Europe is taking a bold step to strengthen its resilience and security. Through the Horizon Europe Civil Security for Society programme, over €141 million is being invested in 36 research projects.
These projects aim to tackle five key security priorities:
- Enhanced control of external borders.
- Disaster preparedness and management.
- Fighting crime and terrorism.
- Resilient infrastructure and urban environments.
- Strengthened security research and innovation.
The majority of the projects are expected to start their research by October 2025.
What will the selected projects do?
Researchers funded under Horizon Europe - Civil Security for Society come from diverse domains, combining cutting-edge science with real-world applications. What follows is just a glimpse, with a few examples of what’s coming. Explore the full list of funded projects under each of the five key security priorities above.
DEFENCEFOOD aims to develop networks to detect and prevent threats to food safety and security across Europe.
DETECTOR will be developing forensic tools and evidence standards to tackle deepfake content and support investigations.
RESCUE focuses on building robust systems for critical infrastructure and urban environments.
CustomAI for Customs Efficiency will employ artificial intelligence technologies to enhance the capabilities, efficiency, and effectiveness of customs authorities.
PENTION – Detecting Synthetic Drugs will focus on developing advanced vapour detection systems to identify and stop illicit substances.
These initiatives are designed to support the work of Europe’s law enforcement agencies, public authorities, crisis managers, and private-sector partners- who can also apply for funding under the current call. Check some of the testimonies here.
How were the projects selected?
The 36 projects have been selected from the 2024 Horizon Europe – Civil security for Society call, which opened in June 2024 and closed on 20 November 2024. In total, 433 proposals were submitted.
The selected projects received the highest marks in a peer evaluation run by the European Research Executive Agency with the help of independent experts.
More funding opportunities
There are more EU funding opportunities currently open for law enforcement authorities, crisis management organisations, public authorities, technology developers, and research institutions. Find out more and apply by 12 November 2025.
Further information
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Details
- Publication date
- 19 September 2025
- Author
- European Research Executive Agency