PES GAC Ministers: Progressives call for an ambitious and fair MFF and a future-proof EU agenda

Ministers and representatives from the Party of European Socialists (PES) met today ahead of the upcoming General Affairs Council (GAC) to discuss the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF 2028-2034), preparations for the December European Council, and key priorities shaping the EU's political agenda for 2026.

Opening the meeting, the PES GAC network underlined the need for an ambitious long-term EU budget capable of delivering on Europe's pressing priorities: driving the triple transition -green, digital and social- advancing the Green Deal and industrial decarbonisation, upholding the European Pillar of Social Rights, strengthening defense and security, and investing in innovation and resilience.

Participants stressed that the EU cannot do more with less, emphasising that Treaty-based policies cannot be diluted, while new pressing priorities must be addressed.

Concerns were raised about elements of the Commission's proposal, particularly the role of local and regional authorities and the implications of National and Regional Partnership Plans for cohesion, social and agricultural policy. Consideration should also be given to the administrative capacity of smaller Member States, in order to support effective and inclusive streamlining.

Fernando Sampedro Marcos, Secretary of State for the European Union of Spain and chair of the meeting, said:

"Europe is entering a decisive phase. We need a long-term budget that strengthens cohesion, boosts resilience, and ensures that no region and no citizen is left behind. Progressives are united in their demand for an ambitious MFF that delivers on our green, digital and social commitments and enhance Europe's strategic capacities in an increasingly complex world.

The recent modifications announced by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on National and Regional Partnership Plans, including a rural target and specifications on regional involvement, mark the beginning of a new phase in the negotiations. From here, we must work together to strengthen the proposal, advancing our priorities."

Ministers also started discussion on the preparation of the European Council taking place on 18-19 December.

Regarding the Commission Work Programme 2026, the PES underlined the important role of PES Commissioners and the S&D Group in ensuring that the EU agenda goes in the right direction. Flagship initiatives, including a European Affordable Housing Plan, a Quality Jobs Act, building on the soon-to-be-published Quality Jobs Roadmap, a stronger Child Guarantee, and the anti-poverty strategy, show the progressive family's commitment to delivering concrete improvements for citizens. The network also warned that vigilance is essential as conservative forces increasingly align with the far right, particularly on the Green Deal.

For the PES, protecting democracy is inseparable from promoting social rights, upholding the rule of law, and fostering a more cohesive Europe. Rule of law is at the very foundation of our Union, and as social democrats, it is our duty to stand up and ensure that fundamental rights are protected everywhere. We urge the Commission to ensure the protection of the rule of law and to remain actively engaged in safeguarding this fundamental value at the core of our democracy. The PES noted with appreciation the Democracy Shield, as an initiative long awaited and a longstanding demand of our political family.

The meeting was attended by:

• • Fernando Sampedro Marcos, Secretary of State for the European Union, Spain, Chair
• • Ian Borg, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Malta
• • Neva Grašič, State Secretary for European Affairs, International Law and Protection of Interests and Economic Diplomacy, Slovenia
• • Kata Tüttő, President of the European Committee of the Regions
• • Iñigo Echeverría-Torres Monasterio, Deputy Secretary General of the S&D Group
• • Yonnec Polet, Deputy Secretary General, PES