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EU budget priorities for 2026: Stronger defence, energy independence and faster crisis response

02. 04. 2025 - The European Union faces growing geopolitical threats, economic challenges and climate crises. In response to the challenges, MEPs have therefore set out the main priorities for the 2026 budget: strengthening defence, energy security, sustainable industry and flexibility in dealing with crises.
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MEPs agreed today on the priorities for the European budget for the coming year. The intention is primarily to fortify Europe against unexpected external and internal threats, to strengthen its stability and maintain its competitiveness.

The war in Ukraine and growing security threats have led MEPs to push for more investment in defence and military capabilities, saying the EU must reduce its dependence on supplies from third countries and strengthen its own defence industry. Critical infrastructure protection and cybersecurity are also key.

Another objective is to give more support to the European economy, in particular to its own strategic sectors such as green technologies, digital innovation and securing key raw materials. The aim is to reduce dependence on China and other non-European suppliers. Parliament stressed that the budget should support the transition to a sustainable economy and help Europe to remain competitive in the global market.

Lastly, MEPs point out that the EU needs more flexible financial mechanisms to respond quickly to unforeseen events, be they natural disasters, economic shocks or humanitarian crises. Parliament is therefore advocating greater budget flexibility to allow funds to be moved to where they are most needed without jeopardising long-term programmes and investments.