In 2024, the EU will reach an important milestone: the 40th anniversary of the launch of its first Framework Programme (FP) for research. On the occasion of its annual Network conference, Science|Business – which will more modestly celebrate 20 years of its own existence – will convene international leaders from across the science, technology and innovation spectrum to take stock of what the FPs have delivered to date, analyse their impact on Europe and on global R&D cooperation, and discuss future directions for the EU in science and technology.
Among the central themes to be addressed: As the EU institutions and member-states begin their deliberations on what will succeed Horizon Europe, how should the Framework Programme evolve in its 10th edition, and is the current approach the best in the long run? Is Europe ready to invest what it takes to remain a global leader in critical technology domains? Can policy and regulation keep pace with breakthrough science and drive innovation in industrial R&D ecosystems? What will the world look like 40 years from now, and what will be the role of science and technology in ensuring the planet remains a safe, clean and healthy place to live? And given current geopolitical trends, how to ensure that the world continues to work together on R&I and not follow divergent paths?
On February 12-13, join us in Brussels and online – along with past, current and possibly future architects of the Framework Programme – for a celebration of the EU’s journey to date, and more importantly a forward-looking exploration of what the next four decades may hold.
