The European Federation of Education Employers (EFEE) is pleased to announce that our official reaction to the European Commission’s recently unveiled proposal for the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028–2034 is now available.
A Welcome Step for Education and Social Investment
We welcome the Commission’s renewed focus on strengthening Europe’s social model and boosting industrial competitiveness through a more flexible and harmonised €2 trillion budget. EFEE supports the continued prioritisation of human capital and education as foundational pillars of this vision.
EFEE acknowledges the sustained support for the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+), which remains vital for social dialogue in education. However, concerns remain regarding the fund’s new management structure via National and Regional Partnership Plans. We advocate for a decentralised governance approach to enhance impact at local and regional levels.
Erasmus+ Expansion
EFEE welcomes the proposed increase in Erasmus+ funding to €40.8 billion. While the expanded budget is encouraging, clarity is needed on the programme’s priorities, particularly regarding capacity building and policy reform in education. EFEE calls for sectoral social partners to play a central role in shaping the programme’s direction and implementation.
AgoraEU
We commend the Commission’s introduction of the €8.6 billion AgoraEU programme, which consolidates efforts to promote artistic freedom, media pluralism, democratic participation, and fundamental rights. Education and culture are vital in shaping democratic values and societal awareness.
The European Competitiveness Fund and Education’s Strategic Role
The proposed €409 billion European Competitiveness Fund (ECF), including €175 billion for Horizon Europe, highlights the need for closer cooperation between education institutions and industry. EFEE stresses that social partners in education must be fully involved in the fund’s design and execution to ensure meaningful and strategic outcomes.
EFEE reiterates the importance of accessible, well-resourced education and skills development throughout the entire MFF structure. We stand ready to work with the European Commission and other stakeholders to ensure that education and human capital remain at the core of Europe’s future investments.
Read the full reaction here:
EFEE MFF 2028 - 2034 REACTION