The UK has re-entered the Horizon Europe research program, the world’s largest international research and innovation initiative. Previously, the UK left Horizon Europe due to Brexit but has now rejoined, providing significant relief to the scientific community. Horizon Europe offers funding for international collaborations addressing a wide array of topics, including cancer, infectious diseases, climate change, food security, artificial intelligence, and robotics. Additionally, the UK has joined Copernicus, the Earth observation component of the European Union’s Space program, which utilizes satellite and in-situ data to monitor and benefit the environment for European citizens.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- Brexit: The UK’s withdrawal from the European Union, resulting in significant political, economic, and social changes.
- Transnational Research: Collaborative research initiatives involving multiple countries or regions to address global challenges.
- Earth Observation: The process of collecting data about the Earth’s environment from satellites and other sources to monitor changes and address various issues.
- European Space Agency (ESA): An intergovernmental organization dedicated to the exploration of space, with multiple European countries as its member states.
- European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF): An organization that provides medium-range weather forecasts for Europe and other parts of the world, contributing to meteorological research and climate studies.
