The European Union has launched an initiative to attract scientists and researchers to Europe by offering grants and new policy plans, following the freeze on U.S. government funding linked to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives by the Trump administration.
French President Emmanuel Macron expressed disbelief at the cancellation of research programs that included diversity initiatives, stating that such actions were unimaginable in the past.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced a “super grant” program that aims to make Europe a magnet for researchers, with a budget of 500 million euros ($566 million) allocated for 2025-2027.
The EU plans to enshrine freedom of scientific research into law and will not compromise on its principles, according to von der Leyen.
Macron revealed that the French government will propose new measures to enhance investment in science and research.
In response to the funding cuts in the U.S., more than 380 grant projects, including those focusing on diversity in science, technology, and engineering, were terminated, leading to protests by scientists and researchers.
Von der Leyen emphasized the importance of diversity in science and condemned any attempts to undermine free and open research, calling it a “gigantic miscalculation.”
The EU’s efforts to attract researchers align with its strategy to promote trade deals with other countries and address obstacles faced by scientists, such as bureaucratic red tape and access to businesses.
Both Macron and von der Leyen emphasized the need for Europe to become a sanctuary for scientists and researchers, inviting those who value freedom to contribute to research and investment in the region.
Lorne Cook reported from Brussels.
