The EU’s Seventh Framework Programme (FP7) has now been given green light: it was approved by both the European Parliament in November and the Environment Council in December. With this, the Programme will become operational from 1^st January 2007, and last until 2013. FP7 is equipped with an increased budget of 54.6 billion Euros, out of which, more than 50.5 billion will go to research and technological development (the remaining amount is designated for nuclear research activities, i.e. Euratom). After the Common Agricultural Policy and structural funds, FP7 is EU's largest financial instrument. The new Framework Programme will be divided into four specific programmes: cooperation, ideas, people and capacities (for more about FP7 components and characteristics, see ACA Newsletter – Education Europe, August and September 2006). The announcement of the first call for proposals under FP7 is planned for 22 December. A number of FP7-related events are already scheduled for January 2007 and beyond. Council Press Release FP 7
Council Conclusions Environment Council
FP 7 website
Finland EU Presidency website
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