Swiss National Council approves participation

Switzerland has agreed to take part in Horizon 2020. The National Council made the decision, which has been supported by the country’s opposition party, the Free Democratic Party.

The country has participated in the EU’s research and innovation Framework Programmes every year since 1987. Zurich is now expected to sign an association agreement with the European Commission to formalise the arrangements. Formal participation will allow researchers in the country to apply for funding in the various FP calls.

According to a local news report, Switzerland is particularly dependent on Horizon 2020’s research into nuclear power under the EURATOM research programme in order to assist with long-term energies supplies.