European Climate Adaptation Financing Demands Clear Political Decisions, Including France’s Strategic Role

The recent closure of a public consultation on the European integrated framework for climate resilience and risk management signals a crucial step forward in addressing the continent's adaptation financing challenges. The European Commission plans to present an enhanced proposal by the end of 2026, focusing on embedding “resilience by design” across all major funding mechanisms, including the Common Agricultural Policy and the Connecting Europe Facility.

Achieving effective climate resilience will require not only better but increased investments, both at the European level and within individual member states like France. However, decision-making remains ambiguous regarding the amounts and priority areas for funding adaptation measures. Key questions persist about acceptable risk levels and whether to preserve or transform certain activities.

French research highlights the value of establishing a common reference trajectory at the European level to clarify risk considerations. This approach could help guide political choices on sector-specific and territorial strategies, emphasizing dependencies and coherence in planning, infrastructure, technology, and solidarity.

Furthermore, monitoring adaptation expenditures reveals important co-benefits such as pioneering new technologies, safeguarding sectoral sovereignty, and reinforcing critical infrastructure resilience. Recognizing these collective gains is vital for shaping economic models that can finance climate adaptation effectively.

This vision extends beyond Europe, reflecting France’s involvement in international adaptation financing efforts. By integrating resilience into funding policies and clarifying strategic priorities, the EU and France aim to secure long-term economic stability and security amid growing climate risks.