Refinement, Not Overhaul: External action in the next MFF

The next EU long-term budget must put nature at the heart of international action

A group of 34 non-governmental organisations, including IFAW, is calling on the EU to increase its ambition in the next long-term budget. The joint recommendations cover several key areas of international action - including biodiversity, climate, human rights, peace and security. The aim is to ensure that EU external funding has a real impact for people and the planet.

For IFAW, the protection of biodiversity is a top priority. Nature is the foundation for healthy societies, resilient economies and a stable climate. Yet, ecosystems are being destroyed at an alarming rate, especially in regions most vulnerable to poverty and conflict. This loss threatens food and water supplies, causes displacement and increases insecurity.

The EU must respond with stronger leadership. In the next Multiannual Financial Framework, at least 50% of external funding should be used to support climate and biodiversity goals. Of this, 15% must be dedicated exclusively to biodiversity without mixing it with climate or other green objectives.

The EU should also make biodiversity a cross-cutting priority and include it in all sectors of international cooperation, from agriculture to infrastructure and trade. More funding must be made available to indigenous peoples and local communities, whose knowledge and leadership are essential for protecting nature on the ground.