Brussels, Belgium – With the European Commission’s proposal for the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) due on 16 July 2025, the European Parliament’s Civil Society Outreach Unit hosted a crucial and timely event titled “Invest in What Matters – Exchange of Views”. This dialogue-oriented session brought together Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), institutional stakeholders, and civil society organizations to reflect on budgetary priorities and prepare for the next phase of negotiations.
A Moment for Civil Society to Be Heard The event followed shortly after the Parliament adopted its own-initiative report on the MFF. It included interventions from:
Vice-President Katarina Barley
Siegfried Muresan (EPP), co-rapporteur
Carla Tavares (S&D), co-rapporteur
Philipp Schulmeister, Director for Campaigns, European Parliament
Each emphasized the strategic importance of the EU’s long-term budget, not just in terms of figures but in shaping the Union’s policy direction—from climate action and competitiveness to agriculture, health, and social inclusion.
“The MFF is the EU’s primary investment tool. It empowers us to act on our shared values, build resilience, and respond to citizens’ needs,” said MEP Siegfried Muresan. “And whoever receives EU funds must respect EU values.”
Investing in What Matters: From Defense to Culture While the Commission’s expected focus areas include defense, security, and the green transition, many civil society voices—including NGOs—are advocating for greater emphasis on education, health, youth, and the arts.
In a Facebook post following the event, Dr. Manel Msalmi, President of the European Association for the Defense of Minorities, highlighted the debate’s inclusive nature:
“I had the privilege to participate in the discussion with MEPs Siegfried Muresan and Carla Tavares to talk about EU budget priorities. While security and green economy are high on the Commission’s list, civil society urges more investment in youth, health, education, and culture.”
Msalmi, a tireless human rights defender working across MENA, South Asia, and Europe, added:
“NGOs must align with European values to ensure funding continues to support inclusive, democratic, and sustainable development.”
Campaigns that Resonate: Realities We Can’t Ignore Also highlighted during the event were the Parliament’s public engagement efforts through campaigns like “Invest in What Matters” and “Realities We Can’t Ignore”. These initiatives use multiplier-based communication to connect with broader audiences, ensuring that discussions on budget priorities reach well beyond Brussels.
Such an approach was praised by civil society attendees as a strategic and inclusive outreach model, mirroring how NGOs themselves engage diverse communities.
Looking Ahead With the MFF proposal imminent, this exchange of views helped underline key expectations and challenges—not just for policymakers, but for the entire European community. Civil society leaders reaffirmed their commitment to shaping a budget that prioritizes human development, social cohesion, and European unity.
Special thanks were extended to the European Parliament’s Civil Society Outreach Unit and Circle of Sustainable Europe (CoSE) for facilitating this impactful dialogue.
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