Single European market for research and researchers: green paper

Research is undeniably at the heart of the EU's efforts to create economic growth and jobs, tackle major challenges such as climate change and energy dependency and improve the quality of life of its citizens. But although the EU has just started its biggest research programme to date, previously identified problems, such as overlapping priorities and funding or dispersed research efforts, still persist.

The Commission is scheduled to adopt a consultation document (Green Paper) that will address these and many other issues linked to the creation of a 'single European market' for research and researchers.
If Europe is to make the most of its potential, changes are needed in the way research is organised and carried out. Researchers need to be able to carry out their work wherever it is of value, and not be put off by tax, pension or social security problems. Resources should be pooled in research areas where working together will bring results more quickly and efficiently. Large-scale research facilities are best built at European, rather than national level.

The issues raised in the Green Paper go beyond research policy in the strict sense, looking at free movement of persons, international co-operation, intellectual property rights and patenting, innovation policy, equal opportunities, public procurement. The Green Paper will build upon the principles of a European Research Area laid down in 2000.

Further information: 2000 Communication on the European Research Area

                                  European Research Area website