The EU's proposed budget for 2028-2034 risks transforming cohesion policy into a competitive funding arena by merging it with other major spending areas. Critics express concerns over reduced local control and support for disadvantaged regions, fearing that the new structure may lead to competition among various sectors. The proposal allocates €865 billion to a consolidated fund, which could deprioritize cohesion funding. Local governments are advocating for more involvement in the process as the proposal is still in its early stages.