Overview
- The European Union announced a €500 million package for 2025-2027 to attract foreign researchers, with France pledging an additional €100 million to support hosting institutions.
- French President Emmanuel Macron and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen unveiled the initiative at the Sorbonne University, emphasizing Europe's commitment to academic freedom and innovation.
- Proposed EU policies include a European Innovation Act and a Research Area Act to streamline regulations, boost venture capital, and legally enshrine scientific freedom.
- The initiative targets key fields such as health, climate, biodiversity, artificial intelligence, and space, aiming to counteract U.S. federal funding cuts and visa restrictions under President Trump.
- Programs like France's 'Safe Place for Science' and Aix-Marseille University’s recruitment efforts are already seeing increased applications from U.S. scientists.