European Research Ministers and the Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth, Mariya Gabriel, met in Zagreb on Tuesday 4 February for a round table devoted to the revision of the European Research Area (ERA) and the concept of brain circulation (see EUROPE 12416/19).
Regarding the European Research Area, first of all, the ministers welcomed the progress made, but called, however, for the revised ERA to go even further "in building a stronger ecosystem in Europe", according to a statement by the Croatian Presidency.
A lot of work remains to be done, the Commissioner said, and she is particularly concerned that disparities between states and regions are increasing. Blaženka Divjak, Croatian Minister of Science and Education, also called for attention to be paid to providing equal opportunities for all scientists and researchers, stressing that "while talent is equally present in the Union, opportunities are not".
Another important point is the participation and inclusion of citizens in the new ERA, which Commissioner Gabriel described as "crucial". "That's why we've launched a tour of the capitals to gather their ideas", she added.
Mariya Gabriel announced to the press that the Commission would unveil this year its plan to "relaunch and revitalise the ERA and define the future of this vital concept".
In his opening speech, Philippe Busquin, former Commissioner for Research, Innovation and Science, who initiated the ERA, said: "I am delighted that you are studying it in depth, because it is necessary".
Both also stated that the ERA should contribute to the Green Deal. "The role of research and innovation in this area is vital. We will look at ways to invest our budget more intelligently in terms of priorities and thematic instruments", the Commissioner said.
On this subject, Mr Busquin also said he was convinced "that the quality of our researchers is an important asset".
As for brain circulation, "the cornerstone of the ERA since its inception", according to the Commissioner, the Croatian Presidency raised the issue of adjusting existing national and European instruments to achieve a balanced circulation of researchers and counterbalance the potential negative effects of brain drain. "Ministers recognized the great need for improvement and provided good examples of national practices", the press release says. (Original version in French by Agathe Cherki, intern)