Why is this Communication published today?

The Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) is central to NextGenerationEU. The Communication is issued today as the RRFs end approaches, and much work remains. Member States must complete all targets by 31 August 2026, and the Commission must make all payments by 31 December 2026. The time to act is now.

This Communication clarifies actions Member States should take to successfully finalize their recovery and resilience plans. The Commission is ready to support Member States in revising and streamlining their plans.

What are the exact deadlines for RRF implementation?

The deadline to complete all targets is 31 August 2026. Actions after this date do not count for assessment. Member States must submit the last payment request by 30 September 2026, and the Commission must complete all payments by 31 December 2026.

Is the Recovery and Resilience Facility fulfilling its goal to make European economies and societies more sustainable and resilient?

The RRF, at the heart of NextGenerationEU, has enhanced Europes response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The unique model ensures fast disbursement of EU funds, contributing to sustainable growth.

Simulations show that NextGenerationEU investments will increase EU GDP by 1.4% in 2026. The RRF has contributed to a rapid economic rebound, strengthened cohesion within the Union, and accelerated green and digital transitions.

What is the current state of implementation of the RRF?

As of the end of May 2025, EUR 315 billion has been disbursed for 2218 targets, with EUR 335 billion remaining. Implementation is swift but needs acceleration in most Member States.

Why are there implementation delays?

Implementing all RRF projects is challenging due to the fundings scale. While administrative capacity has improved, absorption issues remain. Implementation is affected by crises like the war in Ukraine and high inflation.

Member States need to revise and accelerate their RRPs to fully benefit from the RRF by 31 August 2026.

Why do delays have a cost to the EU budget?

Delays in payment requests have led to large EU balances, incurring costs due to interest. The Commission will utilize all funding opportunities to maintain payment capabilities.

What steps should Member States take to mitigate these delays?

Member States should review their RRPs to ensure all targets are met by the deadline. They can replace measures that cant be completed in time and consider options like scaling up existing measures and creating financial instruments.

Will all remaining projects be implemented and funds absorbed by the end of 2026?

The Commission provides timely guidance for successful RRF closure. If Member States remain focused and plans are revised and simplified quickly, they can make the most of remaining time and resources.