39 European research entities calling for an independent, standalone EU R&I Framework Programme

"We strongly believe that a dedicated budget and an independent programme (...) are indispensable for the European R&I agenda. Science must serve as a unifying force, not a source of division. It is a cornerstone of Europe’s prosperity, resilience, and the long-term sustainability of its economic and social model", states 38 European entities related to research and innovation in an open letter to Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, on 10/04/2025.

The letter highlights the support from the European Parliament and the Council of the EU, as well as the research community, industry representatives through their sectoral associations, and civil society organisations, for a stand-alone Framework Programme 10.

The signatories express their concern over the possibility of diluting the FP10 into a European Competitiveness Fund, which "would send a damaging signal to the EU’s co-legislators and actors in the R&I ecosystem, but also to the European citizens. It is with profound concern that we, the undersigned, urge you to work towards building a strong and independent…