In July 2024, Canada officially joined Horizon Europe, the European Union’s flagship funding programme dedicated to research and innovation. This monumental agreement was signified by a joint signing ceremony involving Iliana Ivanova, the Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth, and François-Philippe Champagne, Canada’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry. This development not only opens new avenues for Canadian researchers, but it also reinforces Canada’s long-standing strategic partnership with the EU, which has evolved since the late 1950s.
Under the Horizon Europe programme, Canada is associated with Pillar II, which focuses on “Global challenges and European industrial competitiveness.” This pillar specifically addresses complex societal challenges and bolsters technological and industrial capacities through six dedicated clusters. The goal is to tackle some of the most pressing global issues while aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aimed at improving lives and protecting the planet.
Horizon Europe stands unrivaled as the largest and most inclusive research and innovation programme worldwide. According to Thomas Regnier, the European Commission Spokesperson, the association of non-EU countries like Canada strengthens the EU’s commitment to openness and collaboration. It creates a platform for Canadian and EU entities to join forces in funding and executing transformative projects that can lead to significant advancements in technology and societal improvement.
The mutually beneficial nature of this agreement cannot be understated. By participating in Horizon Europe, Canada gains access to a wealth of opportunities that facilitate collaboration with some of the world’s leading researchers and institutions. This collaboration is paramount, especially when addressing global challenges such as climate change, health crises, and technological innovation where cross-border partnerships can lead to groundbreaking solutions.
The strategic partnership between Canada and the EU also extends beyond Horizon Europe. The announcement at the Canada-EU Summit on November 24, 2023, introduced the EU-Canada Green Alliance and the EU-Canada Digital Partnership, both rich in research and innovation opportunities. The Green Alliance emphasizes shared commitments to environmental sustainability and tackling climate change, while the Digital Partnership aims to fuel advancements in digital technologies—both vital for progressive economies in the modern landscape.
The implications of Canada’s association with Horizon Europe go beyond research and development; they are intricately linked to broader geopolitical considerations. The collaborative effort helps reinforce a rules-based international order, founded on shared democratic values and commitments to peace, security, and trade. In an era marked by geopolitical uncertainties, strengthening ties with alliance partners like Canada can provide stability and mutual advantages in research and beyond.
Moreover, this new framework allows Canada to collaborate on research that spans a diverse array of sectors, including health, bioeconomy, artificial intelligence (AI), and quantum technologies. Given Canada’s strong reputation in these areas, this partnership opens doors for improved co-operation in research and innovation. This means Canadian entities can not only participate but also take leadership roles in research consortia with top-tier institutions globally.
Another critical aspect of this association is the reciprocal openness principle embedded in the agreements. Canada is encouraged to extend its research and innovation funding programmes to allow participation from EU-based entities, enhancing the diversity and reach of research initiatives. This creates a rich ecosystem where ideas can flourish, and innovative solutions can be rapidly developed and implemented.
As both regions face complex global challenges, the convergence of Canada’s and the EU’s expertise in various sectors provides a unique advantage. For instance, the EU’s advanced capabilities in health research combined with Canada’s expertise in biotechnology can lead to pioneering treatments and health solutions benefiting populations on both sides of the Atlantic. This partnership can be particularly impactful in the context of recent global health crises, emphasizing the necessity for collaborative approaches.
Additionally, the integration of Canadian researchers into global consortia under Horizon Europe will facilitate greater researcher mobility, allowing talents from both Canada and the EU to share experiences, methodologies, and best practices. This is not just beneficial for academic growth, but it also enhances the capacity for innovation across borders.
The announcement of Canada’s association to Horizon Europe heralds an exciting chapter for both Canadian and European research communities. With significant implications for global collaboration in addressing urgent challenges, this partnership is poised to usher in solutions that could lead to transformative changes in our societies.
In conclusion, Canada’s inclusion in Horizon Europe is more than just an addition to a funding programme; it is a strategic advancement towards a more collaborative research environment that promises to unlock new innovations and foster a spirit of teamwork across borders.
