The European Parliament is calling for a strengthened and more accessible Erasmus+ programme for the 2028–2034 period, offering more opportunities for education, training and mobility to young people and citizens across Europe.

Europeans increasingly see the EU as a safe haven in a troubled world, but expect stronger action on security, inflation and falling living standards.

The Spring 2026 Economic Forecast projects weaker economic activity in the EU, as the conflict in the Middle East triggers a new energy shock that reignites inflation and weighs on growth. GDP growth is expected to slow in 2026, while inflation is revised sharply upwards, mainly because of higher energy prices. The outlook could improve slightly in 2027 if tensions in energy markets ease.