Commission proposes partial suspension of Israel in Horizon Europe

Last 28 July, the European Commission proposed to partially suspend Israel’s participation to Horizon Europe. The suspension specifically concerns the participation of entities established in Israel in activities funded under the Accelerator of the European Innovation Council (EIC).

This suspension comes as a reaction to the review Art. 2 of the EU-Israel Association Agreement. Respect for these obligations constitutes an essential part of EU-Israel cooperation under the Agreement, including for bilateral scientific and technological cooperation between the two parties.

While Israel has announced a daily humanitarian pause in Gaza fighting and has met some of its commitments under the common understanding on humanitarian aid and access, the situation remains severe.

This decision will affect the participation of Israeli entities in the EIC Accelerator, which targets start-ups and small businesses with disruptive innovations and emerging technologies that have potential dual-use applications, such as in cybersecurity, drones, and artificial intelligence.

The proposed suspension is a targeted and reversible action. It does not affect the participation of Israeli universities and researchers in collaborative projects and research activities under Horizon Europe.

Next Steps

For the Commission’s proposal to be adopted, it must receive the support of a qualified majority in the Council of the European Union.

Background

The Horizon Europe programme is the EU’s flagship research and innovation initiative, designed to drive economic growth, create jobs, and enhance citizens’ lives.

The European Union and Israel have a long-standing partnership in scientific and technological cooperation. The Association Agreement, signed in Brussels on 20 November 1995 and having entered into force in June 2000, provides the legal framework for EU-Israel relations. It establishes a regular dialogue on scientific, technological, cultural, audio-visual and social matters.

In 2021, Israel joined Horizon Europe as an associated country, allowing its researchers and organisations to participate on equal terms with EU Member States. Israel has also financially contributed for its participation to the programme.

More information: European Commission