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Czech National Position on the 10th EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (FP10)

17/12/2024

Today, the Czech national position on the preparation of the 10th EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (FP10) was published. FP10 will succeed the current Horizon Europe programme. The document outlines key recommendations and priorities aimed at ensuring more effective support for excellent research, innovation, and international cooperation in the upcoming programme period.

Key Points of the Czech Position

  • Continuity of proven instruments such as the European Research Council (ERC) and the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA);
  • Simplification of administrative processes, for example through broader use of lump-sum project funding mechanisms;
  • Support for the Widening initiative, ensuring that key instruments (Twinning, Teaming, or ERA Chairs) are maintained;
  • A holistic approach to research infrastructures, which are a crucial component of the European Research Area;
  • Continuation of gender equality plans as an eligibility criterion for participation in FP10;
  • More effective integration of innovation activities and tools, with the EIT being more closely linked to the EIC;
  • Better coordination of calls and enhanced synergies between different funding instruments, including strengthened cooperation between DG RTD, DG REGIO, and other European Commission departments;
  • Support for European Partnerships, which should have clear conditions, a defined strategy, and a legislative framework ensuring stable funding throughout their duration;
  • Introduction of clear mechanisms for mission governance, including definition of competencies and the establishment of channels for information sharing and interdisciplinary collaboration;
  • Research security should be addressed as a cross-cutting issue within the program, aiming to eliminate risks associated with illegitimate influence.

The Preparation Process and Broad Collaboration

The document was prepared by the Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sports (MEYS) in collaboration with experts from the academic community, national contact points, and research institutions.

Strategic discussions on FP10 began under the activities of the MEYS Council for International Cooperation and continued in 2024 with the establishment of the MEYS Platform for the Future Shape of FP10.

  • The first meeting of the platform took place on May 20, 2024, led by the Director of the Department of Research and Development, Lucie Núñez Tayupanta, with support from the Deputy Minister for Higher Education, Science, and Research, Radka Wildová.
  • Two subsequent round tables were held:
    • September 25, 2024, in cooperation with the Technology Centre Prague,
    • November 18, 2024, supported by the Czech Liaison Office for Research in Brussels (CZELO).

The final version of the position was further enriched by the results of a national public consultation conducted in the summer of 2024. Practical experiences and recommendations were also incorporated from the position paper of the NCPs prepared by the Technology Centre Prague.

What Comes Next?

The Czech national position will serve as a basis for negotiations and further discussions at the European level, where Member States will strive to incorporate their priorities into the final form of FP10. The European Commission's legislative proposal for FP10 is expected to be published in July 2025. This will be followed by deliberations at the level of the European Commission, the Council of the EU, and other European institutions. The programme is scheduled to launch on January 1, 2028.

In the Czech Republic, MŠMT will continue to coordinate activities related to FP10, including strategic meetings and monitoring the legislative process. Progress will be regularly communicated through the FP10 platform and other information channels.

The detailed document is available in the MŠMT press release here.

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