Policy and strategy
This cluster aims to strengthen European democratic values, including rule of law and fundamental rights, safeguarding our cultural heritage, and promoting socio-economic transformations that contribute to inclusion and growth.
The expected impacts of this cluster are contained in the Horizon Europe strategic plan.
Areas of intervention
- democracy
- cultural heritage
- social and economic transformations
Policy information
Apply for funding
All funding information and details on how to apply are on the Funding and Tenders portal
Work programme
Funding opportunities under Horizon Europe are set out in multiannual work programmes, which cover the large majority of support available.
2026-27
2025
2023 - 25
Documents
Geopolitical instability, economic transformation and climate change are some key drivers reshaping the way people live, work, and participate in society. Some global societal challenges caused by these transformations are visible in Europe, such as rising social and economic inequalities, demographic pressure, declining trust in democratic institutions, climate-related threats to cultural heritage or maintaining the competitiveness of cultural and creative industries (CCIs). Cluster 2 of Horizon Europe supports research and innovation to strengthen democracy in Europe and beyond, promote inclusive and culturally rich societies, and help them adapt to the major social transformations of our time.