Arnoldas ABRAMAVIČIUS (LT/EPP), rapporteur of the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) on Union Support for Asylum, Migration and Integration Management 2028–2034, held an exchange of views with the European Commission in CIVEX on the future EU funding framework and its implications for local and regional authorities. The discussion focused on how the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) can better support municipalities and regions in implementing the Pact on Migration and Asylum, ensuring that EU objectives translate into real capacity on the ground – from reception and housing to education, health and labour market integration.
Arnoldas ABRAMAVIČIUS underlined that EU migration policy can only succeed if local and regional authorities are properly involved in planning and implementation, and if funding remains predictable and accessible for those delivering services directly to people. “For LRAs, this proposal determines not only what is funded but how reception, integration and returns are supported on the ground.”
During the exchange, the rapporteur welcomed the Commission’s overall objectives for the next programming period, including strengthening the Common European Asylum System, promoting integration, ensuring effective and dignified returns, and reinforcing solidarity among Member States. At the same time, he stressed the need to protect the partnership principle so that the new governance model does not lead to centralised decision-making that overlooks local realities.
The rapporteur also raised the need for targeted support to border regions facing geopolitical pressure, including the instrumentalisation and weaponisation of migrants, while ensuring that security and migration instruments reinforce each other rather than compete.
Background
In July 2025, the European Commission presented its proposal for the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028–2034, a budget of nearly EUR 2 trillion. Under this proposal, funding for migration and asylum management is around €12 billion, within a wider €81 billion envelope for home affairs. A significant share is earmarked for border management and internal security, raising concerns that resources may not sufficiently reach the cities and regions responsible for reception and integration services.
The Commission proposal integrates asylum, migration and integration policies into a broader single framework implemented through National and Regional Partnership Plans (NRPPs). While this aims to simplify funding and increase flexibility, it currently does not provide strong safeguards to ensure structured involvement of local and regional authorities in the design, management, monitoring and evaluation of national plans.
The proposal also introduces an EU Facility (around €72 billion) to finance Union actions, innovative transnational projects and rapid responses to emerging challenges.
Public consultation
The rapporteur Arnoldas Abramavičius is organising a Stakeholders' Consultation on the CoR draft opinion on the Union Support for Asylum, Migration and Integration Management 2028 - 2034 on Tuesday, 17 February 2026| 15:00 - 16:30 CET | Online and In person. Registrations are possible here
Timeline
• 24 March 2026 – Adoption planned in CIVEX
• 1–2 July 2026 – Adoption planned in CoR Plenary
