As leading research universities across three countries which have associated to Horizon Europe, we warmly welcome President von der Leyen’s announcement last week that the EU Framework Programme for R&I will remain a self-standing programme. At a moment of global uncertainty, this was a timely commitment to the positive impact of collaborative research across trusted partners.
As the world’s largest collaborative R&D programme, Horizon Europe reflects the fact that research and innovation are inherently collaborative endeavours. By working together, we can go further and achieve more than we ever could alone.
A stand-alone Framework Programme 10 (FP10) will enable us to continue valuable research across borders, in a framework that fosters the creation of global R&I networks and brings together researchers of different disciplines.
With the details of the new framework still under discussion, we hope the Commission will come forward with proposals which reflect the key strengths of previous framework programmes, including the targeted support for excellent fundamental research in Horizon Europe. This has helped harness many of the complementary strengths of associated countries for mutual benefit.
Enabling associated membership to FP10 on fair and mutually beneficial terms will be critical to maximising the impact of FP10 on the shared goals of economic growth and competitiveness. Setting out a clear path to FP10 association ahead of time will enable partner countries like ours to make an informed, early decision about signing up – ensuring our universities would be ready to contribute to the new R&D work programmes from day one.
Amid growing international uncertainty and geopolitical tensions, the global research community must double down on its collaborative approach. Pooling ideas and talent mean we can deliver more societal benefits and help build a better future for all.
Dr Tim Bradshaw
Chief Executive, Russell Group
Dr. Chad Gaffield
CEO, U15 Canada
Dr Luciana Vaccaro
President, swissuniversities