The evaluation and monitoring of the Framework Programmes has evolved over the years. Today, this is a systematic activity implemented directly in the key documents of each FP.

Evaluating Horizon Europe

Article 47 of the proposed Horizon Europe Regulation outlines that evaluations will be carried out in a timely manner to feed into the decision-making process on Horizon Europe and future framework programmes.

An interim evaluation of Horizon Europe should be carried out once there is enough information about its implementation. It must be done no later than 4 years after the start of the programme.

It will assess the programme's effect based on its indicators and targets and provide a detailed analysis of the degree to which the programme is

• relevant
• effective
• efficient
• providing enough EU added-value
• coherent with other EU policies

The evaluation will also identify deficiencies or problems. It will identify potential to improve the programme’s activities and results and maximise the exploitation and impact of the programme.

Impact assessment

The impact assessment identifies the main research and innovation challenges in Europe, outlines the objectives of the future programme and its foreseen structure.

For Horizon Europe it also provides evidence-based policy and design recommendations such as unique elements e.g. research and innovation missions and a fully-fledged European Innovation Council.

The impact assessment for Horizon Europe was published in June 2018.

It was drafted in line with the Commission’s better regulation guidelines and builds on the:

• evidence and lessons learned from the interim evaluation of the preceding programme, Horizon 2020
• recommendations of the independent high-level group on maximising the impact of EU research and innovation
• results of a stakeholder consultation

source: Horizon Europe programme analysis | European Commission. European Commission |  [online]. https://ec.europa.eu/info/research-and-innovation/strategy/support-policy-making/shaping-eu-research-and-innovation-policy/evaluation-impact-assessment-and-monitoring/horizon-europe_en