This document provides civil society’s position and proposals on the outline for the 2028-2034 Multiannual Financial Framework’s (MFF) negotiations. It draws on the recommendations included in the report “The Future of Europe is Ours: A View from Civil Society Recommendations from Civil Society Organisations for the Conference on the Future of Europe” (CSCoFoE) and the “Civil Society State of the Union 2023” (CSSOTEU), as well as civil society’s analysis of the current programmes and the needs for the next seven-year period. The structure of the document follows the headings of the current MFF.

Civil Society calls for an open and rights-based approach in the development of the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), ensuring robust support for the EU’s fundamental pillars. These include contributing to sustainable development, fostering social and economic cohesion, promoting culture and education, investing in research and innovation, protecting patients and consumers, strengthening international cooperation and humanitarian aid, and addressing emerging priorities such as climate change, cyber security, the rule of law, fundamental rights, and democracy.

As part of civil society, the Young European Federalists (JEF) contribute to this call, emphasizing that the next MFF must prioritize strengthening the EU’s role as a global leader in defending democracy and human rights. Civil society, including JEF, highlights the importance of an MFF that equips the EU to respond to current and future challenges while reinforcing its internal cohesion. With increasing geopolitical tensions and a changing international landscape, it is more vital than ever that the EU remains united and prepared to address issues such as security, climate change, and the protection of fundamental freedoms.

Furthermore, civil society, including JEF, underscores the need for the next MFF to reflect the EU’s commitment to global solidarity and sustainable development, particularly in the face of diminishing support from key international partners, such as the United States, on issues ranging from defence to human rights and democracy. In this context, it is essential that the MFF ensures adequate resources for strengthening EU internal capacities and supporting international cooperation to safeguard peace, democracy, and human rights worldwide.

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