French President Emmanuel Macron and European Union (EU) Commission President Ursula von der Leyen launched a strategic campaign Monday to lure American scientists to Europe, citing concerns over U.S. science policies under President Donald Trump. The “Choose Europe for Science” conference in Paris aims to attract U.S. researchers with a €500 million ($567 million) EU incentive package and national programs like France’s “Safe Place for Science.”
Von der Leyen emphasized Europe’s investment in research, stating, “We are choosing to put research and innovation, science and technology, at the heart of our economy.” She announced that the EU would spend half a billion euros between 2025 and 2027 to draw international researchers, and urged member states to commit 3% of GDP to research by 2030.
Macron doubled down on the pitch with a direct appeal: “If you love freedom, come and do your research here.” He criticized the Trump administration’s science restrictions, calling them a “diktat” and “an error.”
“Science is an investment – and we need to offer the right incentives,” von der Leyen said. Macron’s remarks reflect a broader European effort to reposition the continent as a global hub for academic freedom and scientific advancement. CNRS, France’s premier research institution, has already seen a surge in interest from U.S. scientists.
Despite the allure of academic liberty and social benefits, experts caution that Europe still trails the U.S. in research pay and funding levels. Yet Macron’s office maintains that lower living costs and quality infrastructure will offset these disparities.
