The reform of the multiannual financial framework (MFF) is meant to unlock hundreds of billions of euros for new priorities. Defense spending will carry significantly more weight. Strengthening European industry and competitiveness is also among the core goals. The Parliament accepts that this comes at the expense of existing programs, even though this shift raises concerns.
An important element of the reform is the consolidation of various funds. This should lead to greater efficiency and allow quicker responses to new challenges. Critics point out that this approach comes at the cost of transparency and the assurance that funds retain their original purpose.
Additionally, the national share in spending decisions is increased. EU countries will have greater say over the use of EU subsidies within the consolidated funds. Supporters call this a practical way to acknowledge local circumstances. Opponents fear that this weakens the coherence of European policy.
For cohesion policy, the reform means a shift in focus. Traditionally, this fund was used to strengthen disadvantaged regions. Now it will be deployed more broadly, also for Defense and economic security. There is concern that this sidelines the original goal of solidarity between regions.
Regional representatives voiced sharp criticism. They warned that the reform amounts to an erosion of cohesion and a return to national logic. Some believe the new approach risks widening the gap between prosperous and lagging areas rather than narrowing it.
Tensions arose ahead of the decision over civic initiatives regarding regional autonomy. A proposal to give national regions more recognition was not adopted by the Commission.
The green sector also reacted critically. The wind energy sector fears being sidelined because the reform does not provide a specific fund for renewable energy. This raises the risk that Defense and industry will be prioritized at the expense of climate and energy goals, it was said.
Despite these oppositions, a large majority of the Parliament voted in favor. This gives the Commission the space to rewrite the long-term budget. The political signal is that the EU is adapting to changing times, in which Defense, industry, and national policy space take precedence, even if this involves a loss of traditional European cohesion.