Most SAFE researchers have now signed contracts with their host institutions and have started their fellowships across the EU. During this initial phase, the SAFE consortium organised a webinar for host institutions to support peer exchange and share recommendations on researchers’ integration.
On 29 October 2025, a workshop was held in Rome as part of the SAFE consortium meeting, bringing together project partners and Italian stakeholders working on academic freedom. Discussions focused on experiences of hosting researchers at risk, administrative challenges, and the need for simplified procedures, clearer guidelines, and stronger coordination among European programmes. Participants also highlighted the importance of sustainable support beyond the fellowship period.
Other Relevant Developments
In October 2025, the European Commission released a starter kit for EU-funded research and innovation projects and published a report on promoting and protecting scientific freedom in Europe. The first MSCA “Choose Europe for Science” call was also launched, with results expected in May 2026.
SAFE partners contributed to the Council of Europe conference Academic Freedom in Action in Strasbourg and announced new initiatives, including UNIMED’s H-Gaza Research Horizons for Gaza project starting in January 2026.
Several programmes supporting researchers and students at risk remain open, including the DAAD Hilde Domin Programme, the Philipp Schwartz-Initiative, EURAXESS mentoring, and the IIE Scholar Rescue Fund.