EBN – In a significant development, the United Kingdom has re-entered the Horizon Europe and Copernicus research programmes.
The move enabled British scientists to regain access to vital EU funding and reinforce collaborative efforts with European counterparts. This milestone also signifies a positive upswing in EU-UK diplomatic ties.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasised the strategic partnership and alliance between the EU and the UK.
“The EU and UK are key strategic partners and allies, and today’s agreement proves that point,” she said. “We will continue to be at the forefront of global science and research.”
Financial Terms of Association Improved
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed satisfaction with the agreement, highlighting “improved financial terms of association.” However, the UK will not participate in the Euratom nuclear energy programme.
To participate in Horizon Europe and Copernicus, the UK is expected to make an average annual contribution of €2.6 billion.
Continued membership in these research initiatives was a priority for the UK following Brexit, but a resolution was hindered by ongoing disputes between London and Brussels, particularly concerning Northern Ireland arrangements.
Negotiations resumed in February after both parties reached a new accord on post-Brexit arrangements, known as the Windsor Framework.
Additionally, the Horizon programme had previously been a significant source of EU grants for UK research in science and technology.
Concerns Over Access to EU Funding Gone After Horizon Partnership
British universities had expressed concerns about the potential consequences of not securing post-Brexit access to EU research funding. This includes the risk of compromising the UK’s academic leadership and experiencing a talent drain.
In anticipation of this possibility, UK government ministers had devised an alternative strategy, named Pioneer.
Iliana Ivanova, the incoming EU research chief, underscored the importance of strengthening partnerships with like-minded countries through Union programmes. She also suggested that the UK’s participation in the programme could attract more investments.
Meanwhile, Brussels is currently engaged in discussions with Switzerland regarding its access to the Horizon programme. This further affirms the EU’s commitment to collaborative global research efforts.
