Securing Europe's R&I Horizon: Call for a Researcher-Centred Framework Programme

The MCAA welcomes the European Commission’s ambition to shape a bold and forward-looking 10th EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (FP10) within the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF). The MCAA strongly supports the continued focus on excellent science, the standalone nature of FP10, and the increased budgetary envelope of €175 billion. It welcomes the sustained support for the European Research Council (ERC) and the MSCA, as well as the growing attention to researcher careers, inclusion, and simplification.

However, several concerns must be addressed to ensure FP10’s long-term success. The integration of FP10 within the European Competitiveness Fund (ECF) and the introduction of the Competitiveness Coordination Tool (CCT) risk undermining scientific independence and bottom-up excellence. The proposed directionality of the MSCA and its potential alignment with “moonshot” projects could dilute its core mission and limit its global appeal. The ERC’s scientific autonomy must be safeguarded in light of changes to its governance, and geopolitical filters in international cooperation raise concerns about openness. Moreover, the proposed FP10 budget, though higher than Horizon Europe, remains below expert recommendations and is insufficient to meet growing demand, especially in light of inflation and the expansion of Europe’s research workforce.  To ensure FP10 is fit for purpose and delivers on its ambition, the MCAA puts forward five key recommendations stated in the statement below.