EU Unveils €500 Mln Plan to Attract Global Scientists

The European Union has announced a €500 million funding package aimed at attracting top international scientists, particularly from the United States, in a bold move to position Europe as a global hub for research, innovation, and academic freedom.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen revealed the two-year initiative during a joint press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Monday.

The program is designed to draw researchers and experts to Europe at a time when political and financial pressures on science have escalated in the United States.

Von der Leyen emphasized that science is a long-term investment and highlighted the EU’s commitment to placing research, innovation, science, and technology at the core of its economic strategy.

She called on all EU member states to allocate at least 3% of their GDP to research and development by 2030.

Macron echoed this sentiment, reinforcing the message that Europe welcomes scientists and thinkers to pursue their work freely, without political interference.

He criticized the science policy under former US President Donald Trump, labeling it a mistake and a form of political dictation that undermines democratic values.

“No one could have imagined that the world’s leading democracy would make such an error,” Macron said, referring to the Trump administration’s shutdown of several US research programs and the resulting constraints on academic freedom.

During Trump’s presidency, American universities and research institutions faced deep federal funding cuts, growing political interference, and the dismissal of tens of thousands of federal employees.

Foreign students and researchers expressed concern about possible deportation based on their political views, adding to a climate of uncertainty.

The EU hopes this new initiative will provide not only a safe haven for global talent but also strengthen its own strategic interests and global scientific leadership.

With this funding, Europe aims to solidify its position as a center of academic excellence and freedom.