On 15 September 2021, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, delivered her 2021 State of the European Union address before the Members of the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France presenting her priorities for the year ahead and outlining her vision for how the European Union could evolve by years.

From this perspective, Ursula von der Leyen focused her speech on Europe's recovery from the coronavirus crisis, stressing notably health preparedness, social dimension, technological leadership and a defence Union.

The President also underlined the importance of staying true to European values, including caring for the most vulnerable, standing up for media freedom, reinforcing the Rule of Law in the Union and empowering our youth. She also encouraged global partnerships to act on climate change.

On this occasion, Ursula von der Leyen’s address was also followed by speeches and discussions with Members of the European Parliament. 

This video shows the introductory remarks of Roberta Metsola, First Vice-President of the European Parliament, in the framework of the key debate on the State of the Union 2021.