The preliminary position paper from Romania outlines a vision for the future of the European Union’s Framework Programme 10 (FP10) for Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI). It recognizes the successes of current EU research initiatives, yet emphasizes that Europe must adopt an ambitious strategy to remain competitive globally.
Romania supports the following key principles:
- Exploiting the European Dimension: Member States must collaborate fully to leverage collective RDI capacities, support researcher mobility, and encourage joint multinational RDI activities.
- Utilizing EU Instruments: A coherent strategy is needed to integrate various EU policies and ensure funding continuity. State aid rules require simplification to better support RDI initiatives.
- Capitalizing on Excellence: Disparities in participation must be addressed to optimize Europe’s RDI potential. FP10 should integrate excellence across Europe and set aside a specific budget for widening participation.
- Reducing Brain Drain: FP10 should attract and retain talent by creating a stimulating environment for researchers and offering return grants to those wishing to return to their home countries for research
- Placing Applicants at the Center: FP10 must encourage participation from researchers by streamlining the application process and reducing administrative burdens. A simplified framework will enhance clarity for applicants.
- Addressing Major Challenges: FP10 aims to strengthen the EU’s competitiveness by fostering jobs and innovations that tackle significant societal challenges, such as climate change. It should enhance links between research infrastructures and thematic priorities, ultimately benefiting European citizens.
- The paper advocates for science diplomacy to encourage international research cooperation while being mindful of security concerns. Overall, FP10 should serve as a platform for effective collaboration, advancing research, and contributing meaningfully to societal progress.