Europe must take ownership of its economic and geopolitical power - warn university leaders from six EU countries

Europe can no longer take its geopolitical environment, partnerships or security for granted. It is time to take responsibility for its own economic and geopolitical strength, alert representatives of universities from six EU countries. As the rectors point out, research, education and innovation are the cornerstone of Europe’s competitiveness and resilience and play a key role in this process. Furthermore, the current international situation calls for a shift in approach to European policies.

- Recent events have shown that Europe can no longer take its geopolitical environment, partnerships or security for granted, the document states.

The authors also referred to the words of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who described the current period as a time when Europe must “increase its strategic autonomy and take ownership for its economic and geopolitical strength”.

Science and education as the foundation of Europe’s position

In a joint statement, university rectors from Poland, Germany, France, Spain, the Netherlands and Belgium highlighted that research, education and innovation form the basis of Europe’s strength on the international stage. At the same time, they pointed out that this system is under pressure.

- This foundation is being weakened by funding cuts and attacks on academic freedom, warn representatives of European universities.

Knowledge as a strategic asset

The authors of the document underline that in the context of growing global competition, knowledge and research capacity are taking on new significance.

- Knowledge and research potential are increasingly viewed as strategic resources that are subject to competition and protection”, the statement continues.

In practical terms, this means that investment in science and education must be seen as a key factor in building Europe’s independence and resilience.

Call for increased funding under FP10

The document includes a specific demand regarding the future EU budget. This relates in particular to FP10 – the EU’s 10th Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (Framework Programme 10).

- We jointly call for the allocation of €220 billion to FP10 and €60 billion to Erasmus+.

According to the signatories, decisions in this area will affect Europe’s ability to compete in an increasingly divided world and its ability to attract researchers and students.

FP10 should remain autonomous

Representatives of European universities emphasised that the future Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (FP10) should retain its central role. Furthermore, the programme should cover both basic and applied research, and new EU instruments should strengthen rather than limit its role.

- FP10 should be well-funded, fully autonomous and firmly rooted in the principle of excellence, the rectors write.

The importance of social sciences and humanities

The signatories of the statement also point out that Europe’s development requires strong support for the social sciences and humanities. These disciplines should form an integral part of the research system, including in the areas of analysing disinformation, strengthening democracy and supporting the development of new technologies.

Erasmus+ as a key part of European cooperation

Rectors of European universities emphasised the importance of the Erasmus+ programme for European integration.

- Erasmus+ has become one of the most tangible symbols of Europe for millions of students and staff, the joint statement reads.

The programme’s budget should be increased. Without this, it will be difficult to respond to growing interest and rising costs, and to ensure widespread access to academic mobility.

Open-mindedness and international cooperation

Much attention was paid to the importance of academic freedom and cross-border cooperation.

- The ability of researchers, students and ideas to move freely […] is an essential condition for excellence, creativity and innovation, the statement continues.

Universities’ voice in the debate on the future of the EU

The statement was signed by the organisations representing universities from Poland, Germany, France, Spain, the Netherlands and Belgium, including the Conference of Rectors of Academic Schools in Poland (CRASP). The signatories emphasised that investment in research, education and mobility is crucial to maintaining Europe’s position.

The full text of the joint statement by European university representatives is available here.  

Iwona Cieślik
PULS Press Officer