In July, the European Commission presented its ambitious proposal for a new Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) worth nearly €2 trillion, setting out funding priorities for the coming years. EURASHE welcomes this proposal, which comes at a critical moment for the European Union and its citizens.
A key element of the proposal is the significant increase in funding for the Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe programmes, with budgets expected to almost double. This is a strong signal of the EU’s commitment to supporting education, research, and innovation — areas that are crucial for Europe’s competitiveness and sustainable growth.
As the European Parliament and the Council begin their negotiations, EURASHE calls for a timely adoption of the MFF regulations, ensuring predictability for stakeholders across sectors. While adjustments to budgetary headings may occur, we urge co-legislators to maximise investment in education, research, and innovation, which are essential to unlock Europe’s potential.
The new MFF must also harness resources across regions, supporting collaboration between institutions, businesses, and communities to ensure competitiveness goes hand in hand with cohesion. Pan-European cooperation in education and research helps connect less and more developed regions, unlock pockets of excellence, and strengthen European unity. Without this inclusive, pan-European approach, EU funding risks being perceived as elitist and inaccessible — potentially fuelling divisions and populism. By contrast, strategic investment in education, innovation, and regional cooperation can be a powerful tool for building a more competitive and cohesive Europe.
