On 13 July 2023, the European Commission presented its ‘Proposal for a Council Recommendation on a European framework to attract and retain research, innovation and entrepreneurial talents in Europe’, together with a new Charter for Researchers and European Competence Framework for Researchers
The set of measures includes:
- a proposal for a Council Recommendation that establishes a new European framework for research careers;
- a new Charter for Researchers, replacing the 2005 Charter and Code for Researchers with new and revised principles;
- the European Competence Framework for Researchers (ResearchComp), to support inter-sectoral mobility of researchers.
Strengthening research careers is the most pursued objective of Member States in the ERA Policy Agenda. According to the EC, the proposed Council Recommendation addresses challenges of research careers in Europe with an all-sector approach, in line with the May 2021 Council Conclusions on research careers, and based on consultations with all relevant stakeholders. Aspects covered include:
- A definition of researcher and of the research professions, and the recognition of their value;
- Improved recruitment and working conditions, including measures to increase the use of permanent contracts;
- Researchers skilled for inter-sectoral and inter-disciplinary careers and for entrepreneurship and innovation;
- Fair career development and progression;
- Measures for a balanced circulation of talents;
- Strengthened support actions in support of research careers;
- Effective monitoring of research careers through a dedicated observatory.