Brussels: Next year’s EU budget has been officially signed into law by European Parliament President Roberta Metsola, marking a significant step in reinforcing key EU programmes and addressing current challenges. This budget includes an additional £230 million aimed at enhancing people’s lives, boosting competitiveness, and tackling pressing issues such as health, humanitarian aid, border management, and climate action. The total budget for 2025 is set at £199.4 billion in commitments, with payments amounting to £155.21 billion, representing a 6% increase from the previous year.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the 2025 budget was reached following a deal with member states on November 16, ensuring an ambitious financial plan for the upcoming year. This is the first annual budget following the revision of the EU’s long-term financial framework, which occurred in February 2024. During the revision, the Parliament secured substantial increases for critical priorities, including support for Ukraine and the fina
ncing of the European Recovery Instrument’s repayment costs.
Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have successfully negotiated additional funding beyond the Commission’s initial draft proposal. The 2025 budget includes £230.7 million for initiatives in research, health, education, young farmers, crisis response, climate action, and military mobility, among others. Additionally, the budget benefits from significant increases sourced from previous savings, including £422 million for Erasmus+ and £20 million for Horizon Europe.
The budget adoption saw 418 votes in favor, 185 against, and 67 abstentions, with the Council endorsing the deal on November 25. Johan Van Overtveldt, Chair of the Committee on Budgets, emphasized that the budget addresses urgent challenges like Russian aggression, migration pressures, and natural disasters, ensuring the EU can respond effectively. Victor Negrescu, general rapporteur for the EU budget 2025, highlighted the budget’s capability to support European needs while sustain
ing post-pandemic recovery efforts.
Niclas Herbst, rapporteur for other sections, described the budget as a forward-looking achievement, defending Parliament’s key priorities, including enhancing cybersecurity and advancing artificial intelligence. The EU budget, serving 27 countries and a population of 450 million, primarily focuses on investment to generate growth and opportunities across the Union.