On 20 April 2026, a high-level policy event at the European Parliament brought together representatives from across the research and innovation (R&I) landscape to discuss the role of investment in shaping Europe’s future competitiveness and prosperity. The event report has just been published.
Organised under the auspices of the European Parliament, the discussion focused on the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) and the design of the upcoming Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (FP10). Participants expressed strong alignment around the need for an ambitious and robust budget that can position R&I at the heart of Europe’s strategic priorities.
Speakers underlined that investment in research and innovation should not be considered in isolation, but as a foundational driver underpinning economic strength, industrial transformation, and societal resilience. In this context, FP10 was widely seen as a key instrument to support Europe’s long-term competitiveness and capacity to respond to global challenges.
The debate also highlighted the importance of maintaining FP10 as a strong, standalone programme within the broader EU funding landscape, while ensuring synergies with other instruments under the next EU budget. Participants cautioned against underinvestment and stressed that Europe must match its ambitions with adequate financial commitments.
The event brought together voices from academia, industry, the research and technology sector, and EU institutions, reflecting a shared message: investing in knowledge, talent, and innovation is essential for Europe’s future. EURASHE contributed to the discussion as a supporting organisation, alongside a broad coalition of stakeholders engaged in shaping the European R&I agenda.