The European Parliament has thrown its weight behind demands for a bigger long-term EU budget, approving its position for negotiations on the bloc’s next seven-year financial framework for 2028 to 2034.

Lawmakers endorsed the stance by 370 votes to 201, with 84 abstentions, showing clear backing for increased spending in the coming years. The result is likely to sharpen tensions with several member states that remain reluctant to send more money to Brussels.

MEPs want the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) set at 1.27% of EU gross national income, while repayments tied to the post-pandemic recovery fund would sit outside the main budget limits. If accepted by governments, total EU expenditure could rise above €2 trillion over the period.

That level would be roughly 10% above the European Commission’s proposed figure. Parliament argues the increase is necessary if Europe is to meet challenges such as war on the continent, economic strain, climate pressures and falling competitiveness.

In a resolution adopted on Tuesday, MEPs said the next budget should prioritise investment and support for citizens, companies, farmers and regions, while ensuring clear added value at EU level.

Although Parliament appeared more open to Commission plans giving states greater flexibility over spending, it insisted funding for areas such as health, cohesion and social policy must remain clearly earmarked. Members also called for stronger backing for programmes including Erasmus+, Horizon Europe, the Connecting Europe Facility and EU4Health.

However, while pushing for higher spending, MEPs were less united on how to finance it. They supported proposals for new EU “own resources”, including revenue from the Emissions Trading System, uncollected e-waste and a tobacco levy, but divisions remain sharp.

Parliament also repeated that access to EU funds must depend on respect for democratic standards and the rule of law.

The vote gives MEPs a firm mandate ahead of talks with governments and the Commission, with difficult negotiations expected as countries such as Germany and the Netherlands favour tighter spending limits.