The missing middle: strengthening Member State accountability and regional inclusion in the next MFF
The European Commission’s 2028–2034 MFF proposal signals a major shift in EU budget governance. By consolidating programmes into new structures such as the European Competitiveness Fund and National and Regional Partnership Plans (NRPPs), it seeks a simpler, more flexible and strategic budget. NRPPs would merge cohesion, agricultural, fisheries and home affairs spending into national plans negotiated with the European Commission, with funding released upon meeting milestones. This performance-based model, echoing the the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), recentralises power and risks weakening regional involvement and democratic oversight. Whether the new MFF succeeds depends on designing governance that strengthens Member State accountability while preserving inclusiveness, transparency and effective local delivery.
Check out our web dossier An MFF fit for purpose Assessing Europe’s long-term budget.