A future-proof, long-term EU budget must defend rule of law and respond to Europe’s changing security landscape

The Committee on Budgets of the European Parliament today adopted its vision for the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), ahead of the legislative proposal that the European Commission is due to present in July. Renew Europe seeks a resilient, values-driven EU budget capable of addressing both internal and external challenges. At the heart of Renew Europe’s position is a clear demand: the next MFF must defend the rule of law and respond decisively to Europe’s evolving security environment. We secured stronger language in the report on strategic autonomy, investment and competitiveness, the green and energy transitions, security and defence, humanitarian aid and external action, the rule of law and the EPPO, gender and climate mainstreaming, crisis response, and new own resources. In today’s volatile geopolitical climate, Renew Europe successfully pushed for a clear call to advance a European Defence Union, in close coordination with NATO and with respect for Member States’ neutrality. The next MFF must provide a comprehensive financial framework for EU defence capabilities, ensuring that Europe can act strategically and independently when needed. Equally essential is the budget’s role in upholding the rule of law and EU values. Renew Europe welcomed the Commission’s commitment to strengthen the connection between the annual rule of law report and access to Union funds, starting in 2025. We call for a robust rule of law toolbox applying across the entire EU budget,...