This week will feature a particularly packed agenda. On the digital front, telecommunications ministers will discuss the Digital Networks Act in Limerick, and Ireland will host an international summit on artificial intelligence. On sustainability, the Environment Council will focus on the review of the EU Emissions Trading System and preparations for the upcoming UN climate and biodiversity conferences. The European Week of Regions and Cities will also take place in Brussels.
DIGITAL
Monday 12 to Tuesday 13 October (Limerick). EU ministers responsible for telecommunications will meet informally to discuss the Digital Networks Act, subsea cable connectivity, network resilience and consumer protection. European Commission Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen will also attend.
Monday 12 October (Brussels). EU Code Week 2026 will open with an event dedicated to digital skills, coding and resilience in the age of artificial intelligence. Speakers will include European Parliament President Roberta Metsola and Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen.
Wednesday 14 October (Dublin). The International AI Summit will bring together policymakers and industry representatives to discuss competitiveness, innovation and the adoption of artificial intelligence. Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen will deliver a keynote address; Commissioner Michael McGrath will close the event with remarks on a trusted digital economy.
SUSTAINABILITY
Monday 12 October (Luxembourg). The Environment Council will discuss the review of the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) and conclusions ahead of the UN climate (COP31) and biodiversity (COP17) conferences.
Monday 12 to Tuesday 13 October (Prague). The 19th European Nuclear Energy Forum will examine the opportunities and risks associated with nuclear energy, including in light of the Commission’s initiatives on the Nuclear Illustrative Programme and the strategy for small modular reactors. The agenda will also cover the safe management of radioactive waste and spent fuel.
Monday 12 October (Brussels). The European Commission will hold a workshop on Biotech Act II, bringing stakeholders together to discuss options for strengthening the EU’s industrial biotechnology and biomanufacturing sectors. Topics will include the bioeconomy, carbon flows and the shift from fossil-based to bio-based feedstocks.
Thursday 15 October (Brussels). The fifth European Energy Efficiency Day will bring together representatives from the institutions, industry and civil society. Discussions will focus on the role of energy efficiency in the clean transition, industrial competitiveness, energy costs and security of supply.
HEALTH
Tuesday 13 to Wednesday 14 October (Dublin). “Data in Motion” will focus on implementing the European Health Data Space (EHDS), covering the use of data in healthcare and treatment, as well as in research and innovation. The programme will also include a meeting of the Community of Practice on the secondary use of health data.
Thursday 15 October (Cork). The conference “Resilient Europe: Mental Health as a Strategic Asset for Europe’s Strength and Competitiveness” will discuss the role of mental health in preparing for and responding to health crises, including psychosocial support and support for vulnerable groups.
OTHER EVENTS
Monday 12 to Wednesday 14 October (Brussels). The European Week of Regions and Cities will take place, organised by the European Commission and the European Committee of the Regions. This year’s edition will focus on cohesion policy and the contribution of regions to growth, resilience and the quality of public services.
Tuesday 13 October (Luxembourg). The General Affairs Council will discuss the EU’s next long-term budget for 2028–2034 and prepare for the European Council. The agenda will also include the rule of law in Hungary and conclusions on the European Democracy Shield.
Thursday 15 to Friday 16 October (Brussels). The European Council will meet to discuss competitiveness, Ukraine, the long-term budget, the Middle East, defence and security, migration, and enlargement.
