Local Alliance Joint Position: The next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) will be negotiated in a context of broadened priorities but stretched resources. New imperatives such as energy security, competitiveness and strategic autonomy join long-standing goals like social cohesion and decarbonisation. As Europe navigates these imperatives, it is clear that no single level of government can succeed alone.
Local and regional governments are on the front lines of implementation – from climate adaptation projects and energy transition to social infrastructure and innovation hubs – and thus must be recognised as key partners in EU budget delivery. Therefore, for the next MFF to deliver its European value, multilevel governance must become a standard operating principle across all EU funding programmes. Multilevel governance refers to coordinated action by the EU, national, regional, intermediate (such as provinces) and
local governments, each operating within their competences but working together toward common goals.