On 16 July, the European Commission published its proposal for the 2028 to 2034 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), introducing key structural changes to EU funding for health and research.
The proposal includes the creation of a new European Competitiveness Fund (ECF), which would consolidate 14 separate funding programmes, including EU4Health, into a streamlined €410 billion instrument. The fund is designed to enhance Europe’s strategic autonomy and global competitiveness, with a dedicated window focused on Health, Biotech, Bioeconomy and Resilience.
The ECF will be structured around four main policy windows:
- Clean Transition and Industrial Decarbonisation
- Digital Leadership
- Health, Biotech and Bioeconomy and Resilience
- Defence and Space
A key concern for the health research community is the proposed integration of EU4Health, which could impact the visibility and prioritisation of health initiatives within the new framework.
On a positive note, Horizon Europe will remain a self-standing programme with a proposed budget of €175 billion. It will continue to support excellence in science, including health and medical research, while aligning more closely with the European Union’s industrial and competitiveness objectives.
Horizon Europe is structured around four key pillars:
- A first pillar dedicated to excellent science
- A second pillar focused on competitiveness and society, including Health, Biotech, Agriculture and Bioeconomy, as well as EU missions
- A third pillar on digital leadership
- A fourth pillar on the European Research Area
The proposed allocation of €131 billion for defence highlights a significant shift in EU priorities. This reinforces the need for strong advocacy from the medical research community to ensure continued support for health research, particularly in medical imaging and biotechnology.
The plan also introduces a Single Rulebook to harmonise rules across funding schemes and reduce administrative burdens. A Strategic Stakeholder Board will be created to advise on priorities and guide the governance of the new fund.
EIBIR will continue to monitor these developments and actively engage with stakeholders to represent the interests of the imaging research community.
📄 Read the full legislative proposal here.