News

Financiën

  • Dutch Universities Sound the Alarm in Brussels: Invest in Education and Research

    Onderzoek

    The European Commission is currently preparing its proposal for the next Multi-annual Financial Framework for the period 2028–2034. During her re-election campaign, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced her ambition to place Research and Innovation (R&I) at the heart of the European economy. In a letter addressed to President von der Leyen, the Association of Universities of the Netherlands (UNL) expresses its appreciation for this pledge but also warns of the significant risks facing Europe if the new budget does not robustly support all facets of R&I. Annelien Bredenoord, President of Erasmus University Rotterdam and UNL’s EU Lead, says: "Europe is facing immense geopolitical and economic challenges. If we fail to make a full commitment to research and innovation, we will continue to lose ground to countries like China and the United States. Yet, this moment also offers a unique opportunity: throughout past crises, the EU has consistently demonstrated its value. It can do so again."

  • Universities: ‘A blow to our students and staff’

    Onderwijs

    Solid cuts to education and research in general agreement

    Today, the coalition-forming parties presented their general agreement. The cuts to education, research and innovation came as a major shock to universities. These plans will damage the future of young people and the Netherlands. Jouke de Vries, acting president of Universities of the Netherlands: ‘The cuts to education and science are a blow to our students and staff who are already under enormous pressure. Together with the sharp intervention in the international nature of universities, these cuts are harming our ability to provide quality education and carry out research. This does not match the coalition-forming parties’ ambition to strengthen the knowledge economy and earning power of the Netherlands. With these cuts, we are putting the future of our country's youth at stake.’