Solidarity measures to support Ukraine and sanctions against Russia
Highlights
- 19 October 2026
EU countries pledge to do more to prevent and address homelessness and housing exclusion
EU countries pledge to do more to prevent and address homelessness and housing exclusion
The Council is putting forward a comprehensive range of measures that combine emergency support with longer-term solutions for preventing homelessness and ensuring access to adequate and secure housing, in a recommendation adopted on 19 October 2026.
- 20 October 2026
Council and Parliament agree on new EU rules for organic products
Council and Parliament agree on new EU rules for organic products
- 19 October 2026
EU strengthens protection of workers from exposure to hazardous substances
EU strengthens protection of workers from exposure to hazardous substances
- 19 October 2026
MFF: EU agriculture ministers agree on the common market organisation for agricultural products
MFF: EU agriculture ministers agree on the common market organisation for agricultural products
- 19 October 2026
Council calls for greater equality to boost EU competitiveness
Council calls for greater equality to boost EU competitiveness
Press releases
- Joint statement by the President of the European Council António Costa and the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen
- Council and Parliament strike deal on updated measures to support organic farming in the EU
- Media advisory - Accreditation for the Special European Council, 26 and 27 November 2026
In focus
Organic farming
Organic farming
The EU's long-term budget for 2028–2034
The EU's long-term budget for 2028–2034
EU solidarity with Ukraine
EU solidarity with Ukraine
Explore popular topics
Competitive and autonomous industries, reducing dependencies
Trade relations with partners worldwide
Candidate countries and the process of joining the EU
Responding to conflicts and crises, protecting citizens
Free movement of goods, services, capital and people in the EU
Securing a sustainable and affordable energy supply
EU relations with the countries of the Middle East and North Africa
Net-zero economy and fighting against climate change
The Council presidency
The member states take it in turn to chair Council meetings for six months. Ireland currently holds the Council presidency and will do so until 31 December 2026.
About the Council
The Council refers to two different EU institutions: the European Council, and the Council of the EU. They have very different roles and membership, although they have similar names and share the same staff.
The European Council
The European Council consists of the heads of state or government of the EU's member states, together with its President and the European Commission President. It defines the EU's general political directions and priorities.
The Council of the EU
The Council of the EU represents the member states' governments. Informally also known as the EU Council, it is where national ministers from each EU country meet to adopt laws and coordinate policies.
