The Price of Trust: A Conversation About Regions Democracy and the MFF

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With over one-third of the EU budget implemented at the regional level, regions play a frontline role in delivering on EU priorities. Yet, they are also where risks of mismanagement and democratic backsliding can undermine trust in the EU. As the next MFF negotiations unfold, this conversation will explore how EU funds flow in ways that strengthen democracy, transparency, and citizen trust on the ground, where it matters most. 

The purpose of this event is to continue the important conversation on the EU Multiannual Financial Framework by focusing specifically on the critical connection between the EU budget, democratic oversight in the regions, and the fight against corruption. It will explore how the EU budget can better support transparent, accountable governance at the regional level, and how strengthening democratic processes in the regions is essential to both effective budget oversight and citizen trust in the EU.

This event is part of a series of conversations around the EU’s Multiannual Financial Framework. It builds on the successful collaboration for the previous event “What is Democracy Worth?” held on 15 May 2025, which featured MEP Raquel Garcia Hermida-van der Walle, MEP René Repasi, and MEP Brando Benifei and highlighted the role of funding in defending and advancing democracy in Europe. 

AGENDA

• 10:00 – 10:30 | Coffee and arrival 

• 10:30 – 12:00 | Interview-style panel debate and audience Q&A 

Nicu Ștefănuță, Vice-President of European Parliament  

Rasmus Andresen, Member of European Parliament, Greens/EFA Coordinator in Committee on Budgets 

Sari Rautio, President of the EPP-Committee of Regions group and Committee of the Regions Rapporteur on Multiannual Financial Framework

Rosita Hickey, Director of Inquiries for the European Ombudsman

Gillian Coughlan, Member of the EU Committee of Regions and Councillor at the City of Cork

Niccolo Milanese, Director at European Alternatives

Daniela Vancic, Democracy International, moderator 

• 12:00 – 13:00 | “Three Big Ideas for Democracy” – breakout discussions on key proposals arising from the panel and how civil society and policymakers can take them forward in 2026

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This event will offer a hybrid participation option for the panel discussion. The connection link will be shared with registered participants in the days ahead of the event.