What's Happening?
The European Parliament has formally requested a significant increase in the allocation for sports within the upcoming Erasmus+ program budget. In a position adopted on October 22, the Parliament proposed that at least 4.1% of the 2028–2034 Erasmus+ budget be dedicated
to sport, which is more than double the current share of 1.9%. This move is part of a broader proposal to set the overall Erasmus+ program budget at approximately €47.39 billion, representing a 16% increase from the European Commission's July 2025 proposal of €40.8 billion, and substantially higher than the €26 billion available for the current 2021–2027 program. This decision follows extensive advocacy efforts by organizations such as the International Sport and Culture Association (ISCA) and its partners in the Sport and Physical Activity Coalition, who have campaigned for stronger EU support for sport and physical activity.
Why It's Important?
This push by the European Parliament signifies a growing recognition of the importance of sport and physical activity within the broader educational and cultural framework of the European Union. A substantial increase in funding could lead to enhanced opportunities for sports-related exchanges, educational programs, and grassroots initiatives across member states. This would benefit numerous stakeholders, including sports organizations, educational institutions, and individuals participating in sports and physical activities. The increased budget could foster greater participation, promote healthier lifestyles, and strengthen social cohesion through sport. While the figures are not yet final and are subject to negotiations with the Council of the EU, the Parliament's strong stance indicates a clear political will to prioritize sports development and integration within European policy.
What's Next?
The European Parliament's adopted position will now serve as its basis for negotiations with the Council of the EU. The final budget allocation for the Erasmus+ program, including the specific share for sport, will be determined through these inter-institutional discussions. While the Parliament aims for at least 4.1% for sport, organizations like ISCA are advocating for an even higher allocation of at least 5% and emphasize the need for sport to maintain a clear identity within the program, with balanced governance and dedicated funding at the National Agency level. The outcome of these negotiations will dictate the scope and scale of sports initiatives funded by the EU in the next programming period.
Beyond the Headlines
The European Parliament's advocacy for increased sports funding reflects a broader trend towards integrating physical activity and sport into public policy as a tool for social development, health promotion, and education. This move could set a precedent for other international bodies and national governments to re-evaluate their investment in sports programs. Beyond direct funding, a higher profile for sport within Erasmus+ could lead to greater collaboration between educational and sports sectors, fostering innovative approaches to learning and community engagement. It also highlights the effectiveness of sustained advocacy by civil society organizations in influencing policy decisions at the European level, demonstrating how concerted efforts can lead to significant policy shifts and increased resource allocation for specific sectors.
