On 16 July 2025, the European Commission unveiled its proposal for the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), describing it as the most ambitious, flexible, and strategic budget the EU has ever put forward. With a total value of €2 trillion, the proposal aims to reinforce European independence and sovereignty, boost investment in people, regions, innovation, and security, ensure transparency and compliance with the rule of law, and maintain stable national contributions through the introduction of new EU own resources.
At the heart of the proposal is a new central investment tool: the National and Regional Partnership Plans. These plans integrate funding across key policy areas such as cohesion, agriculture, social policy, and more, with a total budget of €865 billion. Of this amount, at least €218 billion is earmarked for cohesion funding, particularly targeting less developed regions. Importantly, 14% of the Partnership Plans’ total is dedicated to social expenditure, which will now be tracked for the first time across the entire MFF.
The Erasmus+ programme is also set to see a substantial expansion, with its budget increasing by 50%. Although the exact figures have not yet been published, the emphasis on youth, education, and mobility is clear. In the area of culture and civic engagement, the new AGORA-EU programme will build on the achievements of Creative Europe and CERV. It is designed to promote media freedom, civil rights, democracy, and diversity, while civil society organisations will receive further support through both the Partnership Plans and the new European Competitiveness Fund. The LIFE Programme, supporting environmental protection, biodiversity, and the circular economy, will also continue.
In research and innovation, the budget for Horizon Europe will be significantly boosted through the €410 billion European Competitiveness Fund. With funding doubled compared to previous cycles, the EU aims to strengthen its global leadership in science, clean technologies, and digital innovation.
The future of the EU’s long-term budget will be decided by the Council, where Member States must act unanimously, and with the approval of the European Parliament.
While the increased investment is a welcome sign of ambition, it must translate into meaningful and measurable support for people across Europe. Key details are still missing about how these funds will truly contribute to building an inclusive and fair Social Europe.
