Advancing social policy in the 2028–2034 EU Multiannual Financial Framework
The European Commission’s proposal for the 2028–2034 MFF arrives as the EU confronts interlinked environmental, demographic, social, security and economic pressures. Poverty, inequality and the green and digital transitions demand stronger EU-level social investment, yet the proposal risks weakening the Union’s social dimension. Social spending is bundled into new National and Regional Partnership Plans, with the European Social Fund losing a distinct budget line, while poverty and inclusion guarantees are replaced by flexible guidance. A 14% social earmark is proposed, but dedicated funding remains limited. Key concerns for the negotiations include insufficient resources, weaker roles for local actors and competing objectives within the budget.
Check out our web dossier An MFF fit for purpose Assessing Europe’s long-term budget.