EUA Statement regarding the EU budget negotiations

From the 28 October three weeks of “conciliation” talks are due to take place between both institutions with the aim of agreeing a Council/Parliament deal by mid-November. EUA believes that the cuts proposed by member states are not in line with the EU’s objective to create a competitive European knowledge society or the commitments made by member states when agreeing the EU’s multiannual financial framework (MFF) for 2020. Research and education have consistently been highlighted by EU policy makers as being crucial for Europe’s future – and were prioritised as key areas for increased investment in the MFF. Therefore EUA is deeply concerned that such cuts if implemented would not only affect European universities but also further jeopardise economic growth and job creation.