EU must reform, consolidate, use joint debt to cope with spending needs, IMF says
The International Monetary Fund has urged EU countries to implement reforms and consider joint debt to address upcoming financial challenges. The IMF warns that without action, public debt could reach unsustainable levels, potentially doubling by 2040. Key recommendations include integrating energy markets, improving labor mobility, and reforming pensions to attract private investment.
- ▪The EU faces significant financial pressures related to defense, energy, and pensions over the next 15 years.
- ▪The IMF predicts that public debt could reach 130 percent of GDP by 2040 if current policies remain unchanged.
- ▪Joint debt is a contentious issue within the EU, with differing opinions among member states on its necessity.
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EU must reform, consolidate, use joint debt to cope with spending needs, IMF saysSign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inboxThe EU should integrate its energy markets, make it easier for citizens’ savings to flow across the bloc into profitable investments.PHOTO: REUTERSPublished May 23, 2026, 06:01 PMUpdated May 23, 2026, 06:01 PMNICOSIA - European Union countries will face large bills for defence, energy and pensions in the next 15 years, the International Monetary Fund told EU finance ministers on May 23, suggesting a mix of reforms, consolidation and joint borrowing as a way to manage that.“If left unchecked, public debt will be on an unsustainable path.
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