On 16 October, the European Commission presented a climate and energy strategy that aims to strengthen the EU's clean technology production capacity with a view to achieving a 15% share of the global market, while improving industrial competitiveness, in line with the Clean Industry Pact. To achieve this, the European Union is proposing measures to support the global energy transition, encourage investment in clean technologies, strengthen resilience to climate change and promote European companies internationally by connecting them to investment opportunities.

On 17 October, ministers approved conclusions on violence against women and domestic violence. In particular, they called for improved training for workers and the adoption of measures to protect and support children. They also discussed the social inclusion of people with disabilities.

On 20 October, energy ministers reached an agreement to phase out remaining imports of natural gas and oil from Russia, setting a deadline of 1 January 2028 for a total ban on such imports.

On 16 and 17 October, the Observatory of History Teaching in Europe (OHTE) held its 5th annual conference in Strasbourg. This conference provided an opportunity to present the report entitled: 'Economic crises in history teaching'. It examines the extent to which and the ways in which pupils are prepared to understand and deal with crises through history teaching in school systems.

Following a visit to Kyiv from 8 to 10 October, rapporteurs from the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) welcomed on 17 October the numerous reforms implemented by the Ukrainian authorities to ensure compliance with European standards. Among other things, they highlighted the remarkable progress made by Ukraine in the fight against endemic corruption. However, they noted that significant challenges remained.

Until 25 January 2026, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum in Madrid is hosting the exhibition 'Warhol, Pollock, and Other American Spaces'. This exhibition, in collaboration with the City of Madrid, aims to bring together the works of two major figures in 20th-century art, Andy Warhol and Jackson Pollock. It is an exhibition that presents two extraordinarily complex figures, very different in appearance, but in reality united, like a whole generation of artists, by their interest in the evolving pictorial tradition, spatial issues and a fascination with large formats.

Until 15 February 2026, the Musée des Beaux-Arts in Lausanne is hosting the largest retrospective ever devoted to the Franco-Swiss artist Félix Vallotton (1865-1925). The exhibition offers both a chronological and thematic overview, bringing together for the first time all facets of his work: the painter and engraver engage in dialogue with the illustrator and press cartoonist. More than 250 works are on display.

From 24 to 26 October, Art Basel Paris returns to the Grand Palais for its second edition. This art fair has established itself as one of the major events in the global contemporary art scene, with 206 galleries participating, including 63 based in France. The aim is to celebrate Paris's historical and contemporary role as a hotbed of artistic, intellectual and creative avant-garde movements, highlighting visionary galleries, pioneering artists and bold multidisciplinary collaborations.

Marina Abramović, a leading figure in contemporary art and founder of modern performance art, is on display at the Albertina Modern in Vienna until 1 March 2026. The exhibition features works from her early days in Belgrade, her first solo performances, and her famous collaborations with her life partner, Ulay.

Until 1 November, the town of Wexford in Ireland is hosting its opera festival on the theme of myths and legends. The programme includes operas, concerts, meetings and pop-up stores. Since its launch in 1951, this festival has welcomed visitors and artists from all over the world. In particular, this event has helped to promote little-known works that have become popular, such as those by Donizetti and Massenet.

On 25 October, the Cartier Foundation for Contemporary Art will unveil its new premises on Place du Palais-Royal in Paris. To mark the occasion, the foundation is hosting the 'Exposition Générale', tracing forty years of contemporary art at the Fondation Cartier through a collection built up over the course of its programming. This exhibition will run until 23 August 2026.

On 19 October, the 4th meeting of the Cooperation Council between the European Union and Iraq was held. The two sides discussed migration, democracy and human rights, development, trade and energy. Finally, the parties addressed regional issues and security.

Despite recurring criticism of its slowness and divisions, the European Union is moving forward, particularly on defence issues in the face of external threats. Its military budget is growing rapidly and principles such as European preference are emerging. As mistrust of the United States grows, Europe is asserting its sovereignty more strongly. It remains a beacon of democracy and the rule of law, capable of adapting to the challenges of today's world.

On 16 October, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called on the European Union to become a 'force for peace' in front of members of the Bundestag. He asked the 27 Member States to strengthen their influence on the international stage, in particular by supporting Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression. He proposed a €140 billion European loan to Kyiv, guaranteed by frozen Russian assets and intended for the purchase of military equipment. He called for a strengthening of European defences against Russian hybrid threats while improving European economic competitiveness through a thorough reform of institutions.

In its publication on the economic outlook for Europe released on 17 October, the IMF warns: 'Without stronger growth and fiscal consolidation, European debt could reach an average of 130% of GDP by 2040, requiring significant fiscal rebalancing.' In the short term, the aim is to safeguard price stability, begin consolidating public finances and preserve trade openness. In the long term, growth will depend on urgent structural reforms.

On 17 October, the OECD and the G20 published a report on risk mitigation measures in blended finance. It examines how guarantees and credit enhancement mechanisms can better contribute to mobilising private capital for sustainable infrastructure in emerging markets and developing economies.

On 14 October, Finland joined the Tallinn Mechanism, which aims to coordinate and facilitate the strengthening of civilian cyber capabilities to help Ukraine maintain its fundamental right to self-defence in cyberspace in the face of Russian aggression. On 18 October, the European Union and Ukraine held their fourth dialogue on cyberspace in Kyiv, reiterating their strong commitment to cooperation on cybersecurity and cyber diplomacy. The European Union and Ukraine discussed their respective response mechanisms, including their sanctions regimes against Russia.