EU's Multiannual Financial Framework
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The European Union's Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) is the EU’s long-term budgetary plan, spanning seven years and determining funding priorities across key sectors such as agriculture, development, humanitarian aid, and media support. It ensures that EU spending remains predictable and within agreed limits, facilitating effective financial planning and the implementation of EU policies.
The MFF is currently undergoing a midterm review, while negotiations for the next framework (2028–2034) have already begun. The process starts with the European Commission drafting a proposal, expected in June 2025. This proposal, presented as a regulatory text, will be debated and negotiated by the European Parliament and the Council to finalise the structure, funding instruments, and allocation mechanisms. The MFF plays a critical role in setting political priorities, as the allocation of funding reflects broader policy goals and trade-offs.
However, significant challenges exist. Political trends, particularly the increasing influence of far-right parties in the European Parliament and Member States, are leading to reduced funding for sectors like human rights, freedom of information, and civil society. Midterm reallocations of the current MFF have already shifted priorities toward trade and migration containment, deprioritizing human rights as a standalone focus. Additionally, proposals such as merging humanitarian aid, development aid, and pre-accession aid into a single fund risk undermining targeted interventions in areas with distinct and critical needs.
To mitigate these risks, advocacy is essential before the European Commission finalises its proposal. Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) should present unified sectoral priorities and emphasise the importance of preserving funding envelopes for civil society and development assistance. Additionally, EU officials responsible for internal budget negotiations require compelling evidence, such as success stories and tangible impact assessments, to defend their funding allocations. Coordinated advocacy efforts will be crucial to ensuring that the next MFF supports the EU’s commitment to human rights, development, and civil society.
Currently, the Commission has two open consultations, which deadline is set on May 6, 2025.