Brussels, 21.9.2005
COM(2005) 443 final
The proposals for five specific programmes follow the Commissions proposal for a 7th Framework Programme (2007-2013) adopted on 6 April 2005. A structure was presented in terms of four main specific programmes - Cooperation, Ideas, People and Capacities - each corresponding to a major objective of European research policy; a further specific programme is for the direct actions of the Joint Research Centre. The Commission will be presenting proposals for the Rules for Participation and Dissemination that apply to the 7th Framework Programme. The policy context and objectives are those set out in the Communication Building the ERA of knowledge for growth.
To meet these objectives and implement in full the specific programmes will require a doubling of the budget as proposed by the Commission. Research, technology, education and innovation are a significant way of creating jobs in a long term and sustainable manner. They are also the key to economic growth, competitiveness, health, quality of life and the environment.
The research Framework Programme, alongside Community programmes in the areas of education and innovation, is aimed to progress towards the knowledge economy and society. The specific programmes of the 7th Framework Programme are designed to address, in combination with the necessary national and private efforts, major weaknesses in the level, quality and impact of European research.
The dissemination and transfer of knowledge is a key added value of European research actions, and measures will be taken to increase the use of results by industry, policy makers and society. Europe must invest more in research and a new emphasis is needed if the European Union is to progress towards the objective of investing 3% of its GDP in research by 2010.
The 7th Framework Programme will contribute to this, both through direct financing but also by leveraging additional public and private investments in research. Europe needs more researchers in order to increase and improve its research efforts. Alongside other actions, such as the European Charter for Researchers and national policy measures, the 7th Framework Programme is designed to stimulate more people to embark upon and pursue research careers, and once again attract leading research talent to Europe.
Financial support at a European level offers opportunities to increase the excellence and effectiveness of research which cannot be achieved at national level. The specific programmes of the 7th Framework Programme represent further consolidation of the European Research Area, achieving critical mass and structures in new areas of research and by new means, and further supporting the free movement of ideas, knowledge and researchers.