EU enlargement is a key priority for the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC). The Committee considers enlargement to be a geostrategic investment in a strong, stable, secure and united Europe, grounded in shared democratic values.
On 16 July 2025, the European Commission presented its proposal for a Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) of almost EUR 2 trillion (around 1.26% of the EU’s gross national income on average) for 2028-34, intended to support a more independent, prosperous, secure and resilient Europe. The proposed MFF would increase budget flexibility to allow a faster response to unexpected developments and emerging priorities. It would also simplify and better harmonise funding programmes so citizens and businesses can more easily identify and access opportunities. National and Regional Partnership Plans would be used to better reflect local needs by linking investment with reforms and strengthening cohesion outcomes. The framework aims to boost competitiveness by supporting supply-chain security, scaling innovation, and sustaining leadership in clean and smart technologies. It also proposes a balanced package of new own resources to help ensure sufficient revenue while limiting pressure on national public finances.
The next Multiannual Financial Framework: perspectives from national Economic and Social Councils
The European Public Diplomacy Days (EPDW) will be held from 30 September to 2 October 2026 and will bring together various different EU institutions working on public diplomacy and international people-to-people initiatives, with a view to sharing best practice and exchanging ideas. Besides the EU institutions, there will be contributions from civil society, networks of regions and cities, cultural projects, academics and other practitioners from across the world.
