EU research groups seek greater say in €175 billion Horizon Europe programme

The European Commission’s consultation on research partnerships under the next Horizon Europe programme closed on Oct 16, with research organisations calling for transparent governance, flexible funding and greater involvement in setting research priorities.

Science Europe, an association representing research funding and research-performing organisations, published its response on the consultation deadline. It called for European Partnerships to support long-term collaboration and better coordinate national and European research efforts.

The organisation also stressed that future partnerships should avoid unnecessary complexity and barriers to participation, while supporting the full spectrum of research, including fundamental research.

The consultation forms part of preparations for Horizon Europe, the European Union’s research and innovation programme for 2028–2034. The Commission is gathering evidence and stakeholder views to inform the design of future European Partnerships, including Joint Undertakings and initiatives under Article 185 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union.

The proposed framework aims to strengthen collaboration between the EU, member states, research organisations and industry, while mobilising public and private investment and aligning research priorities with European strategic objectives.

The Commission said the consultation’s findings would feed into its impact assessment and help shape the future partnership framework.

A factual summary report is expected eight weeks after the consultation closes, while the legislative proposal is expected in late 2026 or early 2027.

The consultation’s closure does not mean that final research priorities or funding allocations have been decided. These will depend on the subsequent policy and legislative process.