European Parliament publishes draft reports on the future Horizon Europe programme (2028–2034)

The European Parliament’s Committee on Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE) has published draft reports on the European Commission’s legislative proposals for the next Framework Programme for Research and Innovation – Horizon Europe for the period 2028–2034 (FP10).

Two key documents have been released:

• a Draft report on the proposal for a regulation establishing Horizon Europe – the Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (2028–2034) (rapporteur: Christian Ehler),
• a Draft report on the proposal for a Council decision establishing the Specific Programme implementing Horizon Europe – the Framework Programme for Research and Innovation for the period 2028–2034, laying down the rules for participation and dissemination under that Programme (rapporteur: René Repasi).

The draft reports set out the initial position of the European Parliament on the future Framework Programme and will serve as the basis for further parliamentary discussions.

Among other priorities, the reports highlight the importance of maintaining a strong and autonomous Framework Programme for research and innovation, strengthening support for scientific excellence and breakthrough innovation, safeguarding the autonomy of the European Research Council (ERC) and the European Innovation Council (EIC), and ensuring simplification and effective implementation of the programme for beneficiaries.

The discussion also addresses the relationship between Horizon Europe and the proposed European Competitiveness Fund (ECF), with the aim of ensuring stronger links between fundamental research, applied research, innovation and deployment.

Members of the European Parliament may submit amendments until 9 April 2026. The reports will then be discussed and voted on in the ITRE Committee, with the committee vote currently expected in September 2026, followed by a plenary vote in the European Parliament.

The Parliament’s position will subsequently form the basis for negotiations with the Council of the European Union and the European Commission on the final legislative framework for the EU’s next research and innovation programme.