The next MFF is more than a budgetary exercise. It is an opportunity for the voluntary sector to co-construct the Europe of tomorrow, based on its values, its grassroots actions, and its commitment to a fairer, more inclusive, and more sustainable society.
The European Union is working on defining its future Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), a strategic step that will guide all of its budgetary priorities from 2028. This project, of considerable scope, directly concerns civil society and in particular associative actors in France, whose role in the implementation of European policies on the ground is now essential.
Why is the CFP essential for field workers?
The MFF constitutes the budgetary basis for European action for a period of several years. It sets spending ceilings, stabilizes the broad outlines of Community investment, and determines the deployment of numerous programs, particularly in the areas of social cohesion, youth, the environment, and innovation.
For French associations, this framework determines access to systems such as Erasmus +, ESF +, Creative Europe, LIFE or, CERVThese programs support thousands of local initiatives each year.
A structured process, open to civil society
The preparation of the future MFF is based on a precise political and technical timetable, within which civil society is explicitly invited to express its views. Here are the main stages:
- February 11, 2025: Communication from the European Commission
Publication of the strategic document "The path to the next multiannual financial framework", setting out the first priorities and areas of focus. This roadmap lays the foundations for dialogue with Member States, the European Parliament and stakeholders. - From February 12 to May 6, 2025: Stakeholder consultation
Associations, communities, businesses, and citizens are invited to share their expectations. In France, numerous associative networks have contributed to concrete proposals around social innovation, inclusion, ecological transition, and access to funding. - March 2025: Positioning of the French authorities
The government has published a policy brief incorporating national priorities, drawing in particular on feedback from the voluntary sector. This brief focuses on cohesion, innovation, youth, and the green transition. - May 7, 2025: Resolution of the European Parliament
Parliament calls for a renewed, robust long-term budget adapted to a changing world (geopolitical crises, climate challenges, digital transformation, etc.). This resolution strengthens Parliament's legitimacy in the upcoming negotiations. - July 2025: Presentation of the draft CFP regulation
The European Commission will unveil the first legal and financial version of the new framework. This will officially open negotiations between European institutions and member states.
A strategic opportunity for French associations
The next generation of European programs cannot be designed without associations, which are at the forefront of relaying public policies, strengthening social cohesion, and responding to the concrete needs of the regions. Their participation in the consultation helped to bring forward several key messages:
- Simplifying access and management of funds
- Strengthening support for social innovation
- Inclusion of vulnerable groups
- Support for transitions (ecological, digital, territorial)
The French authorities have relayed these priorities to the Commission and other Member States. It is now crucial that associations remain mobilized and continue their commitment to this process.
