The European Union’s Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) continue to bolster research and innovation in the Western Balkans (WB) through extensive funding and support for researchers’ training and mobility. The MSCA, part of the EU’s Horizon Europe program, is dedicated to enhancing the skills and knowledge of researchers across borders and various sectors, making significant strides in the region.
During the Horizon 2020*, the MSCA had total of 150 participations under 81 distinct Western Balkans organisations, while funding 71 projects. The current Horizon Europe program has already seen a 74% increase* in participation from Western Balkan organizations compared to its predecessor, showcasing a robust upward trend in regional involvement.
Key academic institutions like the University of Belgrade, University of Novi Sad, and the University of Niš in Serbia are leading the charge with the highest number of participations. Non-academic entities such as the Center for the Promotion of Science in Serbia and Development Solutions Associates in Albania are also actively contributing to the program’s success.
The MSCA’s inclusive approach allows a diverse range of organizations, including higher education institutions, research bodies, NGOs, public entities, and private companies, to participate and benefit from EU-funded research projects.
Professor Goran Stojanović, full professor at the Faculty of Technical Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Serbia, who coordinates several MSCA Staff Exchanges, including GaitREHub project, highlighted the program’s impact, stating, “The complex problems and challenges of today’s world require interdisciplinary, cross-sectoral and international R&D collaboration. The MSCA Staff Exchanges (SE) programme is perfectly designed in this context. If a researcher does not have access to sophisticated equipment in his or her home institution, he or she can still have access modern equipment in the host institution within the MSCA SE consortium. During secondments, researchers are exposed to different research mindsets and scientific discovery cultures. In addition, they can establish lasting links for long-term collaboration and friendship with colleagues around the world.”.
With ongoing support from the MSCA, the Western Balkans are set to continue their trajectory of growth and innovation, contributing significantly to global research and development.
MSCAdvocacy Factsheet 2024 about Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Supporting researchers’ training and mobility with Western Balkans can be seen here.
*Source: MSCAdvocacy Western Balkans factsheet Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions
