Net Contributors Rebel Against the EU Budget
Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, and the Scandinavian countries are demanding drastic cuts to the next multiannual EU budget. The six net contributors, which together provide around 40 percent of the contributions, are demanding a reduction of several hundred billion euros in the Commission's proposal.
The European Commission had targeted almost two trillion euros for the period 2028 to 2034. The rebelling states want savings in almost all areas, while allowing defense and research to grow. They reject new joint debt and additional staff in Brussels.
Since the financial framework requires unanimous approval, the net contributors have significant leverage. Without an agreement, there is a risk of time pressure before the start of the next budget period.
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