Missions and diplomacy on the R&D radar as Spain takes charge

University leaders seek progress on major EU research policy areas during Spain’s Council presidency

Research diplomacy and the controversial missions programme have emerged as top concerns of European university leaders as the Spanish government takes over the running of the Council of the EU.

Council presidencies chair the EU-related work of the bloc’s governments. They set priorities for important research-related policy, although they coordinate in groups of three and sometimes take their cues from the European Commission.