We call for EU to show solidarity with next budget

On the occasion of Europe Day, 9 May, Caritas Europa calls on EU leaders to agree well before the end of 2020 on an adequate 2021-2027 budget. Solidarity is now more urgent than ever to keep fighting poverty in Europe and worldwide, particularly given the devastating effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.

We urge EU Member States to unite and put common interests ahead of national interests to come to an agreement soon on the new Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), the next 7-year EU budget. Millions of EU residents, and neighbouring and developing countries benefit from EU funding, and all of that is at risk if no agreement is reached in due time. In the meantime, a contingency plan will be necessary to extend the current financial framework by one year in order to prevent gaps in funding programmes.

This is the hour of truth for the European Union, a time to show its citizens the value and power of this Union’.

Maria Nyman, Caritas Europa Secretary General

Caritas Europa asks in particular to strengthen the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) and to ensure adequate funding for the Child Guarantee, in order for them both to be effective in fighting poverty and social exclusion.

The declaration presented by the French foreign minister, Robert Schuman, 70 years ago on May 9, may now be more pertinent that ever: “Europe will not be made all at once, or according to a single plan. It will be built through concrete achievements which first create a de facto solidarity.”

Today, European countries are facing global challenges affecting their populations without distinction, evident in the light of the Covid-19 health and economic crises. These clearly show that European cooperation is essential and that no country can address such challenges on its own. Now, just as 70 years ago, European solidarity is crucial.