On 10 September 2025, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will deliver her annual State of the Union address (SOTEU) at the European Parliament in Strasbourg. This high-profile event is one of the most important moments in the EU’s political calendar. It sets out the Union’s priorities for the coming year and reflects on how Europe is responding to the major challenges of our time.

Why the SOTEU Matters

The SOTEU is more than just a speech. It is a moment of accountability and vision:

• Accountability because the Commission reports back to citizens and the European Parliament on what has been achieved so far.
• Vision because it maps out the direction for Europe’s future — from strengthening security and competitiveness to tackling climate change and supporting global partnerships.

In 2025, this address carries particular weight: it comes in the first year of the new Commission mandate, at a time when Europe faces ongoing geopolitical tensions, the need to accelerate the green transition, and the imperative to boost economic resilience.

Immediately after the speech, Members of the European Parliament will engage in a live debate, questioning and challenging the Commission’s vision. This democratic exchange makes the SOTEU a vital moment for transparency and dialogue in the EU — giving citizens across Europe a clear sense of how decisions in Brussels affect their lives.

How You Can Follow the SOTEU

The State of the Union 2025 will be broadcast live online on 10 September. Citizens, businesses, policymakers, and civil society alike are encouraged to tune in, reflect on the proposals, and join the wider conversation on Europe’s future.

👉 Discover more and follow updates here: ec.europa.eu/soteu