Summary report: Who Pays, Who Gains? - The New Proposed Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF)
The European Commission’s proposal for the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028–2034 introduces far-reaching changes to the way EU funds will be structured and delivered. With a proposed budget of around € 2 trillion, a new 35 % climate and environment spending target, the consolidation of programmes and the introduction of National and Regional Partnership Plans, the proposal will strongly shape Europe’s ability to meet its climate, biodiversity and environmental objectives.
At the event held at the Haus der EU, policymakers, experts and civil society representatives discussed both the opportunities and risks of the proposed budget architecture. While the Commission emphasized simplification, result orientation and more efficient access to EU funding, environmental organisations highlighted the need for strong safeguards: climate and nature spending must remain clearly ringfenced, the Do No Significant Harm principle must be applied consistently, and environmental funding must lead to measurable improvements rather than merely symbolic commitments.
A central concern was the future of the LIFE programme, which has played a crucial role in supporting biodiversity, climate and cross-border environmental projects across Europe. Several speakers warned that weakening LIFE or absorbing it into broader funding structures could reduce visibility, expertise and dedicated support for nature protection. As negotiations continue, civil society actors stressed that the next MFF must secure ambitious, reliable and accessible funding for climate, biodiversity and environmental action across all Member States and regions.
Download presentations (until 21.07.2026)
https://team.ikt-portal.at/index.php/s/g77E6JYr75j2Edp
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