Brussels, July 20, 2025 — The European Commission has unveiled its proposal for the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028–2034, a landmark document that sets the direction for EU financial allocations over the next seven-year period. This time, the Commission is proposing an unprecedented €2 trillion budget, nearly double the size of the previous framework.
A key highlight of the proposal is the strong emphasis on EU enlargement, which has been described not merely as a political goal but as a strategic investment in Europe’s stability and prosperity.
“Enlargement is a key priority. It’s not only a political aim, but a strategic investment. That’s why we are fully opening the ‘Global Europe’ instrument to candidate countries — not only for technical assistance, but also for reforms and concrete projects,” said Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.
The enlargement component of the budget is expected to receive substantially increased financial support, starting in 2028, in line with the accelerated progress of candidate countries. Should any new country join the EU during this budget cycle, the financial framework will be revised accordingly.
Although Kosovo remains the only country in the Western Balkans without official candidate status, the European Commission has confirmed that Pristina will still benefit from EU funds through targeted instruments designed for enlargement countries.
These funds aim to support democratic reforms, infrastructure, and socio-economic development, further integrating the Western Balkans into the European project.
