Overview of the main topics and events at the Council of EU and European Council for the coming fortnight.

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 escalating hybrid campaign targeting the EU and its member states and the situation in the Middle East in light of the latest developments. Ministers will also discuss about the impacts of enlargement on the EU’s security and, under current affairs, Georgia.

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.

Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council (Employment and social policy), 19 October 2026

Employment and social affairs ministers are expected to adopt a recommendation on housing exclusion, including homelessness. They will also share their expectations for the upcoming Quality Jobs Act, and will seek to approve conclusions on equality as a driver for economic growth and competitiveness.