Local and Regional Government's Final Call to EU institutions

A new approach to the definition of the EU budget: now is the time

The future of the EU budget stands at a pivotal moment. As the European Commission (EC) opens consultations on the post-2027 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), local and regional governments across Europe, represented by CEMR, are calling for a significant shift: an EU budget that is inclusive, decentralised, and truly responsive to the needs of cities, municipalities, and regions.

This requires that future national plans and investment priorities in each Member State are not imposed from the top-down but shaped through meaningful and compulsory consultations with local and regional governments, just as the Partnership Principle ensures in Cohesion Policy. Only in this way can EU investments be fit for purpose and truly serve the people it is intended to benefit.

CEMR’s newly released position paper on the post-2027 MFF sets out a clear vision for a reformed EU budget that strengthens multi-level governance and empowers local and regional governments as essential partners for an effective spending of the EU budget on the ground.

Read our Position Paper on MFF

Participate now in the EC's consultation (ends 7 May 2025)

5 ideas of CEMR’s position paper on the post-2027 EU budget

Empowering municipalities, cities and regions not only as implementers but also as planners – The Partnership Principle must be enforced.
Decentralising the Cohesion Policy – Strengthening the capacity of local and regional governments to manage EU funding to ensure that investments address real local needs and promote balanced territorial development.
Diversifying EU instruments as part of the ambitious policy agenda for cities – From shared management funds to increased direct funding, it would allow EU investment to reach local and regional authorities of all sizes, from all types of territories, both urban and rural.
Simplifying and easing EU funding mechanisms – This would reduce administrative burdens to local and regional governments and enable effective investment in sustainable solutions.
Enhancing synergies among EU funds – The next MFF must improve coordination between different EU funding instruments to maximise impact at the territorial level.

”The EU is more than its institutions and the 27 states - it belongs to its people, municipalities, cities, and regions. Decisions based solely on macroeconomic trends risk disconnecting it from citizens.
Gunn Marit Helgesen, CEMR President

Read CEMR position paper on the post-2027 EU budget

Take part of the EC's consultation now