YERUN provides initial reaction to MFF and FP10 proposal

YERUN, the Young European Research Universities Network, has published an initial reaction to the European Commission’s (EC) proposal for the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028-2034, including the next Research Framework Programme, the European Competitiveness Fund (ECF) and Erasmus. YERUN acknowledges the EC’s focus on strengthening the EU’s competitiveness and capacity to address global challenges through knowledge and innovation.  

YERUN welcomes the proposed total MFF envelope of € 2 trillion (in current prices), and the 23% earmarked for the ECF. YERUN also welcomes the proposed EUR 175 billion budget for FP10, saying this sends a strong signal of the EU’s commitment to research, talent, and innovation as essential drivers of European competitiveness and global leadership.

YERUN's initial reflections on FP10 cover the following aspects:

• The close association between FP10 and the new ECF in the policy windows;
• the redefined role for collaborative research (Pillar II);
• Simplification measures;
• the role of universities in the R&I ecosystem;
• spreading excellence and supporting widening participation with targeted measures.

In conclusion, YERUN calls on decision-makers in the MFF negotiations to consider the following priorities:

• maintain the core mission of FP10 as an excellence-based, collaborative and inclusive research programme;
• ensure clear and distinct governance between FP10 and other instruments such as the ECF;
• ensure sufficient resources for societal challenges;
• reflect the full role of universities in Europe’s research, innovation and skills strategies;
• implement simplification measures that support transparency, quality and wider participation; and
• sustain and strengthen support for widening participation through tailored and well-funded initiatives.  

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