MFF discussions focus on Eastern flank security

António Costa concluded his Baltic tour on August 26, 2026, with renewed calls for the next EU budget to bolster the Union's Eastern flank. The tour, which included meetings with various capitals, aimed to gauge priorities for the upcoming Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) negotiations. Security funding, particularly for the Eastern flank, has emerged as a key priority for member states amid evolving geopolitical landscapes.

The focus on security is reflected in ongoing initiatives and projects designed to enhance EU capabilities. For instance, the BorderForce project, with a start date of September 1, 2024, is developing a flexible system for automated border surveillance. This initiative responds to evolving threats by enhancing real-time surveillance capabilities and integrating versatile surveillance towers with anti-drone features, crucial for adapting to uncertain times and unforeseen events. Such projects directly address the need for increased situational awareness and robust security measures at external borders.

Furthermore, the EUFF project, which began on October 1, 2024, aims to evaluate policies and security measures related to foreign fighters. Its objective includes assessing interventions for prevention and reintegration, especially considering the ongoing Ukraine conflict's potential impact on the EU. This project highlights persistent security risks, including radicalisation, criminal involvement, and weapons trafficking, underscoring the broader international security challenges that member states face.

The discussions surrounding the MFF reflect a collective understanding of the need to allocate substantial resources to these critical areas. The emphasis on strengthening the Eastern flank through dedicated funding within the next EU budget signals a strategic shift towards proactive security measures across the Union.

What this means: The next Multiannual Financial Framework is likely to see significant allocations towards security, particularly for border surveillance and counter-terrorism initiatives, as member states align on bolstering the EU's Eastern flank.