The European Union has begun laying the groundwork for its next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for the period 2028-2034. With the European Commission’s recent Communication, the European Parliament’s ongoing work on an own-initiative report, and a stakeholder consultation, the path is set for the reshaping of the EU’s budgetary priorities and structures. 

European Commission kickstarts the post-2027 MFF process 

On 12 February, the European Commission published a Communication entitled “The Road to the Next Multiannual Financial Framework”, setting out the initial blueprint for post-2027 EU spending. Acknowledging new economic and geopolitical challenges, the Commission proposes: 

• Country-specific reform plans to tailor EU funding more precisely to national needs; 

• A European Competitiveness Fund to promote strategic investments; 

• Enhanced financing for external actions, maintaining the EU’s global influence; 

• A revised revenue system to guarantee stable and sustainable resources. 

This Communication serves as the starting point for discussions on how best to shape the Union’s financial allocations beyond 2027, ensuring that the future MFF aligns with emerging priorities.  

European Parliament’s own-initiative report to influence discussions on the Commission proposal 

Shortly after the Commission’s announcement, the European Parliament Committee on Budgets (BUDG) met on 19 February to discuss and present a draft own-initiative report for the next MFF. Answering to the Commission’s proposal, this report underscores the need for a budgetary framework that is simpler, more transparent, adequately resourced, sustainably financed, and responsive to unforeseen crises. All European Parliament Committees are invited to provide opinions to shape the report. The Committee on Culture and Education (CULT) highlighted the importance of sport in enhancing social cohesion, reducing inequalities, and encouraging healthier lifestyles. Additionally, the CULT Committee advocates for both grassroots and professional sports to receive increased support, particularly for individuals with physical or mental disabilities. The Committees can still shape their opinions before a consolidated draft is presented in plenary on 5 May. 

Commission-led consultation and Stakeholder Conferences 

Alongside these developments, the Commission has launched a 12-week public consultation to gather feedback from citizens and organisations concerning the future budgetary priorities. Although sport is not directly referenced in the title, some questions address it and can be seen as cross-cutting. The consultation remains one of the options for bringing sport into the negotiators' discussions and therefore the EOC EU Office will prepare a written contribution.  

Erasmus+ and European Solidarity Corps Conference 

On 18 February, a Stakeholder Conference in Brussels—organized by DG EAC—focused on the post-2027 programmes for Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps. Attendees included representatives from the sport, education, and youth sectors. 

Director-General Pia Ahrenkilde Hansen, Executive Vice-President Roxana Mînzatu, and Commissioner Glenn Micallef opened the event, emphasizing the importance of skills development, inclusion, green and digital transitions, and programme simplification. 

Parallel workshops explored topics such as mobility, volunteering, cooperation opportunities, and international partnerships. 

The day concluded with a plenary feedback session, offering suggestions for shaping an inclusive and impactful framework post-2027. The EOC EU Office attended the Conference to ensure the voice of the Olympic sport movement is being heard. 

Looking ahead 

With the Commission’s formal proposal for the next EU long-term budget scheduled for July 2025, all eyes are on how the EU will balance strategic investments, crisis responsiveness, and sustainability.  

The EOC EU Office will make sure to be present in all relevant discussion forums, including the ongoing public consultation, and to meet with key architects of the MFF to ensure a decent budget share for sport.  

Sport organisations will need to frame its advocacy narrative to the EU’s new political priorities, preparedness and competitiveness. This means emphasising its economic impact on GDP, the added value of its volunteer workforce, and its contribution to building resilient societies. The EOC EU Office will consult and involve its partners in the process.