The European budget, or as officially known the Multiannual Financial Framework, has proven its value to citizens, funding projects and activities that support the social and economic development of European regions, aid farmers and rural areas, protect the environment, combat climate change, promote the digital transition, and drive research and innovation. In recent years, it has also become a lifeline during crises – addressing the COVID-19 pandemic, energy independence, and the Russian agression against Ukraine.
As the EU moves forward, profound changes are reshaping European society, security, and the economy. The EU budget must continue improving the quality of life and livelihoods for citizens, farmers, researchers, businesses, and regions throughout Europe and beyond. Reflecting this, the European Commission launched on 28 March 2025 a series of discussions with citizens via the European Citizens’ Panel, inviting their input on the EU policymaking process.
The first in-person session took place from 28-30 March in Brussels, where 150 participants from all 27 EU Member States shared recommendations to aid the Commission’s work on the EU budget. Simultaneously, the Citizens’ Engagement Platform – an online discussion forum – opened for public contributions to gather broader views on the long-term EU budget. The platform has so far received more than 150 citizen contributions on a range of topics, including the EU’s regional policy to strengthen solidarity and cohesion.
The European Citizens’ Panel on the new budget will include two additional rounds. The second session, held online from 25-27 April, will focus on thematic idea development and drafting initial recommendations. The third and final session in Brussels, from 16-18 May, will conclude with debates, refined recommendations for the European Commission, and an explanation of next steps, including the policy impact.
The Commission plans to present its first proposal for this new budget in July 2025, eventually replacing the current long-term budget (2021-2027). The Panel’s outcomes will provide key recommendations to inform the Commission’s future work on the EU budget.
Participating in the EU-wide discussion on the new budget through the European Citizens’ Panel and the Citizens’ Engagement Platform offers a unique chance to help shape a stronger Europe that reflects the shared ambitions of its citizens.
More information on how to participate in discussion on the EU budget can be found here.
