Ursula von der Leyen will present the EU agenda on September 16

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will present an assessment of the Community executive’s work over the past year and its priorities for the period ahead on September 16, in her sixth State of the Union address. The speech comes amid wars, wildfires, economic pressures and strained relations with the Donald Trump administration.

According to European officials quoted by POLITICO, one of the main topics will be artificial intelligence. Von der Leyen is expected to discuss the technology’s impact on the labor market and measures to boost European competitiveness, including by reducing bureaucracy and simplifying regulations.

Climate change will also feature prominently, following a summer marked by drought and wildfires. The Commission is preparing a plan to increase Europe’s resilience, with possible references to water management and the circular economy.

The speech could address topics such as diversifying trade relations, strengthening Frontex and managing migration pressures. In the defense field, references to the future European security strategy are expected.

Von der Leyen also confirmed that she will announce plans to introduce age restrictions for access to social media and protect children online.