EU Unveils €500 Million Plan to Attract Top Global Scientists
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has announced a €500 million package to strengthen scientific research across EU. The initiative, covering the 2025–2027 period, aims to attract leading global scientists, especially those disillusioned with the US under President Donald Trump.
Europe Positions Itself as a Hub for Innovation
Speaking in Paris alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, von der Leyen described science as a vital investment. “We need to offer the right incentives,” she said, introducing the funding plan. “We are choosing to be the continent where universities are pillars of our societies and our way of life.”
Von der Leyen emphasised that research, innovation, and technology will be placed at the heart of Europe’s economy. She also called on EU member states to raise research and development (R&D) spending to 3% of GDP by 2030.
The announcement is part of a broader effort by Europe to elevate its global research profile and to capitalise on uncertainty in the US academic sector. President Trump has threatened to reduce federal funding for top institutions like Harvard, prompting concerns within the scientific community.
France Leads with ‘Choose France for Science’ Platform
In line with the EU’s vision, France recently launched the “Choose France for Science” initiative. Operated by the French National Research Agency (ANR), the platform allows universities, research institutions, and schools to apply for co-funding to host international researchers.
Macron and von der Leyen had earlier indicated their shared intent to position Europe as a welcoming destination for scientists worldwide. The latest funding initiative marks a significant step in that direction, reflecting Europe’s ambition to remain at the forefront of global scientific advancement.
with inputs from Reuters
