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This policy note explains how the European Commission's proposal for the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028-2034 responds to EU enlargement, a topic that is again high on the agenda after a decade of stagnation and in light of the full-blown Russian invasion of Ukraine.
With the EU membership applications of Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia, and the growing realisation that the stability of the Western Balkans could be at risk if the EU does not demonstrate its genuine commitment to enlargement, MFF 2028-2034 marks an important turning point. For the first time, a proposal for a European MFF explicitly takes into account the pressure that the inclusion of countries with weaker economies, unfinished governance reforms and urgent reconstruction needs will put on the EU's long-term budget.
This policy paper addresses three key questions:
Which funds are specifically intended for EU enlargement?
Are these resources sufficient to meet the challenges?
Does the proposal adequately prepare the EU to absorb new member states?
The note is part of the Friends of the Western Balkans (FoWB) project, organised by FEPS in collaboration with the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Dialogue Southeast Europe, Karl Renner Institut, Kalevi Sorsa Foundation, Fondation Jean-Jaurès, Foundation Max van der Stoel, Društvo Progresiva and Olof Palme International Center.
The project provides a platform for exchange between members of the European Parliament, members of national parliaments from the social democratic family, and academics, activists and analysts. The aim is to increase mutual understanding, discuss the future of the European Union and lay the groundwork for future accession of new member states.
Read it below!
