Shaping the Future of European Research: The ERA’s Legacy & Vision

Imagine a Europe where researchers move freely across borders, innovation knows no boundaries, and science unites nations to solve shared challenges.

That’s the vision behind the European Research Area (ERA) — a bold initiative launched in 2000 to create a single, unified research landscape across the continent.

Over the past two decades, the ERA has transformed the way research and innovation operate in Europe. By fostering collaboration and breaking down barriers between national research systems, it has become a cornerstone of European scientific progress.

🔬 ERA's Key Achievements

Since its inception, the ERA has delivered significant milestones that continue to shape the research and innovation ecosystem:

• Strengthened cooperation between EU member states on research and innovation priorities.

• Boosted mobility for researchers, making it easier to work and collaborate across borders.

• Increased investment in research and development, both public and private.

• Expanded global partnerships to tackle pressing international challenges, from climate change to health crises.

These efforts have created a more connected, resilient, and dynamic European research environment.

🌱 Looking Ahead: The ERA’s Evolving Role

As Europe moves forward, the ERA is evolving to meet new demands—particularly the green and digital transitions. The focus is now on making research:

• More open: Promoting open science practices and broader access to knowledge.

• More inclusive: Ensuring diversity and equal opportunities across research communities.

• More impactful: Aligning research efforts with societal needs and global goals.

This renewed vision underscores the ERA’s critical role in driving innovation that benefits all Europeans—and the world.

🔗 Read the full article here

💬 Join the Conversation on Europe’s Research Future

Curious about where the ERA is heading next? Don’t miss the chance to be part of the discussion! Join us for the EU Centralised Actions Network event:

📍 Université libre de Bruxelles
📅 April 24–25
🤝 Connect with leading researchers, experts, and policymakers shaping the next era of EU collaboration.

🎟️ Register now to secure your spot and contribute to the future of European research.