AI-translated. Some sections may contain inaccuracies.
At a glance
- Parliament has approved a supplementary credit for EU research programs.
- This will fund participation in EU research and innovation programs.
- Formal association is expected with the signing in November 2025.
Switzerland can once again participate in the EU Program Agreements for Research and Innovation (EUPA). In the summer session, Parliament approved a supplementary credit of CHF 666 million to make this year's mandatory contribution. The payment of this contribution enables Swiss players from research and innovation to participate in the Horizon Europe, Digital Europe and Euratom programs.
Since January 1, 2025, researchers in Switzerland have had almost unrestricted access to the calls for proposals, including as project coordinators and applicants for the prestigious funding from the European Research Council (ERC). It is particularly important for top researchers to be able to take on leadership roles in order to fully exploit their potential.
The recent decision to give Switzerland full access to calls in strategic future areas, including artificial intelligence, quantum, communication and network technologies and space-related research, as part of the ongoing validation process in Horizon Europe's 2025 work program is also particularly pleasing.
The EUPA is expected to be signed in November 2025. This will formally confirm Switzerland's provisional association to the Horizon programs with retroactive effect. Full association strengthens Switzerland as a location for research and innovation in the long term. It increases international visibility, facilitates access to top funding and makes the country more attractive to international talent. This benefits the knowledge-based economy as well as Switzerland's innovative strength as a whole.
By approving this supplementary credit, Parliament is also reaffirming its decision in principle from 2020 to participate in the 2021-2027 Horizon package and the corresponding commitment credit of CHF 6.153 billion.
However, this is only the first step. In order to secure Switzerland's international competitiveness and leading position as a location for innovation in the long term, politicians must continue to take action. A sustainable, contractually regulated partnership with the EU is needed.
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