Ukraine Coalition Meeting Explores Pressing Challenges and Sets Priorities

On 9 December 2025, ALLEA joined the first technical meeting of the International Coalition for Science, Research and Innovation in Ukraine, contributing perspectives from Europe’s academies and reinforcing its ongoing support for Ukrainian researchers and institutions.

ALLEA participated in the first technical-level meeting of the International Coalition for Science, Research and Innovation in Ukraine, launched in summer 2025 by the European Commission and UNESCO, among others, to coordinate global support for Ukraine’s research and innovation system.

The meeting provided an opportunity for coalition partners to explore in depth the pressing challenges faced by researchers and innovators in Ukraine, including sustaining scientific work under wartime conditions, addressing institutional needs, and fostering brain circulation to ensure that Ukrainian talent remains connected to the national research system. Members also reviewed ongoing support actions and discussed potential next steps to strengthen collective responses.

Representing the European academies, ALLEA Director Matthias Johannsen highlighted the organisation’s longstanding commitment to supporting Ukrainian science:

“ALLEA is proud to be a member of the Coalition, representing the community of European Academies in supporting Ukrainian science and research. We are grateful to the Coalition Secretariat for the valuable insights, discussions, and strong engagement during this first technical meeting.”

Past and ongoing support

ALLEA’s support for Ukraine builds on significant past and ongoing efforts. Notably, the European Fund for Displaced Scientists (EFDS) – initiated by ALLEA thanks to a grant from the U.S. American Breakthrough Prize Foundation – has provided direct assistance to Ukrainian researchers displaced by the war, as well as those who remained in the country despite adverse conditions. In addition, ALLEA maintains close cooperation with its member, the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, ensuring that Ukrainian scientific institutions remain connected to European and global research networks.

About the Coalition

The International Coalition for Science, Research and Innovation in Ukraine brings together governments, research organisations, funding agencies, and international partners to ensure coordinated and sustained support for Ukraine’s research and innovation ecosystem during the war and throughout reconstruction.

ALLEA will continue to work closely with coalition partners and the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine to help safeguard Ukraine’s scientific capacity, strengthen collaboration, and contribute to the country’s long-term recovery and integration into the European Research Area.