ENACT Flash Report 24 FCT Research & Innovation Landscape - Country Profile - France

This country profile demonstrates how France plays a leading role in the FCT domain, ranking amongst the top beneficiaries of Horizon Europe funding, with approximately 11.4% of the total allocated budget. French stakeholders are highly engaged in cross-sector projects, frequently assuming coordination responsibilities or leading key work packages.

A distinctive feature of France’s participation is the role of the Police Nationale and Gendarmerie Nationale, two key actors in many EU-funded security projects. Their involvement ensures a strong alignment between research activities and real-world law enforcement needs, particularly in areas such as Internal Security, Crisis Management, and the Protection of Public Spaces. Furthermore, a broad ecosystem of public research institutions, governmental bodies, and industrial partners contributes to the national effort.

France’s research and innovation community is actively involved across a wide range of FCT priorities, including Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Border Management, and Digital Transformation. Beyond technological development, French actors also play a significant role in shaping regulatory frameworks and promoting the exchange of best practices, particularly in law enforcement and judicial cooperation.

Overall, France shows strong participation in Horizon Europe, with representatives in over half of FCT-funded projects, particularly in activities related to the dark web and cryptocurrencies, the trafficking of humans and goods, and strong support for training and exercises.

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