1. The European Research Area talks in Slovenia ended, but more political commitment is needed for the project to move forward
Members of the European Union reached agreement in November on a reimagined European Research Area (ERA), setting the stage for the implementation of a single market for research with shared investment targets, principles, and values.
2. The French government is aiming for an ambitious innovation-based economic growth model for Europe
Additionally, the EU wants to convince other member states to dedicate more of their defense budgets to technology developed in Europe, and it hopes more governments will collaborate on common defense R&D projects funded by the EU’s €7.9 billion defence fund.
3. Can Europe achieve its green ambitions?
A recent report by the European Commission on green investments, which includes nuclear power and natural gas, disappointed environmentalists hoping COP26 would mark a turning point.
4. What progress can be expected with the Horizon Europe association?
We still don’t know what the Commission expects from Switzerland and the UK, or what are the minimum requirements before they can join Horizon Europe.
5. Transatlantic R&D relations are improving, but there is still much to be done.
There are those in global research who remain wary, waiting for more concrete laws, programmes, and actions that back up the administration’s promises.
6. When will international research be able to return to normal in a pandemic?
In less than a year, the COVID-19 vaccines were without a doubt the biggest achievement of international science.
Source: Science Business Reporting
Picture: Science Business