In 2026, one of Europe's most ambitious scientific ventures, Horizon Europe, a seven-year, roughly €93 billion framework dedicated to research and innovation, underwent a quiet but significant transformation. What had once been an open invitation to researchers across the globe now carries a more guarded tenor. In critical areas such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and quantum computing, the European Union has begun to reassess its collaboration with China, reflecting growing concerns over technology transfer and national security.
Strategic Shift Amid Geopolitical Tensions
The shift marks a pivotal moment in EU-China research relations, as the bloc grapples with increasing geopolitical friction. European officials have highlighted the need to protect sensitive technologies and maintain strategic autonomy, particularly in sectors deemed critical for future competitiveness and security. This strategic rebalancing is not a complete severing of ties, but rather a more selective and controlled approach to international partnerships.
Implications for Future Collaboration
While the EU continues to value global research collaboration, the new framework emphasizes stricter oversight and risk assessment for projects involving Chinese entities. Experts suggest that this move is part of a broader effort to safeguard European technological sovereignty without entirely isolating the bloc from global innovation networks. However, the long-term impact remains to be seen, as the delicate balance between cooperation and competition continues to evolve.
The transformation of Horizon Europe's approach to China underscores the EU's growing recognition that research partnerships must be strategically managed in an increasingly complex global landscape.