Source: European Parliament
As per the communication ‘The road to the next multiannual financial framework’[1] from 11 February 2025, the Commission’s proposal for the next multiannual financial framework will ensure a simpler, more focused and more impactful budget aligned with EU priorities.
The future budget will aim for a strengthened cohesion and growth policy, with regions at the centre, as underscored in the Commission’s political guidelines[2], and continue to actively support islands and mountain areas, considering their specific needs and challenges, notably in terms of economic development, adaptation to climate change, connectivity, migration and demographic transition.
At the core of this modernised budget will be a national and regional partnership plan for each country with key reforms and investments, focusing on EU’s joint priorities, including promoting economic, social and territorial cohesion, and designed and implemented in partnership with national, regional, and local authorities to address their specificities.
A place-based approach remains essential to respond to the unique challenges faced by the regions and territories. By combining key investments and reforms within one plan, it will be possible to address these challenges in a way that is more targeted and comprehensive.
This approach will mix specific investments, legislative and regulatory levers, and technical support, to ensure rapid and effective deployment of funds aligned to local needs and European priorities.
The plan’s single rulebook, wide eligibility scope and large financial toolbox, enabling the use of leverage through financial instruments, will help reduce the administrative burden for beneficiaries and allow for the design of more effective measures, tailored to the needs of each territory.