How the policy support facility supports the multi-level governance of the European research area

Research and Innovation (R&I) governance involves the procedures that manage R&I activities to align research goals with strategic objectives, ensure efficient resource allocation and facilitate collaboration. The concept of the European Research Area (ERA) follows the ambition to create a single, open market for research, innovation and technology across the European Union by aligning and coordinating Member States and EU Research & Innovation policies to foster innovation and enhance Europe's international competitiveness. Cooperation between the European Commission and Member States facilitates the alignment between national R&I policies and the broader European agenda and helps avoid overlapping efforts. At the heart of this framework, the ways to coordinate policies are designed to improve consistency, ensure the efficient use of resources, and achieve strategic solutions to societal challenges. As one of the key components of ERA,3 the 2021 'Pact for Research and Innovation in Europe' outlines the long-term priority areas for joint action: deepening a functioning internal market for knowledge, realising the green and digital transition, amplifying access to R&I excellence and advancing joint R&I investments and reforms. The ERA Policy Agenda 2022-2024 lists 20 voluntary but concrete actions turning these priorities into specific activities over three years with tangible outcomes. Actions include promoting the European Open Science Cloud, reforming research assessment, or strengthening research activities. The Council of the EU negotiates and adopts the ERA Policy Agenda. The European Research Area and Innovation Committee provide high-level strategic advice, and finally the ERA Forum forms an expert group for implementing the ERA Policy Agenda