Ecologists: EU Budget Proposal Falls Short on Climate Protection Investments

Prague – This week, the European Commission unveiled its proposal for the multiannual financial framework of the European Union post-2027. Environmental organizations have criticized the proposal for failing to adequately address the urgent need for investments in climate protection, energy independence, and socially equitable transformation. The Center for Transport and Energy (CDE) and Hnutí Duha issued a joint statement today, expressing concerns that the proposal could lead to inefficient and poorly targeted use of public funds, despite the unprecedented budget of two trillion euros (approximately 50 trillion crowns).

The organizations indicate that the proposal consolidates several existing funds, including the Cohesion Fund, the Just Transition Fund, and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development, into a single instrument. They contend that this consolidation may hinder the ability to provide targeted support for structurally weaker regions that face significant challenges in transitioning to clean energy sources. Additionally, they criticize the proposed incorporation of the LIFE program, which focuses on nature conservation, into broader funding categories. They also note that the budget plan fails to set specific targets for biodiversity financing.

CDE and Hnutí Duha argue that the current proposal still permits the allocation of public funds to fossil fuels, perpetuating Europe’s reliance on energy imports from countries like Russia and the United States, thus undermining climate policy objectives.

Furthermore, environmental organizations highlight that during budget negotiations, the interests of governmental institutions, businesses, and the financial sector dominate the discussions. “This is occurring despite the European Code of Conduct for Partnership Cooperation, which emphasizes a balanced participation of civil society representatives in the development of European legislation,” stated EU funds expert from the Center for Transport and Energy, Jana Pospíšilová Maussen.

According to environmental advocates, the Commission’s proposal lacks the necessary ambition and risks resulting in inefficient or poorly targeted public fund usage. The budget is now in the hands of the European Parliament and the member states’ governments, who have the chance to push for a more responsible, sustainable, and equitable budget framework. (July 17)