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The programme
was suggested by the European Commission, and was passed by the
Council and by the European Parliament, in accordance with the mutual
decision procedure. Framework programmes run at least over a five
year time span. However, the last year of one framework programme
and the first year of the following one always overlap. Framework
programmes have existed since 1984. The 7th framework programme
(RP7) began on
January 1, 2007.
The Seventh
Framework Programme for research and technological development (FP7)
is the European Union's main instrument for funding research in
Europe. FP7, which applies to the years 2007-2013, is the natural
successor to the Sixth Framework Programme (FP6), and is the result
of years of consultation with the scientific community, research
and policy making institutions, and other interested parties.
Since their launch in 1984, the Framework Programmes have played
a lead role in multidisciplinary research and cooperative activities
in Europe and beyond. FP7 continues that task, and is both larger
and more comprehensive than earlier Framework Programmes. Running
from 2007 to 2013, the programme has a budget of 53.2 billion euros
over its seven-year lifespan, the largest funding allocation yet
for such programmes.
FP7 still retains the important elements of earlier Framework research
programmes. The same emphases remain on consortia of European partners,
collaboration across borders, open coordination, flexibility and
excellence of research.
The priorities in FP7 are contained within several specific programmes,
as follows: Cooperation programme, Ideas programme, People programme,
Capacities programme, Nuclear research.
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