Most EU countries support major cuts to staffing costs in negotiations over the 2028–2034 EU budget

Most European Union member states support significantly reducing the bloc’s staffing and operating costs in an effort to limit the next multiannual budget for 2028–2034. The position is set out in a document drafted by the Irish presidency of the Council of the EU and seen by POLITICO.

Member states have not yet reached agreement on the size of the budget. The European Commission has proposed a Multiannual Financial Framework worth nearly €2 trillion, which would finance priorities such as competitiveness, security and defence. Germany and other countries are calling for cuts of several hundred billion euros compared with the proposal.

In this context, administrative costs, including officials’ salaries and spending on buildings, are seen as the main targets for savings. The European Commission has proposed hiring an additional 2,500 officials, while nine countries, led by Austria, oppose the plan. Administrative costs are expected to reach €118 billion, approximately 6% of the total budget.

By contrast, most capitals reject cuts to agriculture and funds for less-developed regions. Ireland is also considering reducing the budget’s overall size, amid opposition to higher national contributions and the introduction of new EU-level tariffs.

The Irish presidency wants to secure a political agreement by the end of 2026 so that the legislation can be adopted in 2027 and the new budget can enter into force on 1 January 2028. Athens will consult the ambassadors of the member states to identify areas where cuts could be made.