21 Jul 2025
Science Europe publishes response to MFF and FP10 proposal
Science Europe, the association of major public research funding and research performing organisations, has published an initial response to the European Commission's proposals for the 2028–2034 EU Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) and Horizon Europe 2028-2034.
The paper on 'A reliable financial framework and a robust R&I programme for Europe's scientific leadership' was presented on 18 July 2025. Science Europe welcomes the significant budget increase and self-standing nature of the next Framework Programme, but calls for clarification on its alignment with the European Competitiveness Fund (ECF).
In its paper, Science Europe includes a number of recommendations for the ensuing discussions between the European Commission, Parliament, and Council, calling for:
- A reliable and transparent budget for R&I, ringfenced within the MFF to avoid re-alignment to non-R&I
- priorities, and aligned with national efforts to reach the target of 3% GDP investment.
- A broad definition of competitiveness, integrating societal and technological innovation and valuing long-term impact.
- Reinforced support for fundamental and blue-sky research, with balanced funding across all TRLs, which protects freedom of scientific enquiry, the independence of the ERC and the bottom-up approach of the MSCA.
- Clear safeguards to preserve the integrity of research in Pillar 2, ensuring it remains focused on scientific excellence and collaboration.
- Continued efforts to keep research open and secure, with tailored measures to address dual-use concerns and research security.
- An integrated, inclusive European R&I system that moves beyond the concept of ‘widening’ with effective support for capacity building and participation.
- Meaningful simplification without compromising standards, and transparency around new governance mechanisms, including ARPA-like innovation models.
Science Europe encourages the European Parliament and Council of the EU to work closely with the R&I community during the budget and programme negotiations, to continue its support of an excellent, inclusive, and competitive European R&I ecosystem.
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