The sixth Euratom framework programme 2003-2006: a driving force for the construction of the Nuclear European Research Area

In conclusion, amongst the stakeholders there seems to be a wide consensus about needs and instruments but a real common vision about a EU nuclear research strategy is still lacking. As a result, it is felt that European research in nuclear fission is still too much fragmented across Europe. It has not yet reached the “critical mass” necessary to levy the governmental and industrial resources needed to face all challenges posed by an ageing nuclear power park and its renewal by the year 2015 (estimated end of lifetime).