Von der Leyen will take stock of the Commission's achievements and shortcomings over the past year and present her priorities. This will be followed by a debate with group leaders, Members of the European Parliament, and the Council presidency.
External borders
Migration and monitoring of the external borders are expected to be key issues. The Commission is preparing an expansion of the powers of the border agency Frontex. This includes a larger role in return operations, cooperation with non-EU countries, cross-border crime, and combating hybrid threats.
There is also consideration to triple the permanent Frontex corps to 30,000 border guards. The recent migration crisis in the Spanish enclave of Ceuta has rekindled the discussion about European border surveillance. Tens of thousands of migrants arrived there, sparking renewed debate over the management of Europe's external borders and Frontex’s role.
Promotion
TikTok
Another topic Von der Leyen is expected to address is the protection of children from social media. European rules are being developed regarding the age at which children gain access to platforms. Proposals circulating include restrictions for children under thirteen and a threshold of fifteen years, possibly requiring parental consent.
Competitiveness is also cited as an important topic for the speech. This involves high energy prices, complex regulations, and foreign competition. The economic relationship with China and the US is also expected to be discussed, along with plans to strengthen European industry and reduce economic dependencies.
Trade agreements
Furthermore, the diversification of European trade relations is expected to be mentioned. Strengthening ties with like-minded countries is noted in this context. This subject may be linked with economic competition with China and tensions in relations with the United States.
Finally, strengthening the internal market is cited as a potentially important theme. The debate will likely focus on competitiveness, jobs, and a stronger, more integrated European internal market. The Commission is working on its roadmap “One Europe, one market.”
Defense
Defense, security, and Ukraine are also among the topics sources say will reappear in the speech. This includes boosting Europe’s military capacity and defense industry and support for Ukraine. Possible further enlargement of the EU to include Ukraine and the Western Balkans may also be addressed.
Von der Leyen is also expected to look ahead to negotiations on the multiannual budget for 2028-2034. This concerns future priority spending and possible new revenue sources. The size and allocation of this budget have yet to be determined in negotiations.