Europe is at risk of losing its leading position in scientific research. To avoid this, Europe needs to increase investment in research and innovation. Funding should be used more efficiently, and better cooperation among EU member states is essential. In addition, Europe must find more effective ways of converting research results into practical economic and societal benefits.
A group of more than thirty European science academies, including the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), has sent an open letter (PDF) to Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, and other EU leaders. In this letter, the academies call for a stronger and better-funded European research and innovation programme. The current European programme, Horizon Europe, will end in 2027, and preparations for the next programme (2028-2034) are already underway.
European science ministers have also emphasised the importance of ambitious European strategies and proper funding to maintain innovation and competitiveness. Earlier this month, they expressed this commitment in the Warsaw Declaration, highlighting the vital role played by the European Research Council (ERC) and the European Innovation Council (EIC). The ministers urge the European Commission to ensure that, in the new programme, these institutions remain independent and are further strengthened.