In reaction to the delayed completion of the UK association to Horizon Europe, YERUN is joining the European research and innovation community to support the United Kingdom’s association to Horizon Europe as soon as possible. Together, representatives of the R&I community have signed a joint letter addressing the President of the European Commission, Ms. Ursula von der Leyen, which can be downloaded here.
A strong framework programme in research and innovation is essential for the EU to succeed in the twin green and digital transitions. Europe’s strategic autonomy requires close collaboration with the EU’s closest partner in research and innovation.
The absence of a clear timeline for finalising the UK association is now causing increasing concern. This lingering uncertainty risks endangering current and future plans for collaboration.
We are rapidly approaching a crunch point. With the first Horizon Europe grant agreements approaching and new calls soon to be launched, the UK association must be finalised without further delay.
Now is the time for swift and decisive action. Further delays or even non-association would result in a missed opportunity and a major weakening of our collective research strength and competitiveness.
We urge the European Commission and UK Government to work towards a successful UK association to Horizon Europe, to safeguard this valuable and mutually beneficial R&I cooperation.