Science and innovation are central to the freedom and resilience of the European Union (EU). They promote the economy and prosperity, generate independent critical thinking and reflection and thus strengthen vibrant and resilient democracies. The national academies of sciences and humanities of the EU member states emphasise this in an open letter. In the run-up to the European elections, they are addressing the candidates for the 2024 European Parliament elections to advocate for a robust, open and free science system in the EU.