EU to Invest 5.67 Billion USD in Research, Countering US Cuts
1min read On May 5, French President Emmanuel Macron delivered a speech at the "Choose Europe, Engage in Science" event held at the Sorbonne University in Paris. The event marked the announcement of a significant initiative by the European Union to invest 5 billion euros (5.67 billion USD) over the next three years to attract research talent to Europe. This move is seen as a response to the Trump administration's cuts in research funding and adjustments to scientific policies.
Macron, along with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, criticized the recent actions of "one of the world's largest democracies," including the cancellation of hundreds of research grants. Von der Leyen emphasized the importance of investing in basic, free, and open scientific research, describing the current situation as a "serious misjudgment."
Since Trump's return to the White House, the United States has undergone several changes in its scientific policies. Von der Leyen and Macron's remarks come against this backdrop. For instance, the National Science Foundation, a federal agency responsible for advancing scientific discoveries, announced last month that it would cancel funding for hundreds of projects. These projects included research on diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as studies on vaccine information integrity and the spread of misinformation.
The National Science Foundation stated on its website that it would cease funding any research projects that violate Trump's January 20 executive order on "restoring free speech." Additionally, a budget proposal released by the White House last Friday includes significant cuts to the National Science Foundation's funding, reductions in climate science research, and the elimination of an institution focused on nursing research.
Macron expressed his disbelief at the actions of the United States, stating that no one could have imagined that a major democracy would cancel research projects simply because they contained the word "diversity." He also highlighted the irony of a country that relies heavily on free science and innovation for its economic model, yet is now taking such actions.
In contrast, von der Leyen emphasized that "open and free" science is Europe's "calling card." She stressed the need to protect this principle, especially now more than ever. Von der Leyen also announced that the European Commission aims to enshrine scientific freedom in law and that EU member states must achieve the goal of allocating 3% of their GDP to research and development by 2030.
