This Week in Higher Ed — Brussels (#12, 2026)
Committee opinions on Horizon Europe 2028–34; AGRI draft on budget tracking; CONT delegation reviews EU funds in Malta; Parliament rapporteur visits Moldova.
March 29, 2026 to April 04, 2026
Committee opinions on Horizon Europe 2028–34; AGRI draft on budget tracking; CONT delegation reviews EU funds in Malta; Parliament rapporteur visits Moldova.
📋 In This Week's Newsletter
• 🤝 EU Council
• ✒️ EP Committee Work
• 📚 What We're Reading This Week
EU Council
Competitiveness Ministers Hold Informal Meeting on Research
Competitiveness ministers convened via video conference on 31 March 2026 for an informal meeting focused on research policy. The agenda covered ongoing EU actions to enhance competitiveness, industry and research policy, and the Union’s role in global trade. Discussions also addressed the impact of Russia's war against Ukraine and priorities for research and innovation under the current Council presidency.
EP Committee Work
CONT Opinion: Horizon Europe 2028–34—Budgetary Control Committee Adopts Amendments
On 31 March 2026, the Committee on Budgetary Control (CONT) adopted its opinion on the proposal for a regulation establishing Horizon Europe for 2028–2034 and repealing Regulation (EU) 2021/695 (Rapporteur: Olivier Chastel, PE784.221v02-00). The opinion introduces amendments focused on financial transparency, risk management, and simplification of access for SMEs and regional universities. CONT calls for annual Commission reporting on administrative cost savings, streamlined participation rules, and independent evaluations of impact. The opinion, adopted by 22 votes in favour and 7 abstentions, will be forwarded to the lead committee (ITRE).
CULT Opinion: Culture and Education Committee Proposes Changes for Horizon Europe 2028–34
On 30 March 2026, the Committee on Culture and Education (CULT) adopted its opinion (Rapporteur: Laurence Farreng, PE782.406v02-00) on the proposed regulation for Horizon Europe 2028–2034. The opinion advocates for the integration of cultural and creative sectors, enhanced support for European Universities Alliances, and greater emphasis on academic freedom and scientific excellence. CULT also proposes stronger links between research, education, and innovation, as well as dedicated funding for collaborative research addressing societal and cultural challenges.
AGRI Draft Opinion: Budget Expenditure Tracking and Performance Framework Regulation
On 31 March 2026, the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development (AGRI) published its draft opinion (Rapporteur: Maria Noichl, PE786.845v01-00) on the proposal for a regulation establishing a budget expenditure tracking and performance framework for Union programmes (COM(2025)0545). The draft opinion calls for a more granular five-step system of climate coefficients, the reinstatement of impact indicators for the Common Agricultural Policy, and stricter action plans for Member States falling short of spending targets. AGRI also seeks increased transparency regarding land ownership and proposes a 50% spending target encompassing climate, environment, and biodiversity objectives.
CONT Delegation Concludes Oversight Visit to Malta
On 2 April 2026, the Committee on Budgetary Control (CONT) concluded a delegation visit to Malta, led by Tomáš Zdechovský (EPP, CZ). The delegation reviewed the implementation and oversight of EU funds, meeting with Minister for European Funds Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi, the Audit Authority, civil society, and the EU Agency for Asylum (EUAA). The review covered audit methodologies, compliance measures, and recent steps taken to address concerns following the postponement and subsequent granting of discharge to the EUAA. The delegation noted constructive engagement but identified the need for continued improvements in transparency and accountability.
What We're Reading This Week
- EU F&T Portal: Researchers and innovators can now access streamlined EU funding applications and project management through the updated Funding & Tenders Portal.
- From funding to freedom: new global realities and smart EU tech initiatives are flipping the script on researcher mobility: Evolving global policies and targeted EU tech programs are reshaping how and where researchers pursue their careers.
- EU F&T Portal: EU launches centralized portal to streamline funding and tender opportunities for businesses, researchers, and public sector organizations.
- 13.4 National reforms in higher education: Major policy changes are reshaping higher education systems, impacting university governance, funding, and academic standards nationwide.
- 13.4 National reforms in higher education: Sweeping national reforms are reshaping higher education policies, curricula, and institutional governance across the country.
