A new ‘Global Europe’ instrument: what is ahead for the EU external action?

The European Commission has unveiled its proposal for the EU’s 2028–2034 budget, including €200.3 billion for external action under the new Global Europe instrument. The plan underscores the EU’s ambition to strengthen its multilateral role, bolster competitiveness, and secure supply chains. However, removing thematic spending targets, such as the 30% allocation for energy and climate projects, risks weakening the coherence and impact of EU energy diplomacy.

With the EU Global Gateway Forum starting today, Brussels has a chance to reset its external action strategy. A just global energy transition must remain central—not only for climate goals but also as a driver of cooperation, competitiveness, and security. Policy coherence, financing, and coordination will be the litmus tests for credibility at upcoming milestones like the EU–AU Summit.

Two key publications—the Pact for the Mediterranean and the new vision for energy and climate diplomacy—are due October 16, offering a timely opportunity to refine the EU’s direction.

This analysis identifies the following changes in the budget configuration as key to address: 

• Non-programmable funding: it is important to keep providing certainty on budget allocation for partner countries, not to weaken EU bilateral relations and international credibility; 
• Elimination of thematic pillars: it is key to maintain energy and climate funding levels high, in a way that ensures coherence with the former budget and can deliver on existing projects; 
• Combination of different funding envelopes: it is paramount to ensure that this does not result in short-termism over long-term strategic results. 

If done right, a robust external budget could bolster EU credibility, diversify supply chains, and secure competitiveness. It can only happen if energy and climate remain at the heart of Global Europe.