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The Science Europe Strategy 2021–2026 comes at a crucial time for European Research and Innovation (R&I).

The strategy coincides with the launch of Horizon Europe, the 9th EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation, and a renewed focus on the European Research Area (ERA). It has been developed at a time when R&I systems are being influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as by climate change and by an accelerated digital transition: these are topics that affect all areas of society. Today, science generates knowledge faster than ever before.

Enhanced cross-border collaboration and “Open Science” approaches, enabled by digital technologies, facilitate the rapid sharing of data and knowledge. Scientific activity and research methods continuously evolve. The capacity of the R&I system to address complex scientific questions, many of which require a multi-disciplinary and transdisciplinary approach, grows ever larger.

The role of science in addressing societal and global challenges – such as sustainable economic growth, education and healthcare or all, or protecting the environment – is vital, as recognised by the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. At the same time, public mistrust of science and technology grows in parts of society, while in some countries political pressure increasingly limits the freedom of research.

The European R&I system has consistently demonstrated its ability to carry out excellent science and generate new knowledge. It has also improved its capacity to transform fundamental scientific knowledge into concrete solutions, by funding and performing excellent fundamental and targeted research. To remain effective, the system needs to be nurtured with investment and policies that further support science, while respecting the freedom of scientific inquiry and helping to maintain the quality of research.

Since its creation in 2011, Science Europe has been striving for excellent European research and effective ERA policies. Areas of action include academic freedom, research ethics and integrity, access to research infrastructures, gender equality, open access, and research assessment processes.