Source: European Commission (video statements)
In her State of the European Union speech (SOTEU 2025), President Ursula von der Leyen stresses the growing threats to democracy: disinformation, weakened media, and divided societies. The EU is planning bold steps: a European Democracy Shield, a Centre for Democratic Resilience, and new support for local, independent journalism. Because a free press is the backbone of democracy.
#soteu2025
Source: European Commission (video statements)
In her State of the European Union 2025, President Ursula von der Leyen highlighted the EU’s €500 billion trade relationship with the United States, supporting millions of European jobs. She stressed that Europe sets its own standards, its own regulations, and always decides for itself.
Beyond the US, the EU was deepening global partnerships — from Mexico to Mercosur — and moving towards a historic trade deal with India. These steps aimed to diversify markets and strengthen Europe’s economic security in uncertain times.
#SOTEU2025
Source: European Commission (video statements)
On 10 September 2025, the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, delivered the State of the European Union address – known as SOTEU – to the European Parliament.
The SOTEU address is an annual speech by the President of the European Commission to the European Parliament, setting the priorities for the Union for the year ahead.
In her speech, President von der Leyen called for unity among European nations and institutions to ensure Europe’s independence, security, and ability to determine its own destiny, especially in light of external threats and challenges such as Russia’s aggression and global economic shifts. Her speech underscored initiatives to support Ukraine, address climate change, food security, enhance technological and economic competitiveness, foster EU-US trade, and manage migration. Furthermore, she focused on protecting democracy and the rule of law within the EU.
The address is followed by a debate with Members of the European Parliament, reinforcing accountability. Each SOTEU speech sets out the President’s vision and major initiatives for the upcoming year, marking an important moment to shape the EU’s direction and respond to citizens’ expectations.
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https://europa.eu/!9BFXkc
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Source: European Commission (video statements)
In her State of the European Union 2025 speech, President Ursula von der Leyen stressed the importance of European Union Migration Control.
Europe must build a migration system that is both humane and realistic. She highlighted the need for a rapid agreement on the Common European Return System, a new sanctions regime against smugglers and traffickers, and the swift implementation of the Pact on Migration and Asylum.
Her message is clear: protecting those fleeing war and persecution must go hand in hand with securing Europe’s borders, and success will depend on all Member States playing their part.
#SOTEU2025
Source: European Commission (video statements)
Europe must take responsibility for its own security. EUR 800 billion in Readiness 2030, SAFE programme at full speed, Eastern Flank watch, space surveillance, and a Baltic drone wall: Europe will defend every inch of its territory.
Source: European Commission (video statements)
In her State of the European Union speech (SOTEU 2025), President Ursula von Der Leyen addresses the housing crisis and she is putting affordable housing as a clear goal for Europe’s future.
This year, the European Commission will present the first European Affordable Housing Plan that will make homes more affordable, sustainable, and accessible across Europe. From revising state aid rules to supporting student housing and tackling short-term rentals, this plan aims to turn housing into a social right for all.
#SOTEU2025
Source: European Commission (video statements)
President von der Leyen emphasizes: the online world offers creativity, learning, and connection but also serious risks. It’s time parents, not algorithms, guide our children online. Australia is pioneering social media restrictions, and the EU is ready to adapt them for Europe.
Source: European Commission (video statements)
In response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the European Commission is proposing a comprehensive package that includes holding bilateral support to Israel without affecting work with civil society, sanctions on extremist ministers and violent settlers, and a partial suspension of the Association Agreement on trade-related matters.
A new Palestine donor group will be set up to coordinate international reconstruction efforts for Gaza, building on momentum from the New York conference organised by France and Saudi Arabia. Europe continues to support a two-state solution with security for Israel, a viable Palestinian Authority, and the removal of Hamas as a terrorist threat.
This plan underscores Europe’s commitment to real security, immediate humanitarian access, and a sustainable path toward peace in the region.
Source: European Commission (video statements)
In her State of the European Union speech (SOTEU 2025), President Ursula von der Leyen calls for urgent support for Ukraine.
Sasha was only 11 when Russian forces took him. His story is sadly not unique; every abducted child must be returned, and Russia must be held accountable.
Ukraine’s fight is Europe’s fight. Their freedom is our freedom. We back Ukraine with a Reparations Loan from Russian assets, the Qualitative Military Edge programme, and a Drone Alliance.
Source: European Commission (video statements)
On 10 September 2025, the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, delivers the State of the European Union address – known as SOTEU – to the European Parliament.
The SOTEU address is an annual speech by the President of the European Commission to the European Parliament, setting her priorities for the Union for the year ahead.
The address is followed by a debate with Members of the European Parliament, reinforcing accountability. Each SOTEU speech sets out the President’s vision and major initiatives for the year ahead, marking an important moment to shape the EU’s direction and respond to citizens’ expectations.
Find out more about SOTEU here:
https://europa.eu/!9BFXkc
Find audiovisual coverage around SOTEU on our AV Portal:
https://europa.eu/!kVpHFX
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