European Parliament faces budget delays amid new legislative session

The European Parliament is entering a new legislative session with a focus on the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2028–2034, climate protection, defense, security, and social policy. However, negotiations between the European Parliament and the Council face significant delays. Karlo Ressler, head of the Croatian EPP delegation, indicated that reaching an agreement by the end of this year is increasingly unrealistic due to political dynamics and upcoming elections in Italy, France, Spain, and Poland.

Delays in the budget process could complicate development plans for member states. For Croatia, an initial estimate suggested an allocation of approximately 16.8 billion euros from a proposed 2 trillion euro envelope. Key priorities discussed include enhancing European competitiveness, increasing energy independence, reducing regulation, and ensuring security through border protection and healthcare stability.

MEP Romana Jerković emphasized that competitiveness should be built on innovation and quality jobs rather than lower wages or deregulation, noting that a strong Europe must protect both its borders and the quality of life for its citizens.