What is the Leadership of Horizon Europe?

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Horizon Europe is led and managed by the European Commission, specifically the Directorate-General for Research and Innovation (DG RTD).


Leadership and Governance of Horizon Europe

Role of the European Commission

  • The European Commission, as the executive branch of the European Union, is responsible for proposing and implementing Horizon Europe.
  • It plays a pivotal role in overseeing the strategic planning and execution of Horizon Europe’s framework and work programmes.

Directorate-General for Research and Innovation (DG RTD)

  • Within the European Commission, DG RTD holds the responsibility for the overall implementation and management of Horizon Europe.
  • It acts as the central authority ensuring the smooth functioning of the Horizon Europe initiative.

Strategic Planning and Consultation

  • The strategic planning and implementation of Horizon Europe involve extensive consultation with EU member states, the European Parliament, stakeholders, and advisory groups.
  • This inclusive approach ensures that Horizon Europe aligns with the broader objectives and priorities of the European Union.

Management Structure

  • Different parts of Horizon Europe are managed by various Directorates-General and Executive Agencies under the Commission’s oversight.
    • The European Research Council (ERC) is managed by the ERC Executive Agency.
    • The European Innovation Council (EIC) is managed by the European Innovation Council and SME Executive Agency (EISMEA).
    • The Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions are managed by the European Research Executive Agency.

Horizon Europe Strategic Plan

  • High-level guidance for Horizon Europe’s implementation is provided by the Horizon Europe Strategic Plan 2021-2024 adopted by the European Commission.
  • This strategic plan serves as a roadmap, outlining the overarching objectives and priorities of Horizon Europe.

In summary, while various bodies are involved in the management and implementation of Horizon Europe, the European Commission, particularly DG RTD, plays a central role in providing political leadership and strategic direction across the EU.

What is Directorate-General for Research and Innovation (DG RTD)?

The Directorate-General for Research and Innovation (DG RTD) is a department of the European Commission responsible for the European Union’s research and innovation policy and coordination of research and innovation activities.

Key Points

  • DG RTD defines and implements the EU’s research and innovation (R&I) policy to achieve the goals of the Europe 2020 strategy and its Innovation Union flagship initiative.1
  • Its mission is to make Europe a better place by developing and implementing R&I policies to improve competitiveness, boost growth, create jobs, and tackle societal challenges.
  • DG RTD contributes to the European Semester by analysing national R&I policies, assessing strengths and weaknesses, and formulating recommendations.
  • It monitors and contributes to the realisation of the Innovation Union and the completion of the European Research Area.
  • DG RTD funds research and innovation through Framework Programmes like Horizon 2020, taking a strategic programming approach.
  • It is responsible for EU policy on research, science and innovation to help create growth, jobs and address societal challenges.234
  • DG RTD develops and carries out the Commission’s policies related to research and innovation, manages the EU’s research programmes, and promotes public understanding of science.5

The Directorate-General plays a crucial role in shaping and implementing the EU’s research and innovation agenda, fostering competitiveness, growth, and addressing societal challenges through strategic funding and policy initiatives.

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