Starting from the multiple challenges currently existing at the European level as well as from the general principles of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), the following policy brief presents, from a Romanian perspective[1], different scenarios for the following Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), with particular attention to direct payments, using appropriate empirical and long-term research methods for the reform of the Cohesion Policy, namely the reform of the CAP. Given the timeliness of the topic, the paper has a strong analytical and pragmatic character, aiming at offering national decision-makers different positioning options in European negotiating formats. This paper aims to improve understanding of performance budgeting and the presentation of options for the future financial framework in the context of current challenges.