Negotiations on Global Europe, the EU’s main external funding instrument under the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), reveal growing disagreements over development priorities and funding. While the European Commission proposes EUR 200.3 billion, the Irish Council Presidency has suggested a 17.4% reduction, against the European Parliament committees’ proposal of EUR 225 billion. DevelopmentAid notes that the proposed increase is less substantial than it appears, given the consolidation of existing development, enlargement and humanitarian instruments and the effects of inflation. The new framework also prioritises geographical programmes, greater flexibility and private-sector partnerships, raising concerns over long-term development commitments and civil society funding. CONCORD warns that cuts could undermine the EU’s credibility and calls for Global Europe to receive at least 10% of the MFF. If reductions proceed, it urges that 80% of funding remain programmable and at least 15% of geographic allocations support civil society, including through direct access for local organisations. Read more here.
Source: DevelopmentAid