(fra Kommisjonens rapport 27.2.2026)

The Communication on the Global Approach to Research and Innovation (R&I) 1 was adopted in May 2021, at a time when the world was considerably different from what it is today. Still, its broad objectives and principles remain valid, such as defending and promoting fundamental R&I values, working towards a level playing field and reciprocity in international R&I cooperation, tackling global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss and global health crises together, and adopting a nuanced and modulated approach to cooperating with non-EU countries and regions.

International R&I cooperation increases excellence and competitiveness, provides access to international expertise through mobility and cooperation, develops solutions to global challenges and promotes shared scientific and technical standards, thereby reducing trade barriers and increasing access to potential markets. It also builds political and diplomatic capital, and contributes to the EU’s geopolitical objectives. Its promotion is enshrined in Article 180 (b) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union.

The EU needs to be more assertive at pursuing its strategic interests in an age of geostrategic rivalries, while strengthening its cooperation with like-minded partners 2 . The implementation of the Global Approach therefore needs to factor in both the new geopolitical realities and groundbreaking developments in science and technology. The first biennial implementation report, adopted in 2023, responded to such realities, for example by highlighting the EU support to Ukraine following the launch of Russia’s full-scale illegal invasion.

Over the past two years, the EU has taken firm steps to respond to these challenges by adopting key initiatives which aim to ensure that the EU remains at the cutting-edge of innovation and that its R&I system remains both open and secure 3 . The EU is and will continue to be the guardian of multilateralism, a rules-based international order and evidence-informed policymaking – crucial in today’s world to defend core principles of democracy, including more resilient and strong democratic societies. As the principles and values the EU stands for are increasingly under threat worldwide, more than ever before the EU must stand up for academic freedom and freedom of scientific research as well as for diversity, equity and inclusion. This includes promoting equality and non-discrimination for women as well as other groups at heightened risk of discrimination, and ensuring their full and effective participation in R&I systems. These values are not only a moral imperative, but are among the strongest assets the EU has in the global competition for talent.

This report offers an overview of the Commission’s work in implementing the Global Approach to R&I, and the related Council Conclusions 4 since the publication of the first biennial implementation report in 2023 5 . It aims to provide a snapshot of how the EU is responding to new challenges and demands in R&I in an increasingly competitive and volatile international landscape, thereby defending its strategic interests.

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