No Europe without investment in education, research and innovation
23 June 2026
Gathered in Granada, the Rectors, Presidents, Vice-Chancellors, senior leaders and academic communities of the 42 Coimbra Group leading European research- and education-intensive civic universities address the heads of state and government of the EU Member States with an urgent strategic message.
At a moment of profound geopolitical uncertainty, economic transformation and increasing pressure on democratic systems, Europe’s long-term strength depends on its capacity to remain resilient, competitive and united. This strength is built first and foremost through sustained investment in education, research, and innovation.
We are therefore deeply concerned by EU Member States’ proposed reductions to Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe budgets for 2028-2034, and to the new European Competitiveness Fund (ECF), compared to the Commission’s proposal.
Erasmus+ is a cornerstone of Europe’s cohesion and democratic resilience. It cultivates generations of citizens equipped with shared values, mutual trust and commitment to the European project. At a time when Europe’s democratic fabric faces growing challenges, underinvestment in this programme would undermine its impact. Now more than ever, EU Member States should reaffirm and strengthen this flagship programme.
Likewise, ambitious investment in research and innovation through Horizon Europe and ECF is indispensable. Europe’s long-term resilience, competitiveness and strategic autonomy depend on its ability to generate knowledge, retain and attract talent, and translate excellent curiosity-driven research into innovation. By enabling Europe to lead in science, drive technological sovereignty and respond effectively to global challenges, these instruments are strategic assets for Europe’s future.
Universities play a central role in this ecosystem. They educate future generations, advance knowledge and act as bridges between societies, economies and cultures. Europe does not need passive actors. It needs committed citizens who contribute actively to its future. Universities are the engine of such engagement.
We, the 42 Universities of the Coimbra Group, therefore call on EU heads of state and government to take a clear and strategic decision: to safeguard and strengthen investment in education, research and innovation as core pillars of Europe’s resilience and prosperity. This is not a sectoral claim. It is a choice about Europe’s place in the world, its capacity to withstand crises and its ambition to lead.