The European Commission, European Parliament, and the Council are gearing up to negotiate the 2025 budget in November, with discussions set to become heated next week as MEPs vote in Strasbourg on the EU 2025 budget. The Council had proposed significant cuts to the Erasmus+ program, including reducing it by nearly €295 million annually, in order to prioritize issues such as Russia’s war in Ukraine, the migration crisis, and post-pandemic recovery. However, the European Parliament and European Commission are expected to push back against these cuts before the three institutions come together to finalize the budget in November.
One of the key points of contention in the budget negotiations is the proposed cuts to the Erasmus+ program, which plays a crucial role in promoting education, training, and youth activities across Europe. The Council’s decision to reduce funding for Erasmus+ by almost €295 million per year has sparked concern among MEPs and other stakeholders, who fear that these cuts could jeopardize the future of the program. The European Parliament and European Commission are likely to resist these cuts and advocate for maintaining or even increasing funding for Erasmus+ in order to support the program’s important work in fostering education and exchange among young people in Europe.
In addition to the budget negotiations, Radio Schuman recently discussed the issue with French MEP Emma Rafowicz (S&D) to shed light on key debates on the Brussels agenda and explore how EU member states select their candidates for the Commission. These discussions are crucial as they help to inform and shape the decisions made by the European institutions on a range of important issues that impact the future of the EU. Furthermore, the conversations on Radio Schuman also highlight the diverse perspectives and voices that contribute to the EU’s decision-making process, providing valuable insights into the complexities of European politics and policymaking.
Meanwhile, as discussions continue in Brussels, Copenhagen is making strides towards becoming more resilient to floods, showcasing how cities across Europe are taking proactive measures to address the challenges posed by climate change. By investing in initiatives to mitigate the impact of flooding and enhance urban resilience, Copenhagen is setting an example for other cities to follow in adapting to the changing climate and protecting their communities. These efforts demonstrate the importance of proactive planning and investment in sustainable infrastructure to build more resilient and sustainable cities in the face of growing environmental challenges.
Overall, the upcoming negotiations on the EU 2025 budget and discussions on key issues such as the future of the Erasmus+ program and the selection of candidates for the European Commission are pivotal moments in shaping the future of the EU. As stakeholders and decision-makers come together to debate and negotiate on these issues, it is important to consider the diverse perspectives and voices that contribute to the process in order to reach balanced and informed decisions. By engaging in open and transparent discussions, the European institutions can work towards achieving the common goals and priorities that will drive the EU forward in the years to come.
