The European Commission’s proposal for the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) sets out a budget of nearly €2 trillion, designed to be more flexible, performance-driven, and territorially responsive. Cohesion policy, territorial cooperation, and macro-regional strategies are placed at the heart of this framework, underlining the EU’s ambition to build a more inclusive and resilient Union.
Cohesion Policy and Partnership Plans
Cohesion policy remains the backbone of long-term EU investment, with around €450 billion allocated for cohesion, rural development, and fisheries. Delivery will take place through 27 National and Regional Partnership Plans (NRPPs) — strategic frameworks that align EU support with country- and region-specific challenges.
Developed jointly with the Commission, regional authorities, communities, and civil society, NRPPs merge multiple funding streams into one national plan. This simplifies access, improves coordination with policies such as the CAP and ESF+, and ensures stronger territorial focus.
Key features include:
- Targeted, place-based investments and reforms
- Prioritisation of convergence and reduced regional disparities
- At least €218 billion directed to less developed regions, with differentiated co-financing rates
- 14% of national allocations earmarked for social inclusion, poverty reduction, and skills development
For civil society organisations (CSOs), NRPPs could provide structured entry points to influence priorities, contribute to consultations, and access funding aligned with local needs.
Systemic simplification
A defining change in the new MFF is the streamlining of EU financing:
- A reduction from 52 to 16 funding programmes
- Harmonised rules across instruments
- A single online portal for all EU funding opportunities
This simplification reduces administrative burden and enhances transparency — a tangible gain for CSOs often constrained by complexity.
Interreg in the new framework
Interreg continues with a dedicated budget of €10 billion, marking a modest increase. Fully integrated into the NRPP framework, Interreg will operate through single plans that align national strategies with transnational cooperation. This integration strengthens synergies and makes participation easier for CSOs working on cross-border initiatives.
Macro-regional strategies (MRS)
While MRS retain no standalone budget, their priorities are embedded in Interreg and other EU instruments. The 2028–2034 MFF strengthens their role by:
- Aligning objectives with NRPPs and Interreg
- Supporting flagship projects via transnational funding
- Encouraging stakeholder involvement in thematic working groups
For civil society, MRS provide platforms to scale up local initiatives, shape regional agendas, and secure resources for addressing shared challenges such as climate resilience, youth employment, and sustainable tourism.
Looking ahead: negotiations and civil society’s role
It is important to underline that this is only the Commission’s first proposal. Intense negotiations among Member States and EU institutions will unfold over the next two years before the 2028–2034 budget is adopted. Civil society organisations are ready to contribute to this process by sharing evidence from the ground, proposing concrete solutions, and advocating for stronger participatory mechanisms. Their involvement will be vital to ensure that the final MFF not only reflects political compromise but also addresses the realities of communities across Europe.
Key takeaways for civil society
The new budget cycle reshapes opportunities for civic actors:
- Simplified access: fewer programmes, harmonised rules
- Strategic frameworks: NRPPs and Interreg plans offer clear points of engagement
- Performance orientation: greater focus on measurable outcomes and reforms
- Social inclusion: significant allocations for equality, poverty reduction, and skills
- Safeguards: continued enforcement of rule-of-law conditionality
Conclusion
The 2028–2034 MFF marks a strategic shift toward flexibility, impact, and territorial relevance. Cohesion policy, streamlined Interreg structures, and embedded macro-regional strategies create a more coherent funding environment. For civil society, this opens opportunities — but also raises challenges. While CSOs are, in principle, included in the design of NRPPs, the proposal lacks a guaranteed participation mechanism, leaving involvement uneven across Member States.
To make the most of this framework, civil society must proactively engage, monitor consultations, and push for structured dialogue. Ensuring that voices from the ground shape EU investment priorities will be decisive for building a fairer and more resilient Europe.
