Designing the research landscape for the next generation is a key component of maintaining a vibrant scientific community. The demands are wide and varied and careful planning is required. To enhance any plan's effectiveness, it is essential to secure participation from diverse stakeholders involved in science, technology, and innovation and to reflect a broad range of opinions. The Japanese government is currently reviewing its next Science and Technology Innovation Basic Plan, covering the five-year period from fiscal year 2026 to fiscal year 2030. To help prepare the ground, the Cabinet Office has visited annual science meetings for academic societies, including Earth and planetary sciences, creating opportunities to solicit opinions from scientists, particularly early career scientists (ECS) and students. Among the ECSs' opinions, what stood out most was the repeated comment from students that "existing grants alone are insufficient to make ends meet." It is urgent to formulate effective policies that attract students and EC people to the research field, not only by inspiring them to become scientists, but also by providing clear and diverse career paths. This Union Session provides an opportunity to examine the current state of science and technology policy and budgets in communities around the world with particular focus on Japan, the USA and JpGU partner regions in Europe and Asia. There will also be a panel discussion section where questions will be taken from the audience.

Designing the research landscape for the next generation is a key component of maintaining a vibrant scientific community. The demands are wide and varied and careful planning is required. To enhance any plan's effectiveness, it is essential to secure participation from diverse stakeholders involved in science, technology, and innovation and to reflect a broad range of opinions. The Japanese government is currently reviewing its next Science and Technology Innovation Basic Plan, covering the five-year period from fiscal year 2026 to fiscal year 2030. To help prepare the ground, the Cabinet Office has visited annual science meetings for academic societies, including Earth and planetary sciences, creating opportunities to solicit opinions from scientists, particularly early career scientists (ECS) and students. Among the ECSs' opinions, what stood out most was the repeated comment from students that "existing grants alone are insufficient to make ends meet." It is urgent to formulate effective policies that attract students and EC people to the research field, not only by inspiring them to become scientists, but also by providing clear and diverse career paths. This Union Session provides an opportunity to examine the current state of science and technology policy and budgets in communities around the world with particular focus on Japan, the USA and JpGU partner regions in Europe and Asia. There will also be a panel discussion section where questions will be taken from the audience.