Forward look: 5 – 18 October 2026
Overview of the main topics and events at the Council of EU and European Council for the coming fortnight.
Economic and Financial Affairs Council, 9 October 2026
The Council will be invited to agree its position on the market integration and supervision package – a key element of the EU’s savings and investments union. EU finance ministers will also, among other topics, exchange views on the competitiveness of the banking sector.
Environment Council, 12 October 2026
Environment and climate ministers will meet in Luxembourg to discuss the proposed review of the EU’s emissions trading system. They will also seek to approve conclusions on the EU’s main negotiating positions ahead of the United Nations climate change (COP31) and biodiversity (COP17) summits.
Foreign Affairs Council, 12 October 2026
The Council will exchange views on Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and the situation in the Middle East in light of the latest developments. Ministers will also discuss the impacts of enlargement on the EU’s security.
General Affairs Council, 13 October 2026
Ministers for European affairs will meet in Luxembourg to continue preparations for the October European Council by discussing draft conclusions and will hold a policy debate on the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028-2034. The Council will also receive an update on the rule of law situation in Hungary in the context of the Article 7 procedure and will be invited to approve conclusions on inclusive democratic participation and community resilience.
European Council, 15-16 October 2026
EU leaders will gather in Brussels to discuss competitiveness, Ukraine, the next Multiannual Financial Framework, Middle East, European defence and security, migration, enlargement and reforms.
