The Sixth Framework Program

The Framework Program (FP) is the European Union’s main instrument for funding research in Europe. Six Framework Programs (FPs) have been implemented since 1984, each covering a period of five years with the last year of one FP and the first year of the following FP overlapping. Past FPs have helped to develop a culture of scientific and technological co-operation between different EU countries and they have been instrumental in achieving good research results. The current sixth FP (FP6) aims to contribute to the creation of a true “European Research Area” (ERA). ERA is a vision for the future of research in Europe, an internal market for science and technology. It fosters scientific excellence, competitiveness and innovation through the promotion of better co-operation and coordination between relevant actors at all levels. The biggest part of FP budget will be spent on focussing and integrating future research activities on seven thematic priority areas such as Food Quality and Safety.