The guidelines for the EU budget 2026 were adopted by the plenary of the European Parliament with the support of the S&D Group. The Socialists and Democrats consider this result as a demonstration of what the pro-EU forces can deliver when they work together for the common good. 

The guidelines are a signal from the Parliament to the citizens and institutions on what it would like to see as budgetary priorities in the proposal of the European Commission for next year’s annual budget, expected later this year.

The S&D Group worked hard to ensure that people are the focus of the next budget, their wellbeing, prosperity and security. 

Nils Ušakov: S&D negotiator on the matter in the European Parliament’s committee on budgets 

“Europeans face major challenges, making a reliable, robust, flexible, and people-centred EU budget more crucial than ever. As Socialists and Democrats, we firmly believe that each annual budget plays a key role in implementing the Union’s policies and addressing people’s needs—and the EU budget for 2026 is no exception.

“Our responsibility is to ensure that EU funds are directed where they have the greatest impact, proving that the EU delivers tangible benefits for people and businesses alike. Today’s result also obliges us to keep this constructive trajectory for the negotiations to come next autumn, when we will implement the guidelines into budgetary priorities.

“We reiterate our call on the European Commission to propose a budget for next year that prioritises investment in education, healthcare, social protection and fairness, the green and digital transition, and defence. As the S&D Group, we are committed to shaping an EU budget for 2026 that truly supports those facing financial hardship due to inflation, those struggling with unaffordable housing, young people seeking opportunities to study, and researchers working towards a better future.

“We stand with refugees forced from their homes by multiple crises, and with frontline states like the Baltic countries whose economies have been hit hard by the war in Ukraine. Next year’s budget must strike a fair and just balance across the Union, ensuring equality and solidarity. Only in this way can we build a resilient, social, and future-ready Europe.”