European universities seek €200 billion for next Horizon Europe research programme

European universities and research organisations are calling on the European Union to allocate at least €200 billion to its next Horizon Europe research programme for 2028–34, arguing that stronger investment is needed to sustain scientific research, international collaboration and Europe's global competitiveness.

A coalition of 29 organisations, including the European University Association (EUA), the League of European Research Universities (LERU) and CESAER, an association of science and technology universities, has launched a petition urging European leaders to protect research funding during negotiations over the EU's next seven-year budget.

The demand comes amid differences over the programme's proposed allocation. In October, Ireland, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU, proposed a budget of €158.2 billion for Horizon Europe. This is €17 billion below the European Commission's proposed allocation of €175 billion.

University groups argue that even the Commission's proposal falls short of what is required to support scientific breakthroughs and maintain Europe's position in global research.

University groups push for higher research investment

The petition comes ahead of a Nov 10 vote by the European Parliament's Committee on Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE), which is expected to consider a compromise proposal calling for €200 billion for Horizon Europe.

The proposed amount has received support from university organisations, but it still requires approval from the full European Parliament. EU member states must also agree on the overall budget.

Kurt Deketelaere, secretary general of LERU, described the compromise as an important development for European research and innovation. He said the programme should be guided by scientific excellence, independent expertise, academic freedom and international openness.

The organisations have warned that Europe cannot expect its research and innovation systems to deliver more for economic competitiveness, prosperity and security while reducing investment in their foundations.