The European Parliament has adopted its interim position on the EU’s Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2028–2034 during its April 2026 plenary session, setting out its priorities ahead of negotiations with the Council and Commission.

Parliament calls for a more ambitious overall EU budget (+10% increase compared to Commission’s proposal), arguing that the Commission’s proposal does not fully match the Union’s objectives and current challenges. It stresses that EU funding should remain focused on areas with clear European added value, while avoiding fragmentation and preserving strong common programmes.

A key priority is Erasmus+, which Parliament describes as central to skills development, mobility, and social cohesion. It proposes increasing the programme’s budget to €47.39 billion (current prices) and highlights its role in strengthening education, youth, and sport policies.

In parallel, discussions in the Committee on Budgets show growing support for allocating 5% of Erasmus+ funding to sport, reflecting its contribution to inclusion, health, and grassroots development. The position now moves into interinstitutional negotiations with Member States in the Council.