Strasbourg:The European Parliament is set to tackle a range of significant issues during its plenary session from October 5-8, 2026. Discussions will cover topics including the EU's long-term budget priorities, defence innovation, housing affordability, and responses to the cost-of-living crisis.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the session will feature a debate with Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and the Irish Presidency on the 15-16 October EU summit. Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) will also focus on developments in negotiations for the EU's next long-term budget, following demands made last April.
The Parliament is expected to approve the AGILE programme, which aims to enhance EU defence innovation in response to the security environment altered by Russia's war on Ukraine. Additionally, MEPs will discuss measures to address soaring housing prices and the cost-of-living crisis.
MEPs will also deliberate on Russia's recent undemocratic elections and the situation in Ukraine with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas. Another key topic will be the EU's political relations with China, with MEPs voting on a resolution addressing these concerns.
Portuguese Prime Minister Lus Montenegro will participate in the 'This is Europe' debate on Tuesday, providing an opportunity for further discourse on European unity.
Furthermore, the session will cover digital safety for children, worker protection from hazardous chemicals, and combating illegal and falsified medicines. The fight against corruption in the EU and support for workers in Belgium, Spain, and Finland will also be on the agenda.
Finally, the Parliament will discuss countering Islamist entryism and the influence of the Muslim Brotherhood network, alongside urgent debates on human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.