The European Council has enacted the first reading position of the European Union’s financial framework programme for research and innovation for the years 2021 to 2027 on Horizon Europe

The Council has adopted its position following an agreement made with the European Parliament in December of last year, which lays the groundwork for the approval of the regulation on Horizon Europe at the second reading, a press of the Council of the EU announces.

“Today’s adoption of the Council’s position brings us only one step away from the final adoption of the most ambitious EU research and innovation programme so far. Our researchers are given the necessary tools for their valuable contribution to our resilient economic recovery from the COVID-19 crisis and the swift transition towards a green and digital economy,” the Portuguese Minister for Science and Technology, and Higher Education Manuel Heitor said.

The press release, issued on March 16, explains that the regulation establishes the structure and the goals of the programme, monetary resources, the format, and the rules to provide EU funding. It also emphasizes that 35 per cent of the expenses for the funded activities from the programme must contribute to climate objectives.

In addition, the regulation helps the cooperation regarding the field of research and innovation between the European Union and third countries, StudyinPoland.Info reports.

In comparison to its forerunner, for the years 2021 to 2027, Horizon Europe presents:

• A cluster approach to tackle social issues.
• A streamlined approach concerning European partnerships.
• A mission-oriented approach.
• The European Innovation Council (EIC).
• Enhanced transparency to new partners while quality is the main criteria for selection.
• Simpler regulations, greater legal rights, and fewer administrative constraints for the recipients and the administrators of the programme.

The first five points of the Council’s position at first reading are as follows:

1. The Union’s objective is to strengthen its scientific and technological bases through the strengthening of the European research area (ERA).
2. To provide scientific, technological, economic, environmental, and social influence to achieve the general objective.
3. The Programme should be created for the period of the financial framework 2021-2027 as set out in Council Regulation 2020/2093.
4. The Programme should help in growing public and private investment in the Member States, hence helping to reach the target of at least three per cent of the Union’s overall output in development and research.
5. The Programme should aim to strengthen collaborative links in Europe.

The European Parliament is expected to confirm the Council’s position at the first reading in April 2021, under the agreement reached between the co-legislators last December. The position will apply retrospectively from January 1, 2021.