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Improvements in implementation
The Fifth Framework Programme also introduces innovations in the
mechanisms for managing and implementing the programmes. These include:
- a greater involvement of scientists, industry, and users in
carrying out the work, in particular through the 17 groups of
experts which have been set up to assist the Commission with the
content and direction of the key actions;
- establishing a new, dynamic partnership with SMEs, in particular
by providing greater information and assistance;
- more efficient procedures.
Notice to readers
- The targeted fields of research are described succinctly in
the following pages. The complete and official content of the
R&D activities in the various programmes and key actions can
be consulted via Internet on the CORDIS
server.
- All the projects presented in this supplement have been carried
out under the Fourth Framework Programme.
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With a budget of 14.96 billion euros, the Fifth Framework Programme
consists of four thematic programmes (tackling the areas of research identified
within the key actions) and three horizontal programmes (activities involving
all areas).
In addition to the key actions, a portion of the budget is devoted to
the major challenges covered by the thematic programmes "life sciences",
"the information society", "sustainable industrial growth",
and "energy and the environment". These programmes therefore
also involve research activities of a generic nature and activities in
support of research infrastructure (see "Why Key
Actions?").
The specific role of the horizontal programmes
Three horizontal programmes cut across all the fields covered by the
key actions, providing a further dynamic, and supporting the three priorities
of Europe's S&T policy.
Confirming the international role of Community research
It is vital to ensure that European RTD activities are fully integrated
into worldwide scientific and technological exchange, and to strengthen
cooperation with the European Union's special partners. This programme
will ensure that scientific and industrial players from these countries
participate fully in all fields of thematic research of the Fifth Framework
Programme, as well as supporting their S&T infrastructures.
Promoting innovation and encouraging SME participation
Over 12000 SMEs were involved in the various projects of the Fourth
Framework Programme (1994-1998), twice as many as in the previous programme.
This growing participation by a sector that is both the leading provider
of new jobs and the prime mover of innovation in Europe is the result
of a policy of providing specific support for including SMEs in all research
activities. This programme will also pursue the policy of stimulating
the innovative capacity of European RTD by helping to create an environment
which encourages technology transfer, ensuring the availability of risk
capital, and facilitating the protection of intellectual property rights.
Improving human research potential and the socio-economic knowledge
base.
Europe's trump card is its human potential, that is the quality of
its researchers, engineers, and technicians, who, trained in national
educational and research systems, are ready to confront the reality of
increased European cooperation. This programme seeks first of all to support
the training and mobility of researchers through the Marie Curie fellowships,
the networking of laboratories, promoting scientific exchanges and developing
know-how through research, as well as improving access to major European
research installations.
Particular emphasis is placed on the research work needed to improve
understanding of the crucial problems facing a fast-changing European
society, and to evaluate and predict the impact of new technologies better.
The programme also includes a specific key action in this field (see Key
Action 23).
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Fifth
Framework Programme 
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