business community, and civil society. The key issues on the agenda were: Implementation of the modernised agreement; Relations with the United States and the geopolitical scenario; Security and fight against organised crime and drug smuggling; Defence and promotion of human rights and civil rights. 

Citizens’ Forum North Macedonia 
Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) travelled to Skopje, North Macedonia, on the occasion of the Citizens’ Forum North Macedonia, which took place from 25 to 27 September 2026. 50 citizens were selected to reflect the diversity of the country, and through informed discussions, expert sessions and facilitated deliberation, these participants developed recommendations for EU institutions and the national parliament. Speakers at the forum included Afrim Gashi, President of the Assembly of the Republic of North Macedonia; Michalis Rokas, Ambassador of the EU to North Macedonia; Thomas Waitz MEP; Lucas Mandel MEP; Constantinos Arvanitis MEP; Kristian Vigenin MEP; and Agim Selami, Executive Director of the ZIP Institute.   

Council of the EU 

EU-US Senior Officials Meeting on Justice and Home Affairs (JHA)  
Senior officials from the European Union and from the United States meet every six months to discuss key areas of cooperation on security and justice including cooperation in the fight against organised and serious crime, drug trafficking and terrorism. From 24 to 25 September 2026, these officials met in Dublin. On the US side, the meeting was attended by representatives from the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Justice, and the US State Department. From the EU side, attendees included representatives of the Irish Presidency, the European Commission, Europol and Eurojust, the General Secretariat of the Council, and the Office of the EU Counter-Terrorism Coordinator. The meeting will prepare for a later meeting at Ministerial Level between the EU and the US; where Jim O’Callaghan TD, the Irish Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, will represent the Council of the EU.  

Sports Policy: Meeting of Directors General for Sport  

Ireland’s Department of Culture, Communications and Sport organised a meeting in Dublin of senior officials from EU Member States with responsibility for sports policy. The meeting allowed attendees to engage in sports policy, including the promotion of traditional sports and games. Sports policy is also important to Ireland in a national capacity as the country published its first International Sports Diplomacy Strategy earlier in February 2026. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said that “through the unifying power of sport, the strategy will serve to foster opportunities for international partnerships, cultural exchange and diaspora engagement”. 

European Council 

The 81st session of the UN General Assembly took place in New York from 21 to 25 September 2026. The President of the European Council, António Costa, addressed the General Assembly on behalf of the EU on Thursday, 24 September. President Costa reinforced the importance of multilateralism, while acknowledging that the UN can be made more effective; safeguarding international law; putting an end to Russia’s war against Ukraine; Supporting the two-state solution for Israel and Palestine; and building an economy for many. Moreover, President Costa advocated for advancing the right to development while speaking at the high-level meeting to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Declaration on the Right to Development and he urgently called on all UN member states to maintain their focus on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

Other news 

DG EMPL Launch European Job Days App 

The European Labour Authority, Directorate-General for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion (DG EMPL) announced the introduction of the European Job Days (EJD) app on Thursday, 24 September 2026. Designed to complement the existing platform which has been running for 15 years, the app allows for another avenue to use European Employment Services (EURES). Launched in 1994, EURES as an online job-matching service with over 3 million jobs and 5 thousand employers registered. According to DG EMPL, the new app should make it “easier to find and apply for certain vacancies, connect with employers and take part in online events, wherever you are”. 

Articles/Speeches of Interest 

• EU to keep opposing new Arctic oil drilling, despite pressure from Norway (Reuters) 
• The trials and tribulations of finalising an EU sanctions package (Euronews) 
• European ministers discuss stronger border controls and fast-track migrant returns (Associated Press) 
• What is in Brussels’ ‘Made in EU’ law and why is Britain worried? (Reuters) 
• Europe’s new German question (Euractiv/Rapporteur) 

7-13 September 2026

Compiled by Aoibhín Dolan

Activities in European Institutions

European Commission

India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Presented to the Council

The European Commission, on Friday, 11 September 2026, put forward its proposals to the Council seeking its authorisation to conclude the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the European Union and India. If authorised, this will be the largest trade agreement ever concluded by both the EU and India. The agreement includes objectives to improve market access, eliminate or reduce tariffs (on 96% of EU goods exported to India), tackle unnecessary barriers to trade, as well as provide predictable rules for trade and investment between the EU and India. Moreover, the FTA should make it easier for European companies to access the Indian market and compete on a more level playing field.

Commission Presents EU-Ecuador Sustainable Investment Facilitation Agreement (SIFA) to Council

The EU-Ecuador Sustainable Investment Facilitation Agreement (SIFA) is the first SIFA negotiated with a Latin American country and the Commission presented it to the Council on Friday, 11 September 2026 for authorisation. According to the Commission, this agreement aims to make it easier for EU companies to invest and expand their operations in Ecuador and is closely aligned with the EU's Global Gateway strategy in Ecuador, which supports investments and sustainable infrastructure in sectors such as energy, water sanitation, and waste management. The EU is a leading trade and investment partner for Ecuador, with the EU's FDI stock in the country reaching €9.1 billion in 2024. Moreover, pursuing SIFAs is among the objectives set out in the EU's Competitiveness Compass, which highlighted the need to seek new ways of deepening partnerships and creating benefits for EU businesses

European Parliament

MEPs Propose Rule Changes for Governing Trans-European Energy Infrastructure

On Thursday, 10 September 2026, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) from the Industry, Research and Energy Committee (ITRE) proposed changes to the rules governing Trans-European Networks for Energy (TEN-E). This infrastructure includes the network of pipelines, cables, and other facilities that carry energy across EU borders.The revised TEN-E Regulation (EU/2022/869) entered into force in June 2022. It enhances the EU’s energy infrastructure policy and aligns with the objectives of The European Green Deal, with the objective of enabling investments to work towards a climate-neutral energy mix by 2050.

Delegation to the Euro-Latin American Parliamentary Assembly (DLAT) Meeting in Brussels

On Monday, 7 September 2026, the European Parliament’s Delegation to the Euro-Latin American Parliamentary Assembly (DLAT) met in Brussels to discuss interparliamentary cooperation and economic relations. The meeting featured invited expert guests and focused on views on trade, investment, and business relations between both regions in light of existing and upcoming association agreements as well as an overview of bi-regional parliamentary diplomacy, highlighting strategic cooperation and the role of ParlAmericas.

According to DLAT, EuroLat is composed of 150 members in total. Half of its members are representatives from Latin American regional parliaments, including the Parlatino (Latin American Parliament), Parlandino (Andean Parliament), Parlacen (Central American Parliament), Parlasur (Mercosur Parliament), as well as the Congresses of Chile and Mexico. The other half come from the European Parliament (DLAT). This Partnership was established at the first summit between the EU, Latin America and the Caribbean, held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in June 1999.

Council of the EU

Informal Meeting of Agriculture Ministers in Dublin

Ireland’s Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon TD, chaired an informal meeting of EU ministers responsible for agriculture (AGRIFISH), as well as representatives from the European Commission and other senior officials, from 6-8 September in Dublin. The meeting had a particular focus on the role of Livestock in European Agriculture and provided an opportunity for an open discussion on how livestock farming and food production can remain sustainable, competitive and resilient, while supporting food security, generational renewal, and rural communities.

Ireland’s EU Presidency Conference on Online Safety for Children and Young People

The Irish Department of Culture, Communications and Sport organised a Youth Forum in the lead up to the Presidency to listen to the experiences of children and young people in the online environment and to seek their views on what online safety means to them. The outputs from this Youth Forum informed discussions at the Ireland’s EU Presidency Conference on Online Safety for Children and Young People which took place from 10-11 September 2026. More information is available here.

Other News

Informal Meeting of Directors General for Development

An informal meeting on 9-10 September brought together Directors General and their equivalents in Foreign and Development Co-operation Ministries from EU Member States, as well as senior officials from the European Commission and European External Action Service (EEAS), to discuss policy priorities and strategic direction for EU development co-operation and humanitarian assistance.

The meeting facilitated preparation ahead of the informal meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council (Development) which is scheduled to take place on 8-9 October 2026. That meeting will be hosted by Ireland’s Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Neale Richmond TD. The formal meeting of the FAC (Development) is scheduled to take place on 1 December, in Brussels. Minister of State Richmond spoke at the IIEA in June 2026, as part of the IIEA Irish Aid Development Matters series, on the topic of Development and the EU Presidency.

Articles/Speeches

• UK begins talks to rejoin EU security missions (BBC)
• Europe spends record €7.3bn on Russian Arctic gas in just eight months, surpassing 2025 total (Euronews)
• EU must take a firmer stance towards Morocco, says Ceuta mayor (Euractiv)
• ‘Disastrous’ summer showed EU must step up climate action, says Metsola (POLITICO EU)
• Irish civil servants criticised in private missive for delays in transposing EU rules (The Irish Times)

31 August – 6 September 2026

Activities in European Institutions

European Commission

NextGenerationEU Reaches Final Implementation Deadline

On Monday, 31 August 2026, Member States reached their final implementation deadline for reforms and investments set out in their national recovery and resilience plans as part of NextGenerationEU. The Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) is an important temporary instrument created to support Europe’s economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic and build a greener, more digital, and more resilient future. In this context, the Commission greenlighted Sweden's final payment request, who successfully completed 100% of its investments and reforms linked to its recovery and resilience plan, shortly after Denmark. Currently, €440 billion has been disbursed to Member States, with up to a further €133 billion to be paid by the end of 2026.

Commission President Visits Emergency Response Coordination Centre (ERCC)

President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, visited the Emergency Response Coordination Centre (ERCC) in Brussels on Monday, 31 September 2026. In a statement following her visit, she thanked the Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness, and Crisis Management, Hadja Lahbib, as well as the staff working for the ERCC and the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO). This visit follows various climate disasters in Member States over the hot summer months. President von der Leyen said:

Fires, earthquakes, floods, health emergencies, hybrid attacks, you name it. Each crisis is different and requires a specific response. But most important is that the principle is the same: when help is needed, you can count on Europe.

European Parliament

Parliament Committees Meet with Minister from Greenland

The Development (DEVE) and Foreign Affairs (AFET) committees hosted Greenland’s minister for foreign affairs, business and minerals, Múte Bourup Egede, on Wednesday, 2 September. Items on the agenda include updating the rules governing the EU’s relationship with Greenland and other overseas countries and territories (OCTs) as well as future financial support for Greenland under the EU’s Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028-34.

Committee on Employment and Social Affairs calls for New Law to Protect Workers’ Mental and Physical Health

On Wednesday, 2 September 2026, the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs (EMPL) have agreed on recommendations and for a new EU bill to ensure minimum requirements to prevent, eliminate, or reduce work-related psychosocial risks which could lead to work-related stress, burnout, and mental and physical disorders. The Committee have called on the Commission to draft a law to protect workers from work-related psychosocial risks and stress at work, with a request for a legislative initiative adopted by 41 votes in favour and 12 votes against, with 4 abstentions.

Council of the EU

The Biannual Gymnich Takes Place in Wicklow

Ireland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Helen McEntee TD, in cooperation with the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, hosted an informal   meeting of EU ministers responsible for foreign affairs (Gymnich), which took place on 1-2 September in Wicklow. As with the regular Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) meetings, the Gymnich is chaired by the High Representative/Vice President. The Gymnich takes place every six months and provides an opportunity for ministers to exchange open and strategic discussions on current geopolitical developments and the EU’s role on the international stage.

Informal Meeting of the General Affairs Council

The informal meeting of the EU General Affairs Council (GAC) was chaired by Ireland’s Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne TD, on 3-4 September 2026. The meeting provided an opportunity for EU Ministers and European Commissioners to exchange views on European priorities and strategic issues relevant to the General Affairs Council agenda, including the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028-34, EU enlargement, and bolstering the EU’s democratic resilience. Ministers from EU candidate countries and potential candidates joined the Member States for a working session on EU enlargement.

Other News

The EU and The Arctic

“Focus on the High North: upgrading the EU's Arctic policy and protecting the EU's interests in a rapidly evolving region", a study requested by the European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET), was presented at the committee meeting on Tuesday, 1 September 2026. The Parliament Think Tank stated that “the Arctic is undergoing its most profound transformation in recorded history, driven by rapid climate change and intensifying geopolitical competition”. This paper evaluates the EU's 2021 Arctic policy as well as examines how existing elements can be improved. Moreover, it argues that the 2026 update represents not just another opportunity to add a further layer, but a critical moment to define the EU’s priorities in the Arctic and act upon them.

Relatedly, from 1-3 September in Brussels, Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, Costas Kadis, and Commissioner for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture and Sport, Glenn Micallef, jointly hosted the “Youth Policy Dialogue: How to make Arctic youth participation more inclusive”. The ten young participants were selected via the EU-funded project Youth Together for Arctic Futures, a workstream under the EU Arctic Youth Dialogue initiative. The Dialogue took place in the framework of the EU Arctic Forum and the Arctic Youth and Indigenous Peoples’ Dialogues, which took place on 1-2 September and was opened by Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jozef Síkela, and Commissioner Kadis.

Articles/Speeches of Interest

• Euro zone inflation jumps to 3.3%, paving way for ECB rate hike (The Irish Times)
• EU defends Brazil meat ban amid threat of retaliation (Euractiv)
• Poland’s anti-Ukrainian turn spills into violence (POLITICO EU)
• Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz under pressure after far-right election triumph (Euronews)
• Kallas scraps new high-level European defense group in fresh blow to her leadership (POLITICO EU)

27 July – 2 August 2026

Activities in European Institutions

European Commission

Japan Officially Joins the EU’s Flagship Research and Innovation Programme

Japan is officially associated to Horizon Europe as of Thursday, 30 July 2026. Horizon Europe is the EU's flagship research and innovation programme. Japan's association covers Horizon Europe Pillar II, which has a budget of €52.4 billion. This pillar funds multinational research and innovation projects addressing major societal challenges related to climate, energy, health, and the digital economy. Moreover, Japan will contribute financially to the programme's budget covering for the participation of Japanese entities. According to the Commission, Japan's association marks an important step in the EU–Japan Strategic Partnership and underlines a shared commitment to scientific excellence, innovation, open and rules-based international research cooperation.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle… and the Right to Repair: New Consumer Rights for Repairs

According to the Commission, many consumers are more likely to dispose of a broken or defective product and replace it with a new one and this practice generates a substantial amount of waste and unnecessary resource consumption. However, new rules, starting on Friday, 31 July 2026, are planned to result in savings for consumers, boost the circular economy, and support the objectives of sustainable consumption in the EU. These rights include an extension of 12 months to the legal guarantee when the consumer chooses to repair a product rather than replace, as well as requiring manufacturers to provide easily accessible information about repair services, and access to spare parts at a reasonable price. Additionally, a new online European repair platform, planned to be operational in 2027, will allow consumers to more easily find suitable repairers.

European Parliament

The European Parliament have taken summer recess from 25 July until 21 August 2026.

Council of the EU

Informal Meeting of Fisheries Ministers in Cork

Ireland’s Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon, TD, hosted a meeting of the Agriculture and Fisheries Council (AGRIFISH) on 28-29 July 2026 in Cork, Ireland. The first day, Tuesday, 28 July, included a cultural activity which aimed to showcase Ireland’s agri-food sector with a focus on seafood and on Wednesday, 29 July, Member State Ministers gathered in Cork City Hall for the informal plenary session. Discussions focused on the EU’s Common Fisheries Policy, including consideration of how the Union can sustainably develop its fisheries and aquaculture sectors and ensure that the important role of these sectors is appropriately reflected in the regulatory framework. Moreover, in the second optional element of the Informal Meeting of Fisheries Ministers, the Irish Presidency welcomed them aboard the RV Tom Crean, Ireland’s state-of-the-art research vessel named after the Irish seaman and Antarctic explorer.

High-Level Conference: Listening to Children and Young People in Decision-Making

The Irish Department of Children, Disability and Equality organised a High-Level Conference in Dublin, on 30-31 July 2026, focused on the participation of children in decision-making in challenging settings. Delegates included children and young people, government representatives, EU Member States, policymakers, and practitioners. The conference sessions explored how children and young people are currently being included in policies, services, and practices across Europe. Moreover, delegates highlighted the challenges that must be addressed in order to make youth participation in decision-making easier and more impactful. This includes when a service or policy is implemented in a challenging or sensitive context.

Other News

Chancellor of Germany Meets with Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin in Dublin

Taoiseach Micheál Martin met with the Chancellor of Germany, Friedrich Merz, in Dublin on Tuesday, 28 July 2026. The Chancellor visited Phoenix Park, including the courtyard of Farmleigh House, the former Guinness family home, after he was greeted by the Taoiseach in the morning. They discussed issues on the EU’s agenda during Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the EU, including the EU’s next long-term budget 2028-2034, competitiveness, and enlargement. In Taoiseach Martin’s speech, he offered his “deepest condolences on those killed and injured in the horrific attack on Berlin pride at the weekend”.

Articles/Speeches of Interest

• One year on, is the Turnberry deal already at risk? (Euronews)
• Meet the EU team leading the world’s first bona fide regulation of AI (POLITICO EU)
• Eurozone defies Iran war shock to grow by 0.4% (Euractiv)
• Beethoven or birds? ECB unveils new banknote designs (RTÉ)
• Colombia’s president-elect to close embassies in three European countries in diplomatic overhaul (Euronews)

20 – 26 July 2026

Activities in European Institutions

European Commission

EU Adopts 21^st Package of Sanctions Against Russia

The Commission welcomed the adoption of the 21^st package of sanctions against Russia on Thursday, 23 July 2026. Russia's budget is under growing pressure, with more than two-thirds of the liquid assets of its sovereign wealth fund depleted since the start of the war. These updated measures focus on the sectors with the greatest impact: energy; financial services, including crypto; trade; and the Russian military-industrial complex. In addition, Member States reached an agreement that paves the way for a ban on the entry of Russian combatants into the EU following the adoption of necessary implementing measures and a decision by the Council.

Breaches of the Digital Markets Act and the Digital Services Act

Firstly, on Thursday, 23 July 2026, the Commission took two decisions finding non-compliance by Google with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) for self-preferencing its own services on Google Search, and for putting in place restrictions on businesses to direct consumers to alternative purchase channels on Google Play (steering). In this regard, the Commission issued Google fines of €460 million and €430 million respectively. Google is required to comply with the Commission's decisions within 60 days, otherwise it risks periodic penalty payments of up to 5% of its total worldwide turnover.

Additionally, on Friday, 24 July 2026, the Commission sent TikTok preliminary findings indicating that TikTok accounts of minors do not meet the safety standards required under the Digital Services Act (DSA). TikTok now has the possibility to examine the documents in the Commission's investigation files and reply in writing to the Commission's preliminary findings. In parallel, the European Board for Digital Services will be consulted. If the Commission's views are ultimately confirmed, the Commission may issue a non-compliance decision for TikTok.

European Parliament

EU-China Relations: Foreign Affairs Committee Travel to Beijing and Shanghai

An eight-member delegation of the European Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee (AFET) travelled to Beijing and Shanghai, China, from 21-23 July 2026. Discussions focused on the EU-China relationship, with particular attention on the geopolitical implications of growing economic imbalances, Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, the human rights situation in China, and peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. Among others, the MEPs met with EU ambassadors in Beijing, the EU Chamber of Commerce, the International Department of the Communist Party of China, including Minister Liu Haixing, and with scholars at the Institute of European Studies of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS). In Shanghai, the committee held a series of meetings with representatives of the municipal authorities and local tech companies on tech sovereignty and competition, as well as the global governance of artificial intelligence. AEFT is set to adopt its recommendation on EU-China political relations in the autumn.

Committee on Constitutional Affairs Delegation Travel to the United States

A delegation of the Constitutional Affairs Committee (AFCO) travelled to the United States on 20-23 July 2026. Firstly, in Washington D.C., the MEPs analysed the recent US Supreme Court jurisprudence on the devolution of powers from the federal to the state level. The delegation’s aim was to offer comparative insights on questions of EU law supremacy and the transparency and integrity of EU institutions. Subsequently, at the UN’s headquarters in New York, they examined global developments in artificial intelligence governance and their implications for the EU's legal and constitutional framework.

Council of the EU

Informal Meeting of Competitiveness Ministers (Research and Innovation)

Ireland’s Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless, TD, chaired an informal meeting of EU ministers responsible for research and innovation, which took place on 20-21 July in Dublin. Minister Lawless said that the Letta and Draghi reports made a clear case for urgent action and that the informal meeting’s discussions focused on how to maximise the support for and contribution of research and innovation to improve Europe’s competitiveness, security, and prosperity. The informal nature of the meeting helped to support strategic dialogue and facilitate the sharing of perspectives in advance of the formal the Competitiveness Council (COMPET) meetings in September and December 2026.

Informal Meeting of Environment and Climate Ministers

Ireland’s Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment, Darragh O'Brien, TD, convened EU environment and climate ministers from Member States, together with representatives of the Commission and partner countries, for an informal meeting on 23-24 July 2026 in Dublin. The informal meeting provided an opportunity for informal and forward-looking discussions ahead of the formal Environment Council (ENV) meetings in October and December.

Other News

US President says that US will launch a Formal Investigation into the EU’s Trade Practices

US President Donald Trump, on Friday, 24 July 2026, said that the United States will launch a formal investigation into the EU’s trade practices, accusing the Union of unfairly imposing billions of dollars in fines on Google, Apple, and other US technology companies: “The United States of America is not a ‘PIGGYBANK’ for Europe, nor will we allow it to be!” This ties into the €890 million fine for Google announced on Thursday, 23 July 2026, for breaching the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which has been repeatedly criticised by the Trump Administration, as well as the Digital Services Act (DSA).

Articles/Speeches of Interest

• Massive forest fires reignite political tensions in Spain (POLITCO EU)
• Much ado about tariffs (Euractiv)
• Viktor Orbán calls for a new era of ‘resistance politics’ (Euronews)
• OpenAI says two of its models went rogue and hacked another tech company (The Irish Times)
• EU gives Russian luxury fur a pass (Euractiv)

13 – 19 July 2026

Activities in European Institutions

European Commission

The Commission Publishes the 2026 Rule of Law Report

The European Commission, on Friday, 17 July 2026, published their seventh annual Rule of Law Report, which assesses all EU Member States, as well as four candidate countries (Albania, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia) across four key areas of the rule of law: (i) justice systems, (ii) anti-corruption frameworks, (iii) media freedom and pluralism, and (iv) other institutional issues related to checks and balances. The Report sits at the centre of the annual Rule of Law Cycle, which serves to promote the rule of law and aims to prevent the emergence or deepening of problems.

According to the Commission, the 2026 Report confirms a broadly positive trajectory. For example, several Member States have developed new anti-corruption strategies and strengthened their institutional capacity to fight corruption. Across the four pillars, the Report emphasises the impact of the rule of law for the functioning of the Single Market and the operating environment for businesses. 

Second Meeting of the Palestine Donor Group (PDG)

The European Commission convened the second meeting of the Palestine Donor Group (PDG), on Monday, 13 July 2026. Sixty-five delegations gathered in Brussels for the launch of a new initiative for early recovery in Gaza and discussed the Palestinian Authority's Reform Agenda. The meeting was co-chaired by Commissioner for the Mediterranean, Dubravka Šuica, and the Palestinian Authority's (PA) Prime Minister, Mohammad Mustafa. The aim of the meeting was to deliver on two key outcomes: (i) increased financial pledges through the PEGASE mechanism and (ii) the launch of the Team Gaza Initiative. This initiative is rooted in the Rapid Damage and Needs Assessment for Gaza (April 2026) released by the EU, the UN, and the World Bank.

European Parliament

Meeting of the Parliament Subcommittee on Human Rights

The Parliament Subcommittee on Human Rights (DROI) met in Brussels on Wednesday, 15 July 2026, to debate a range of global human rights issues: (i) Members considered a draft report on the EU’s external action on AI and human rights, (ii) reviewed the worsening human rights situation in Guinea-Bissau following the 2025 coup, (iii) discussed EU support for the International Criminal Court (ICC), (iv) examined violence against women and girls in the context of surrogacy, (v) assessed the protection of civilians in the conflict in Lebanon, and (vi) followed up on efforts to combat transnational repression of human rights defenders. Moreover, members took part in a workshop dedicated to human control and AI-enabled military systems explored human rights risks, accountability, and policy options.

EU-India Cooperation on Digital Technology

The EU and India held the third meeting of their Trade and Technology Council (TTC) in Brussels on Wednesday, 15 July 2026, with the aim to reaffirming the TTC as a central platform for cooperation on trade, technology, and security. First announced by the European Commission in April 2022, and launched in February 2023, it is the EU's second such endeavour after the one with the United States. In the context of the growing ambition of the EU-India strategic partnership, both sides agreed to focus on strengthening strategic value chains and deepening business engagement. Moreover, the partners committed to finalising the upgrade of the TTC by the end of 2026, as foreseen in the Joint EU-India Comprehensive Strategic Agenda; adopted at the 16th EU-India Summit in January 2026. In this meeting, the EU and India agreed to collaborate in areas such as increased cooperation on semiconductors, high-performance computing, quantum technologies, artificial intelligence, and 6G; as well as starting formal negotiations on India's association to Horizon Europe.

Council of the EU

Council Appoints New Head of Mission of EULEX Kosovo

Mr. Antero Alfarela Oliveira Lopes was appointed by the Council as Head of Mission of the EU Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX Kosovo) on Wednesday, 15 July 2026. The initial mandate will last for a duration of 10 months, beginning on 10 August 2026. The Mission supports selected rule of law institutions in Kosovo on their path towards increased effectiveness, sustainability, multi-ethnicity and accountability, free from political interference and in full compliance with international human rights standards and European best practices. It was launched in 2008 as the largest civilian mission under the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP). In line with its current mandate, EULEX Kosovo carries out monitoring, mentoring, and advising activities and has limited executive responsibilities with its Formed Police Unit (FPU). 

EU Comprehensive Association Agreement with Andorra and San Marino

On Thursday, 16 July 2026, the Council authorised the signature and provisional application of the comprehensive association agreement between the EU and Andorra and San Marino. The association agreement will establish a framework to develop and promote dialogue and cooperation in areas of common interest, such as research and development, the environment, education and culture or regional cooperation. However, the key elements of the agreement include: (i) the participation of the two countries to a homogenous extended internal market under equal conditions of competition and respect for the same rules as Member States and (ii) access to the internal market in this area will be progressive and will depend on a successful audit of the robustness of the two countries' regulatory and supervisory frameworks.

Other News

State of Play on EU Support for Ukraine

There have been various developments related to the EU’s ongoing support for Ukraine this week, from the accession conference to defence and the extension of protection status. Firstly, on Tuesday, 14 July 2026, the EU held accession conferences with four candidate countries: Ukraine, Montenegro, Moldova, and Albania. At the third EU-Ukraine accession conference, the parties opened negotiations on cluster 6 (external relations), which covers two negotiating chapters: external relations (chapter 30) and foreign, security and defence policy (chapter 31). Secondly, on Wednesday, 15 July, the Commission and Ukraine signed a new defence industrial partnership, and the Commission launched the EU–Ukraine Drone Deal to deepen cooperation on drone and counter-drone technologies. Moreover, Member States agreed to extend the temporary protection status granted to those fleeing Ukraine until 4 March 2028. Finally, on Friday, 17 July, the Council decided to impose restrictive measures on one individual and five entities that form part of the Russian military-industrial complex. All five listed entities are part of the ABS Electro Group of companies, which develops and manufactures electronic and radio-electronic components needed for drone warfare.

Articles/Speeches of Interest

• Hungarian president fires himself, bowing out under pressure from Magyar (POLITICO EU)
• International flights set to pay carbon costs under EU’s carbon market review from 2029 (Euronews)
• Ukrainian soldiers criticise removal of popular defence minister (BBC)
• How can the EU rebuild Gaza while trading with illegal settlements? (Euractiv)
• Brussels warns dialogue with China ‘will not suffice’ (Euronews)

6 – 12 July 2026

Activities in European Institutions

European Commission

Meta Breaches Digital Services Act for the Addictive Design of their Social Media Apps

The Commission preliminarily found Meta in breach of the Digital Services Act (DSA) for the addictive design of Instagram and Facebook. The investigation focuses on features such as infinite scroll, autoplay, push notifications, and the platforms' highly personalised recommender systems. Moreover, the research indicates that Meta did not adequately assess the risks of its addictive design on the physical and mental wellbeing of users, including minors and vulnerable adults. Moreover, it states that risk mitigation measures such as time management tools, parental controls, and awareness-raising measures have lacked in their effectiveness. Meta now has the possibility to exercise its right to defence. If the Commission's views are ultimately confirmed, the Commission may issue a non-compliance decision, which can trigger a fine proportionate to the nature, gravity, recurrence and duration of the infringement, capped at 6% of the total worldwide annual turnover of the provider.

Commission’s Guidance to Strengthen Resilience of Critical Infrastructure

On Friday, 10 July 2026, the European Commission adopted a Communication which provides non-binding guidance on technical, security, and organisational measures to strengthen the resilience of critical infrastructure against natural and man-made risks The Communication offers practical guidance and recommendations to help address all hazards that could lead to disruptive incidents, including cross-sectoral or cross-border risks, accidents, natural disasters, public health emergencies, drone attacks, hybrid threats and other antagonistic threats. The guidelines are intended to support Member States in implementing the Critical Entities Resilience Directive and were identified as a key action under the EU Action Plan on Drone and Counter-Drone Security.

European Parliament

Taoiseach Sets Out Ireland’s EU Presidency Priorities at the European Parliament

On Tuesday, 7 July 2026, Roberta Metsola, European Parliament President, welcomed Taoiseach Micheál Martin to set out Ireland’s EU Presidency Priorities. These priorities are: EU Competitiveness, Values, and Security, and the Presidency will be guided by the principle of “strength with unity”. On competitiveness, Mr Martin noted that the Presidency will work to eliminate barriers, tackle unnecessary regulatory burdens, and boost internal market trade. Regarding values, the Taoiseach said that Ireland will aim to complete accession negotiations with Montenegro and make progress with other candidate countries. Moreover, The Irish Presidency will, the Taoiseach said, continue to support EU efforts toward achieving stability in Lebanon, Syria, and the wider Gulf region, as well as reaffirming the EU’s long-standing commitment to a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict. On security, he said the Presidency would continue its unwavering support for Ukraine. Additionally, the Presidency plans to support deep collaboration to build European resilience, particularly in the face of sophisticated hybrid threats, and to advance maritime and cyber security.

Parliament Votes on Online Privacy Rules in relation to Detecting Child Sexual Abuse

The European Parliament adopted amendments on Thursday, 9 July 2026, to a proposed temporary extension of an exemption to EU privacy rules, the ePrivacy Directive, that would allow electronic communications providers to voluntarily detect online child sexual abuse, while seeking to exempt end-to-end encrypted communications, such as WhatsApp, from the measure. At this stage in the process (EP second reading), an absolute majority of MEPs - currently 360 – was needed to reject or amend the Council position. Negotiations on a permanent legislative framework remain ongoing. Most elements of the proposed law were agreed during the Cyprus Presidency in the first half of 2026, with discussions continuing on several outstanding issues, according to the European Parliament.

Council of the EU

EU Ocean Act Conference in Wexford, Ireland

The Irish Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment organised the EU Ocean Act Conference in Wexford on 7-8 July 2026 at which delegates met with senior representatives of Government and discussed the draft European Ocean Act, a forthcoming EU law, planned for 2027, designed to unify ocean-related policies, strengthen maritime spatial planning, and promote sustainable use of marine resources. The EU Ocean Act represents a strategic opportunity for the Union to establish a comprehensive and legally binding framework for ocean governance, covering areas such as the blue economy, ocean science, transparent monitoring, and protection of marine ecosystems.

Informal Meeting of Competitiveness Ministers in Dublin, Ireland

An informal meeting of the Competitiveness (COMPET) Council (Internal Market and Industry) on 9-10 July 2026 in Dublin was chaired by Ireland’s Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke TD, and was attended by EU competitiveness ministers from the other 26 Member States, as well the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. Discussions focused on critical issues, including implementation of the “One Europe, One Market” agenda to accelerate EU-wide improvements and strengthen the Single Market, particularly through the removal of barriers affecting SMEs engaged in cross-border transactions and digital services.

Other News

The Parliament Adopts a Motion on Humanitarian Aid

On Thursday, 9 July 2026, the European Parliament’s Committee on Development (DEVE) adopted a motion for a resolution on the joint communication on humanitarian aid, published by the European Commission and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy on Wednesday, 27 May 2026, entitled “Defending values, driving reform, delivering impact: the EU’s humanitarian action in a shifting global order”. In this motion, firstly, the Parliament condemned the obstruction of humanitarian aid; the delivery of humanitarian aid to advance military agendas; and the politicisation of humanitarian aid. Moreover, MEPs said the Commission and EU Member States should unequivocally condemn the killing of humanitarian workers and invest in the investigations and prosecution of perpetrators. Finally, the resolution reflected Parliament’s concerns about the global humanitarian and development funding crisis and the need for EU leadership.

Articles/Speeches of Interest

• How Europe can win the (economic) World Cup (Euractiv)
• Europe’s economy is a mess. Its stock markets are a steal (The Economist)
• Nine European countries and Ukraine form anti-ballistic missile coalition (Euronews)
• Department of Justice accused Government of ‘knowingly under-resourcing’ EU presidency budget (The Irish Times)
• Kremlin accuses EU of canceling Russian culture after budget cuts to Venice Biennale (POLITICO EU)

29 June – 5 July 2026

Activities in European Institutions

European Commission

New Initiative for “Fairer Competition” and “Consumer Protection”: A €3 Customs Duty on Non-EU Low-Value Parcels

The EU introduced a temporary €3 customs duty on low-value parcels, up to €150, imported from outside the EU on Wednesday, 1 July 2026. These new measures are a responsibility of the seller or importer and aim to help create fairer competition for EU businesses, better protect consumers from unsafe products, tackle customs fraud, and address environmental concerns over mass shipping. The new customs duty will apply per tariff classification rather than per product quantity. For example, if two consumers each purchase five products from an e-commerce website, and the first consumer buys five T-shirts, a single €3 customs duty will apply because all items fall under the same tariff classification. However, if the second consumer buys three T-shirts and two watches, a €6 customs duty will apply because T-shirts and watches fall under two different tariff classifications.

President von der Leyen meets with Leaders from Azerbaijan and Armenia

In the context of developing the EU’s strategic engagement with the two former rivals in the South Caucasus, European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, met with the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, in Baku, Azerbaijan, on Wednesday, 1 July 2026, and with the Prime Minister of Armenia, Nikol Pashinyan, on Thursday, 2 July 2026, in Yerevan, Armenia.This was President von der Leyen’s first visit since Armenia and Azerbaijan agreed to make peace after decades of war over Karabakh and first visit to Baku since 2022, when the EU and Azerbaijan signed their strategic energy partnership as Europe moved away from Russian energy and needed urgent alternative gas supplies. In the President’s statement in Armenia, she announced a “€200 million Global Gateway package for peace through connectivity”. She stated that with the EU’s financial partners, the Union aims to mobilise up to €2 billion for strategic transport, energy, and digital projects all across the South Caucasus.

European Parliament

EU Citizen’s Opinions towards the EU: EP Eurobarometer Survey Spring 2026

The EP published the results, on Wednesday, 1 July 2026, for the Spring 2026 Eurobarometer survey, which gauges how citizens perceive the quality of life in the EU. The survey was conducted face to face and with video interviews (CAVI) carried out between 9 April and 4 May 2026 in all 27 EU Member States. A total of 26,421 interviews were conducted, and results were weighted according to the size of the population. Firstly, 74% of Europeans view EU membership as beneficial. This is the highest result ever recorded in a Eurobarometer survey for this question since it was first asked in 1983, only matched before in 2025. However, recent global developments have heightened the pessimistic outlook Europeans have on the future of the world: 58% are pessimistic (versus 38% optimistic) and 73% want the Union to have more means to face global challenges. In this context, a large majority of Europeans would like Member States to be more united and said the EU should promote respect for international law by all countries (both 90%).

EU Law Tracker Gains EU Institutions an Ombudsman Award

EU institutions won the 2026 Ombudsman Award for Excellence in Open Administration for user-friendly EU Law Tracker on Tuesday, 30 June 2026. The EU Law Tracker, launched by the three institutions, in cooperation with the Publications Office, is a user-friendly online tool that brings together key legislative information in one place. According to the EU, the primary goal of the EU Law Tracker is transparency and traceability of laws for the general public, as it consolidates available information into one user-friendly timeline. Following technical finalisation in late 2025 / early 2026, the tool is now being rolled out broadly across all official EU languages.

Council of the EU

The Demographic Dimension of Europe’s Housing Crisis

The conclusions of the Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council (EPSCO) on Monday, 29 June 2026, recognised that housing is a cross-cutting issue relating to broader societal factors such as social inclusion, family formation, environmental sustainability, and labour mobility. While acknowledging that housing is primarily a Member State competence, the Council invites the Commission to continue supporting member states’ efforts to improve access to suitable and affordable housing. In its conclusions, the Council noted that the housing crisis is having a disproportionate effect on certain groups, such as young people, older persons, persons with disabilities, families with children, low- and middle-income households, and essential workers.

Irish Presidency of the Council of the EU

On Wednesday, 1 July 2026, the Official Opening Ceremony for Ireland’s eighth term holding the Presidency of the Council of the EU took place in Dublin Castle. Ireland took on the Presidency role from Cyprus and will pass the role onto Lithuania on 1 January 2027. Members of the Irish Government, including An Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, An Tánaiste, Simon Harris, Minister Helen McEntee, Minister Seán Canney and Minister Thomas Byrne welcomed the occasion. The opening ceremony included a flag raising ceremony led by the Irish Defence Forces. The Irish National Anthem, Amhrán na bhFiann, was performed by the Defence Forces band and the Dublin Youth Choir. They also performed the EU anthem, Ode to Joy, in Ukrainian, Irish, English, and German. MC Carrie Crowley, Irish actress and former broadcaster, introduced various cultural performances as well. The President of the European Council, António Costa, and the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, also gave speeches at the ceremony.

Additionally, the College of Commissioners met with members of the Irish Government from the 2-3 July 2026 in County Cork. The visit’s objective was to provide an opportunity for strategic engagement between the European Commission and the Irish Presidency at the outset of the term. Discussions focus on key EU policy areas linked to the priorities of the Presidency and conclude with a plenary session chaired by An Taoiseach and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen.

Other News

State of Play on Regulation of AI and the Digital Sphere

As part of the EU’s simplification agenda, the Council gave its final green light on a new law forming part of the Omnibus VII legislative package on Artificial Intelligence (AI). This regulation adds a new provision in the AI Act, prohibiting AI practices regarding the generation of non-consensual sexual and intimate content or child sexual abuse material (CSAM). AI systems that generate nude images of real people or edit clothes out in existing photos to reveal intimate parts are set to be banned as of December 2026.

Furthermore, the Council has approved conclusions, based on a report by the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE), calling on EU countries and the Commission to improve protection for girls and young women in the digital sphere. Ministers demand more effective measures to prevent and combat the various forms of online abuse, including cyberstalking, online harassment, non-consensual image sharing, and sexist hate speech. The recommended measures to combat cyber violence are available here.

Articles/Speeches of Interest

• How to navigate Ireland’s EU presidency policy agenda like a pro (POLITICO EU)
• Brussels pivots from climate mitigation to adaptation as heatwaves expose vulnerabilities (Euronews)
• Right, far right to govern Spain’s key Andalusia region (Euractiv)
• Why the EEAS is fighting for its future (POLITICO EU)
• Ryanair warns of queue chaos from new EU border system (BBC)