Creating greater synergy between European and national budgets

This study analysed spending at both EU and national levels in the following policy areas: education and training, social policy, research and development, humanitarian aid and common and foreign security policy. It also reviewed the mechanisms and processes aiming at ensuring budget coordination between the two levels. While the policy priorities of the Member States under scrutiny are congruent with those of the EU, the overall synergy between strategic EU policy objectives and budgetary policies is weak. Recommendations are made that could enhance budgetary coordination between the two levels.