(fra EFTAs pressemelding 18.11.2025)

EEA EFTA States call for clearer provisions on participation in new EU programmes

Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway welcome the new programme proposals under the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028–2034 and recognise the programmes’ crucial role in boosting Europe’s competitiveness, security and resilience.

The three EEA EFTA States currently participate in and financially contribute to 15 EU programmes. In a new EEA EFTA Comment, they welcome the proposals for the next programming period, but raise concerns relating to their participation status, the introduction of new eligibility requirements, and their access to programme committees.  

On EU programme participation, Article 81 of the EEA Agreement specifies that – at the project level – institutions, undertakings, organisations and nationals of EEA EFTA States shall have the same rights and obligations as those of EU Member States.

Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway call on the European Parliament and Council to introduce a separate article in the new programme proposals that distinguishes between the EEA EFTA States and third countries with other association arrangements, and to consistently refer to the EEA Agreement as the legal basis for the EEA EFTA States’ participation. They are supportive of the possibility of either full or partial participation, which is already provided for in many of the proposals.  

They note that several programmes introduce eligibility requirements aimed at preserving the EU’s strategic and economic interests. These requirements must nevertheless be implemented in full respect of the participation rights guaranteed by the EEA Agreement. In this context, the EEA EFTA States highlight their close, reliable and active cooperation with European partners on defence and security. Where eligibility restrictions are introduced, they should avoid inadvertently raising barriers within the Internal Market.  

Lastly, while mindful of the need for greater flexibility in responding to new geopolitical challenges, the EEA EFTA States emphasise the importance of a clear and predictable governance structure across the seven-year programming period. With fewer, more cross-sectoral programme committees proposed, equal access in the preparation of new work programmes must be guaranteed for EEA EFTA entities, as stipulated in Article 81(b) EEA.  

Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway reaffirm their commitment to actively engaging with the EU on the new programme proposals to ensure that they deliver on a more competitive, secure and resilient Internal Market of 30 States.