22 Oct 2024
EC presents Communication on progress made on implementing ERA
The European Commission (EC) has adopted a Communication on the implementation of the European Research Area (ERA). The Communication was published on 22 October 2024 and analyses the progress made on ERA so far, and the further work that is needed to fully tap into its potential. It also refers to the Draghi report and the Political Guidelines for the next Commission as highlighting that research and innovation are critical drivers of economic resilience, competitiveness and wellbeing.
The new Communication takes stock of the progress made under the four strategic objectives laid down in the Pact for R&I, and highlights where further work is needed. The points raised as scope for further action are the following:
- Prioritising investments and reforms:
- improving investment conditions;
- removing regulatory barriers to business financing, scale-up and deployment of innovations;
- greater coordination on joint priorities.
- Improving access to excellence:
- continued simplification of administrative procedures;
- better information sharing on available opportunities;
- Translating results into economic impact:
- attract more private investments to boost innovation;
- remove regulatory, legal and administrative barriers that make Europe less attractive for investors and innovators;
- extend the use of innovation procurement and tackle skills shortages.
- Deepening the ERA:
- address obstacles to talent mobility;
- find solutions for long-term funding of infrastructures and make them universally accessible.
The first ERA Policy Agenda (2022-2024) is nearing completion with tangible results, and this new Communication comes as the second ERA Policy Agenda (2025-2027) is being prepared.
For more information:
Communication on the implementation of the European Research Area