In the second half of 2026, Ireland will assume the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union (EU), the eighth time that the country will take on this role.

The paper assesses how the role of the rotating presidency has evolved over time, transitioning from a 'shaping' role in the EU agenda for the country at the helm, to more of a 'steering role'.

It then considers some of the themes and topics that are likely to make up Ireland’s priorities for the forthcoming presidency, including the EU’s competitiveness, resilience, values, and enlargement agendas. 

The paper then reviews some of the main legislative files and initiatives that are likely to coincide with the Irish Presidency, including from across the digital, financial, social, and environmental policy realms. It also refers to the outsized role that factors such as the EU’s multiannual financial framework (MFF), the EU’s budget, which is due to be completed in 2027, or the war in Ukraine, might have on EU policy during the Irish presidency.

The paper concludes by referencing how, aside from any legislative objectives or achievements, the rotating presidency affords an opportunity for each Member State, including Ireland, to be at the centre of things for a period, which in turn helps to highlight the culture and essence of the EU – in keeping with its motto of being ‘in varietate concordia’ (‘united in diversity’).