| Country policy debates emphasise institutional reforms for STI policy governance, focusing on coherence and coordination. Funding debates centre on aligning resources with national and global priorities, while collaboration discussions highlight inclusive governance, science-industry partnerships, and the significance of international STI collaborations amidst geopolitical changes. | |
| The largest share of initiatives in this policy area addresses international policy governance. This includes a wide range of initiatives such as strategies promoting the internationalisation of research and innovation activities and bilateral research and innovation cooperation agreements. | |
| Most policies tackle the national government, as a large share of initiatives establish national strategies or plans to provide orientation or coordination to government action. Such policies also tend to involve public research organisations. | |
| Strategies cover a wide range of national issues, often overlapping into other policy areas such as public research system and innovation in firms and innovative entrepreneurship. Common topics in strategies include research infrastructures, smart specialisation and social challenges. |
As part of their response to the 2023 EC-OECD STIP survey, countries indicated the main policy debates around the Governance of national STI policy (raw data included below in Annex A). The following debates figured prominently in country responses:
1. Institutional reform:
2. Funding and resource allocation:
3. Collaboration and coordination in the STI ecosystem:
Figure 1 shows the number of policy initiatives reported within themes belonging to the Governance policy area. The largest number of policies address International STI governance. This set includes a wide range of initiatives varying in scope, including strategies promoting the internationalisation of research and innovation activities, bilateral research and innovation cooperation agreements, participation in multilateral initiatives, and joint infrastructures or research centres. The second most recurrent theme is STI plan or strategy, also capturing a variety of country agendas that set the national priorities for STI activities. The third most frequent theme is Strategic policy intelligence, grouping high-level expert groups or advisory councils, regulations related to evidence-based policy making, scoreboards, technology assessments and foresight exercises, among others. This theme is followed by Horizontal policy coordination (e.g. inter-ministerial councils and priority-setting mechanisms) and, lastly, Evaluation and impact assessment that captures key regulations, bodies and initiatives in charge of setting the country's overarching evaluation practices and mechanisms. In this edition of the survey, "climate change" is a recurrent keyword of Governance policies (see section on Net zero transitions).
Figure 2 indicates the frequency in which Governance policy initiatives address target groups (actors in the STI system). As it is to be expected, most policies are addressed to the National government. As shown further below, very often these initiatives establish national strategies or plans, which seek to provide orientation or coordination to government action. The next more frequently raised target groups are Public research institutes and Higher education institutes, also frequently addressed by overarching national strategies. Established researchers are relatively less often directly targeted compared to public research organisations. Firms are the most frequently targeted private actor in the STI system. Companies are addressed to similar extents regardless of their age or size, though SMEs are at times emphasised in policies. After this target group we find another private sector actor, i.e. Private research and development lab, followed by Postdocs and other early career researchers and PhD students. After public and private actors we find that a number of policies seek to involve Civil society as a whole, as is the case with Subnational government bodies (regional governance). Other target groups addressed by more than 150 initiatives include Entrepreneurs and knowledge intermediaries such as Incubators, accelerators, science parks or technoparks, Academic societies and Industry associations.
The most frequently used policy instrument is Strategies, agendas and plans (Figure 3). These strategies cover a wide range of national issues, often overlapping into other policy areas such as Public research system and Innovation in firms and innovative entrepreneurship. Keywords indicate that international cooperation, artificial intelligence and climate change are common topics covered in national strategies. Other frequent instruments include Policy intelligence (e.g. evaluations, benchmarking and forecasts), used to advance policy learning with a view of improving the design and implementation of policies or seeking to fine-tune STI governance arrangements. Horizontal STI coordination bodies are often put in place to ensure the coherence of STI policymaking by setting up mechanisms to coordinate different levels of government. Another noteworthy observation of the figure is that keywords suggest that Project grants for public research are employed to promote international research cooperation.
Governance initiatives typically do not have any budget expenditures (Figure 4). This is particularly the case for Strategies, agendas and plans, which generally aim to set priorities for public investment in STI and identify the focus of government reforms without funding any specific actions. Initiatives reporting yearly budget expenditures fall within the Less than 1M and 1M-5M ranges, often dedicated to cover operational costs of a government body or a mechanism associated to the initiative. This includes monitoring arrangements that provide scoreboards and foresights as forms of policy intelligence to inform decision-making. Initiatives with 100M EUR yearly budget expenditure or higher include highly strategic programmes funding research infrastructures and schemes addressing climate change, sustainability and societal challenges (see keywords).
Figure 5 shows that Portugal has reported the largest number of initiatives in this policy area, followed by Korea, the European Union and Brazil. The chart shows only the number of policy initiatives reported by countries and gives no indication of their scale or scope. The figure should therefore be interpreted with care. Clicking on a given bar in the chart will bring you to the corresponding country dashboard for Governance policies.
Table 1 contains the answers provided by countries (and other entities) to the following question: Briefly, what are the main ongoing issues of debate around how STI policy is governed? You may use the table's search box to filter the data by country or keyword. You may also dowload the data in Excel format.
Table 1. Policy debates in the Governance policy area
| Response | |
|---|---|
| Austria | Austria is implementing its Federal Research, Technology and Innovation (RTI) Strategy 2030, coordinated by the inter-ministerial RTI Task Force and chaired by the Federal Chancellery. The strategy is put into practice through the RTI Pact 2024-26, emphasising support for the twin transition, bolstering trust in science and democracy, championing research excellence and top talent, advancing research to meet climate targets, broadening cooperation between science and industry, advocating technological sovereignty, and encouraging openness. The budget for RTI has risen by about 31% compared to the RTI Pact 2021-23. Performance and financing agreements are concluded with all 11 central facilities in line with the Research Funding Act. These encompass financial provisions and content-specific targets for a three-year period. Before this, RTI ministries liaise with organisations to set out longer-term planning and funding arrangements. In 2023, the Federal Government introduced a government bill for the establishment of a unified Austrian Council for Research, Science, Innovation, and Technology Development. Additionally, RTI is championed in significant cross-governmental initiatives, such as the Climate and Energy Fund, the Transformation of Industry Offensive, and the Future Austria Fund. In 2022, the National European Research Area (ERA) Action Plan received approval from the Council of Ministers. This plan features key aspects pivotal to the Austrian RTI framework. The European Research Area (ERA) will be reinforced to amplify the influence of European research and innovation further. Offering attractive career paths for researchers and ensuring the swift and efficient transformation of research products into practical applications are central goals of the ERA. Austria's active involvement in the ERA will, therefore, be pursued resolutely. The RTI Pact 2021-2023, crafted to execute the RTI strategy, anticipates the creation of an "Austrian Action Plan for the European Research Area" as a tangible step. |
| Belgium - Brussels Capital | The Brussels-Capital Region (BCR) has proposed its new Regional Innovation Strategy for the 2021-27 period. The strategy builds upon the region's strengths, competitive edges, and economic potential. Its formulation and execution are an ex-ante condition stipulated by the European Commission, in line with the new European Regional Development Fund programming period of 2021-27. Indeed, the smart specialisation strategy, developed within this plan, takes centre stage in the industrial transition, incorporating facets such as skills, digitalisation, and the green transition. Founded on a broad consultation of civil society and the innovation ecosystem, complemented by an in-depth analysis of the region's socio-economic landscape, the Regional Innovation Strategy has spotlighted six strategic innovation domains: digital technology, climate-resilient infrastructure, optimal use of resources, urban flows, health, and social innovation. This strategy is propelled by a firm commitment to involve citizens in the governance of Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI), and to confront environmental, social, and economic challenges through innovation. Various pathways towards a low-carbon, circular, and inclusive economy will receive substantial attention and consideration, including creating support schemes for social entrepreneurship. This ambitious strategy will be supplemented by a new regional artificial intelligence (AI) strategy, devised to cultivate an AI ecosystem capable of addressing environmental and social challenges. |
| Belgium - Federal government | In October 2022, the State Secretary in charge of science policy published his General Policy Note. Several changes are envisaged: the reform of research programmes that are concluding, the development of centres of excellence, an increase in investments in the field of energy transition, and, finally, improved monitoring and evaluation of the Research and Innovation (R&I) system. The Belgian Science Policy Office has created a new Strategic Plan, valid for the period of 2022-2024. The strategic objectives related to the Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) policy focus, among other things, on: the development of a novel approach to engaging the public as stakeholders in the research and development activities of the 11 federal scientific institutions; a commitment to an open data and open science strategy to facilitate access to information and science, stimulate the re-use of research data produced by researchers, and strengthen their collaborations; and lastly, the adoption of a cross-functional research strategy, centred on finding synergies, to respond effectively to societal and governmental priorities, as well as to strengthen support for R&I. As part of its European Presidency, from 1st January to 30th June 2024, the Belgian state plans to organise an event focused on research and innovation. Belgium faces the challenge to develop more joined-up strategies across its different authorities and communities. In addition, there are added barriers to launching multi-disciplinary and multi-stakeholder research initiatives, due to the Federal Government's responsibility for thematic research programmes, institutes and initiatives allocated across multiple Federal Public Services (e.g. health, nuclear research and environmental research). A good example is the creation a 'Centre of Excellence for Climate Research' will support the development of a more coordinated research effort on climate-related topics in order to enhance synergies between the Federal Scientific Institutes, universities and regional research institutes and to provide input to the development of climate policy initiatives in Belgium. In a country where responsibilities are so fragmented, it will also important to achieve a coherent digitalisation policy across relevant societal and economic domains. Regional debates are reported in a specific STIP COMPASS questionnaire. Very shortly : for Flanders, a big focus is done on Artificial Intelligence policy which has to strengthen Flemish competitiveness by boosting the uptake of AI-technologies by enterprises, reinforces Flanders' strong research base in this area and improves the framework conditions for taking up AI by focusing on ethical and legal aspects, as well as competences and skill development. Wallonia will focus on the broadening of R&D and innovation activities to a larger number of SMEs and the development of multidisciplinary approaches. A greater emphasis will be also placed on performance contracts and by funding the delivery of services by the clusters or other business and innovation support organisations. Brussels has developed 4 strategic innovation areas (SIA's) : Climate: Resilient Buildings & Infrastructure; Resource Optimisation; Efficient & Sustainable Urban Flows for Inclusive Urban Space Management; Health & Personalised and Integrated Care; and Social Innovation, Public Innovation, and Social Inclusion. Wallonia/Bxl Federation : concentrates its efforts on the creation of the ORCS which provides the Government and the research community with data and evidence to design policies and actions. |
| Belgium - Flanders | The Minister of Economy, Science and Innovation (ESI) has introduced a new innovation model in Flanders to complement the existing excellent basic research. This model focuses on two objectives: 1. Involving citizens more actively in research and innovation (R&I) policy through the "quadruple helix" model, which entails collaboration among citizens, businesses, governments, and research institutions. The success of innovations relies on societal acceptance. 2. Providing more direction to innovation through a mission-oriented approach to innovation policy. The Minister for ESI aims to achieve two key objectives for Flanders, supported by the entire Government of Flanders: 1. Attain a top-five ranking in the European Regional Innovation Scoreboard. 2. Reach the target of investing 3% of GDP in research and development (R&D) by the end of the current term of office (3.60% of GDP was reached in 2020). The Minister for ESI shapes economic and innovation policy through six major projects: 1. Strengthening the retail sector in the digital age. 2. Industry 4.0. 3. Regional smart specialisation focused on the "digital" and "green" transitions. 4. Promoting digital entrepreneurship and innovation. 5. Encouraging climate innovation. 6. Commitment to a circular economy. A significant structural change is expected in the coming years. The current policy area of Economy, Science & Innovation will merge with the policy areas of Work, Social Economy, Agriculture, and Fisheries starting from January 1, 2024. The Flemish policy areas consist of departments (ministries) and agencies. The departments of Economy, Science, and Innovation, along with the department for Work and Social Economy, will be merged into a single department starting from January 1, 2025. These mergers are not expected to impact policy initiatives in the foreseeable future. |
| Belgium - Wallonia | The current energy crisis serves as a reminder of the urgency and importance of engaging in a sustainable transition, to which STI policy must contribute. However, it is also crucial to maintain a stable support framework to ensure coherent and proper development of RDI activities. Preserving support for a diverse range of strategic domains, as planned under S3, will foster the development of various skills, which are essential for Wallonia's resilience in facing future societal challenges. The operationalization of Wallonia's 2021-2027 smart specialization strategy (S3) has progressed with the definition of Strategic Innovation Initiatives (IIS). Like any new initiative, stakeholders need sufficient time to identify complementarities and specificities in order to establish fruitful collaborations. This factor is crucial for the long-term success of these partnerships. In recent years, the Walloon government has taken action to simplify and improve the clarity of RDI support instruments and reform the Walloon innovation support system. These efforts should be continued. Additionally, it is vital to ensure the sustained momentum of the actions and projects supported through the Recovery Plan, while implementing an evaluation mechanism to assess their effectiveness. |
| Belgium - Wallonia-Brussels Federation | A primary issue of ongoing debate is the aspiration to harmonise the legal framework governing research careers. Therefore, the initial step necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the current situation. Subsequently, we can instigate exploratory meetings with all relevant stakeholders to identify issues (including, but not limited to, career paths and assessments) and draft potential recommendations for a more uniform framework. |
| Bosnia and Herzegovina | Strategy for Science Development of Bosnia and Herzegovina 2023-2027 is in the process of development. Bosnia and Herzegovina is an associated country to the EU Program for research and innovation Horizon Europe (2021-2027). Working group for development of Smart Specialization Strategy is established by decision of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2021. The coordinating institution for the development of the Smart Specialization Strategy in Bosnia and Herzegovina is the Directorate for Economic Planning of Bosnia and Herzegovina. So far, the quantitative analysis for the Smart Specialization Strategy has been developed, whereas preparatory activities for conducting qualitative analysis are underway. Qualitative analysis involves examining the research and innovation potential in the private and public sector, the academic community, etc. After the interviews with the relevant stakeholders, the Qualitative Analysis Report will result in a final proposal of priority areas and sub-areas with which the Entrepreneurial Discovery Process (EDP) will be launched. The Entrepreneurial Discovery Process is an integral part of the Smart Specialization Strategy development process and should begin at the end of 2023, according to the assessment of the Directorate for Economic Planning of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The government in Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, within some strategic documents, expresses its determination to support the development of research, technology and innovation, but this is still not sufficiently reflected in the allocations for these purposes. The Parliament of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina adopted the The Strategy for the Development of Science in Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina 2021-2027. Even though the work is under way, the government of RS still has not adopted the new Strategy for the development of science, technology, higher education and the information society in the Republic of Srpska for the period 2022-2028. The new strategy is being created according to the new law on strategic planning and development management of the Republic of Srpska (2021) and follows guidelines set up by the ERA priorities as well as the UNDP sustainable development goals. Therefore, until the new strategy is in place (Q3 2023), majority of the activities is still mostly based on the old STI Strategy for the 2017-2021 period. |
| Brazil | Debate on the governance of Brazil's science, technology, and innovation (STI) policy has centred around its primary challenges: (i) establishing more explicit priorities for STI efforts and funding, (ii) coordinating the plethora of STI policies and initiatives across various government bodies and agencies, and (iii) amplifying and diversifying funding sources for STI projects. Ordinance No. 5109, issued on 16 August 2021 by the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MCTI), aims to give more direction to STI efforts. It sets the priorities for STI funding from 2021 to 2023, in alignment with national planning instruments like the Pluriannual Government Plan and the Federal Development Strategy. The main focus will be on research and development (R&D) projects that encompass strategic, enabling and productive technologies, sustainable development, quality of life, and the popularisation of science. Similarly, the National Innovation Policy, adopted by Executive Order No. 10 534/2020, establishes the foundational principles and objectives, leading to the creation of the National Innovation Strategy (NIS) in July 2021. The National Innovation Policy has also introduced a new governance structure - the Innovation Chamber - which consists of 11 ministries. The MCTI serves as the executive secretariat. The Innovation Chamber bears responsibility for formulating, monitoring, evaluating, and revising the NIS and its action plans. The main discussion point, resonating with the vision regarding the role and implementation of national public policy since 2019, remains the attraction of a more significant share of private capital for STI financing, devising more efficient means of monitoring and evaluation, and improving coordination amongst diverse policies and stakeholders with shared expected impacts. The National Fund for Science and Technology Development (FNDCT) is the principal recipient of public funding. As such, the resources available from FNDCT will profoundly impact the public funding capacity for STI in the forthcoming years. Consequently, how they are used will determine the rate at which Brazil will manage its dependency on commodity exports and transition towards a knowledge economy. |
| Bulgaria | The recent rise in R&D expenditure is linked to reforms of the STI system outlined in the National Strategy for the Development of Scientific Research in the Republic of Bulgaria 2017-2030. In 2018, an Operational Plan was adopted for the execution of the initial stage of the NSRNIRB 2018-2022. This plan includes implementing the priorities of the European Research Area (ERA) in Bulgaria to bolster the evaluation of scientific and innovation policies and seek complementarity and rationalisation of European and national science and innovation instruments (Specific Objective 9). The strategy envisages three 'clusters' or groups of reforms: the establishment of a new state structure for managing research and innovation promotional instruments; bolstering scientific capacity and the effective career development of scientists along with knowledge and technology transfer; and the creation of a new efficient and sustainable financial model for institutional funding, based on achieved results aimed at enhancing cost-effectiveness and efficiency, incentivising high-quality scientific research, and encouraging cooperation and competition between scientific organisations. The legal provision for research, innovation, and technology policy will be ensured through the development and adoption of a new Law on the Promotion of Scientific Research and Innovation, which will replace the current Law on the Promotion of Scientific Research. This law will stipulate the authorities and procedure for shaping the national policy for promoting scientific research, innovation, and technological transfer. It will also regulate the role of each institution involved in the policy's creation, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation, and will lay out the funding methods. The law will lay down the principles and rules governing the financing of quality scientific research, innovation, and technology transfer. In the period from 2022 to 2023, a novel legislative framework is being drafted. The blueprint for the extent and arrangement of a fresh Research and Innovation Promotion Act was unveiled in 2022. This Act is intended to lay out the components of the country's research and innovation ecosystem, and to regulate the fundamental societal relations among its participants, thus fostering the conditions necessary for realising their full potential and enhancing the economic and social returns on investment in research and innovation. The intention is for this legislation to contribute to an expedient response to the societal and global challenges confronting Bulgarian society and to facilitate the modernisation and growth of the Bulgarian economy. The passing of this new Act is aimed at redressing the current disjointedness among different sectoral policies by proposing a mechanism for coherence in establishing and implementing a unified policy for promoting research and innovation, based on functional relationships between institutions. The Act aims to facilitate the development of a dynamic, results-driven, and efficient research system to bolster economic growth and improve the quality of life in the country, while progressively reversing the negative trends of brain drain, as well as knowledge and resource attrition. The mechanism being proposed covers the planning, implementation (inclusive of financing), monitoring, and enforcement of the shared policy. Furthermore, the new Act should address, in a balanced fashion, the contemporary trends, challenges, and needs of the innovation ecosystem, considering both existing participants and new entrants. The Act will endeavour to enhance the efficiency of research systems by championing principles of open sharing, straightforward access, and reliable re-use of data. This concept provides the foundation for a multi-stakeholder and open consultation process prior to the drafting of the Act's text. In this regard, Bulgaria is engaged as a partner in the European Commission's Whole of Government Approach in Research and Innovation (R&I) Mutual Learning Exercise, which commenced in March 2023. |
| Canada | The Government of Canada recognises the importance of investing in science and research to drive discoveries, innovation, and societal benefits. It focuses on effective coordination, strategic governance, and addressing emerging challenges. Key priorities include coordination across federal entities, strengthening the research support system, and addressing issues related to research security and governance. Effective coordination is crucial, and the government has established committees and initiatives to promote collaboration. The Standing Committee on Science and Research (SRSR) and the Canada Research Coordinating Committee (CRCC) aim to harmonise and integrate research programs and policies. The Assistant Deputy Minister and Deputy Minister Committees for science and technology provide coordination for horizontal science policy, and the Chief Science Advisor ensures government science is accessible and informs decision-making. The government is committed to examining governance across the science, technology, and innovation (STI) ecosystem. The Advisory Panel on the Federal Research Support System is reviewing the federal support system for academic research, addressing talent development, knowledge mobilization, and commercialisation. The panel has identified, among others, fragmentation across the system, with granting councils and a number of other different entities often tasked with similar but uncoordinated mandates; the need for a national strategy and an independent advisory body. The rise in foreign efforts to appropriate Canada's research highlights the need to balance research security with collaboration. The government aims to find an equilibrium that ensures appropriate security measures without hindering open and collaborative research. Dialogue between government organisations and the research community is crucial in developing effective security measures. The government has made significant investments in science and research, providing over CAD $14 billion since 2016. National strategies on artificial intelligence, quantum, and genomics have been developed to strengthen research capabilities. In the health sector, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) are working on a long-term strategy to support clinical trials research, training, and infrastructure. Overall, the Government of Canada is committed to strategic governance, effective coordination, and addressing emerging challenges to advance critical research priorities and ensure Canada's competitiveness in the global landscape of science and innovation. |
| Chile | Five years have elapsed since the establishment of the Ministry of Science, Technology, Knowledge and Innovation (MSTKI). Currently, the main discussions on STI policy governance revolve around effectively using the increased public funding allocated for STKI, as outlined in the government's program. Moreover, emerging subjects have surfaced, such as enhancing the regulatory frameworks that bolster the ministry's operations, the use of funds gathered from lithium mining for scientific research, and conducting research on the environmental and social opportunities and impacts linked with the extraction of this mineral. Additional emerging discussions relate to amplifying the role of universities and regions in the STI system, the policy of gender parity in science, the climate change agenda, the encouragement of research and development in the humanities, arts and social sciences, and the national policy on artificial intelligence. Furthermore, debates continue to address the tripartite institutional framework for the governance of the National Innovation System (NIS), categorising it into three sectors: (a) science, technology, and innovation (STI) grounded in science and technology education of highly skilled human capital, under the supervision of MSTKI and the National Agency for Research and Development (ANID); (b) productive development, entrepreneurship and business innovation, technological development for productive aims and the strengthening of human resources in this area, under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Economy, Development and Tourism, and the Chilean Development Agency, CORFO; and (c) the education of technicians and professionals in the sciences, arts, and humanities in higher education institutions, under the purview of the Ministry of Education. In this context, the MSTKI is tasked with policy formulation and serves as the co-ordinating and orchestrating link between the NIS and other ministries. One challenge that has surfaced pertains to the "grey" areas where clear demarcation of roles is absent, as evident in the research and development (R&D) law. Currently, both ministries are collaborating to propose amendments to this law. A further challenge for the ministry in co-ordinating the national STI system has been the management of the public technological institutes (PTIs) mandated by other ministries. A proposal was put forth to grant MSTKI greater authority over the activities of these PTIs and facilitate co-ordination, leading to the establishment of the Committee of Public Research and Technological Institutes. |
| Colombia | Formalisation and consolidation of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MSTI): Law 1951 of 2019 created the ministry as the head entity of the science, technology and innovation (STI) sector, whose basic structure was issued by the National Development Plan (Law 1955 of 2019, articles 125 and 126). Under this regulatory framework, MSTI began operating in December 2019, formalising its activities, functions and capacities during the 2020 term. To date, its structure and functions are under review, to achieve better articulation with the country's needs and challenges in the context of international policies and guidelines (e.g. megatrends in STI, Sustainable Development Goals |
| Costa Rica | In May 2021, the National Council for Scientific and Technological Research (CONICIT) was transformed into the Costa Rican Promoter of Innovation and Research (Law 9971). The new agency's objective is to promote science, technology and innovation (STI) as key drivers for the productive and social development of the country. It operates under the guidance of the Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology and Telecommunications (MICITT). The National Policy for Knowledge-based Society and Economy 2022-2050 (PNSEBC), made official through Executive Decree N°43416 in January 2022, aims to establish a long-term vision for scientific and technological progress, as well as its economic, social, and environmental impact. The policy was developed through a participatory and consensus-building process involving civil society, the private sector, and the academic community. PNSEBC is built upon four strategic areas that are crucial for the country's development: Generation of Knowledge, Human Talent, Transformative Innovation, and Digital Transformation. The Digital Transformation strategic area includes two sub-areas: Governance for Digital Government and Inclusive Digitalisation. The policy emphasises the need to enable access to scientific and technological advancements for all citizens through robust innovation processes and the utilisation of telecommunication networks to bridge the digital divide. The National Science, Technology, and Innovation Plan 2022-2027 (PNCTI) was officially established by Executive Decree N°43474 in March 2022. The PNCTI serves as the sectoral roadmap for promoting STI in Costa Rica. In accordance with Law 9971, the PNCTI is the planning instrument proposed by the government, which provides short, medium, and long-term perspectives that ensure continuity and collaboration with public, private, and educational efforts in STI development. The PNCTI aligns with the guidelines set forth in the PNSEBC, specifically those related to STI development. Its mission is to direct the STI sector towards a society and economy based on knowledge for sustainable, equitable, and inclusive socioeconomic development. The PNCTI's medium-term perspective aims to establish a National Science, Technology, and Innovation System by 2027, promoting the intensive use of knowledge in productive activities and benefiting society with a territorial development perspective. |
| Croatia | Main debates on STI policy governance revolve around improving inter-institutional cooperation, coordination and efficient managing of STI agenda in order to provide regular funding opportunities for every lifecycle stage in R&D, which was identified as one of deficiencies in the period till 2021. Main public bodies governing policies on research, development and innovation (RDI) are the Ministry of Science and Education and the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development. When talking about STI policy governance, lessons learnt from period till 2021 were to improve communication, cooperation and coordination between all entities involved in RDI and to develop structured mechanisms of mutual consultation between the business sector, academia and public (state) institutions. This has also put an emphasis on the importance of entrepreneurial discovery process (EDP) as a true bottom-up process that is still in its early years and needs to be improved. The need for better cooperation between line ministries arises from vital need to bridge the gap between academia and business sector by improving market readiness of R&D results and by increasing collaboration between research organizations and enterprises. Governance issues mentioned above are raised in the context of Smart Specialization Strategy (S3) which represents an overarching strategy for STI policy in Croatia. Within S3 for period 2016-2020 National innovation council (NIC) was established as a horizontal STI coordination body and top governance body of national innovation system. Members of NIC are Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development, Minister of Science and Education, Minister of Regional Development and EU Funds, Minister of Labour, Pension System, Family and Social Policy, representatives of Thematic Innovation Councils (TICs), representatives of relevant councils such as Innovation Council for Industry, National Council for Human Resources Development, National Council for Science, Higher Education and Technological Development, representatives of relevant government chambers (commerce, crafts), Croatian Association of Employers, trade union headquarters and other relevant stakeholders. Furthermore, EDP is performed within Thematic Innovation Councils that bring together business representatives, research community and public administration representatives in certain thematic area of investment. Within draft S3 until 2029 the role of NIC in coordination of overall research and innovation policies is strengthened. NIC will inform, discuss and make decisions and recommendations for institutions in the national innovation system related to taking actions within their domains in relation to S3 and its policy instruments, broader research and innovation policies and their interaction with other policy spheres. The NIC will adopt a mechanism for joint policy-making to ensure that the conclusions of the TICs are reflected in the decision-making process. Another important issue of debate in recent years has been evidence-based decision-making that was one of weak points of Croatian STI policy and has therefore been a subject of detailed analysis, investments and importance in last several years. Thorough analysis of Croatian STI system as well as policy making and processes were done, which resulted in 5 analytical reports, two of them being the evaluation of S3 logical framework and governance system. Furthermore, within the strategic project 'Science and Technology Foresight' Croatian Research Information System (CroRIS) was created, a system that integrates data from many databases in one place and allows to have a detailed insight into research information. Within the same project foresight exercise was made for the area of investment Energy and Sustainable Environment and the mapping was performed for the areas Artificial Intelligence and Space technologies. Building on those efforts, a reliable monitoring and evaluation system is now being put in place. All of these efforts allow for strategic governance and development that can be measured which lays the foundation for a true evidence-based policy making in near future. |
| Cyprus | The National Research and Innovation (R&I) Strategy 2030, currently being developed by the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation, and Digital Policy (DMRID), will align with the government's priorities in R&I and address the needs and challenges of the national R&I ecosystem. It will draw upon the Strategy Framework for R&I "Innovate Cyprus 2019-2023," the national long-term economic strategy "Vision 2035," and consider the recommendations of the National Board for R&I (NBRI) and other national and EU policies, priorities, and initiatives such as the green and digital transitions and the European Research Area. The National R&I Strategy will be accompanied by an Action Plan that will outline measures, actions, and initiatives for each strategic pillar and priority, with a particular focus on funding programs. The new Smart Specialisation Strategy (S3) for Cyprus (2023-2030), adopted in March 2023, will complement the National Strategy under its "Sectorial Priorities" pillar (Pillar D). The National R&I Strategy comprises four pillars: Pillar A: Research Competence and Excellence, which emphasizes human resources, research infrastructures, scientific equipment, and open science. Pillar B: Innovation and Entrepreneurship, focusing on the exploitation of research results and attracting investments and international innovation and high-tech enterprises. Pillar C: Outreach and International Cooperation, which highlights transnational and Euro-Mediterranean cooperation and the promotion of the R&I ecosystem. Pillar D: Sectorial Priorities, aligned with the Smart Specialisation Strategy, focusing on sectors that bring high-added value to the economy and society. The Smart Specialisation Strategy (S3) identifies four priority groups: 1) Technological priority areas, including digital technologies and innovative materials. 2) Ecosystems, encompassing agrifood, renewable energy, and maritime and shipping sectors. 3) Emerging ecosystems, such as the space sector. 4) Enablers, which include health and the environment. These priorities will guide the strategic direction and resource allocation of the National R&I Strategy, ensuring a targeted approach to research and innovation activities in Cyprus. |
| Czech Republic | Discussions are underway to replace the current Act No. 130/2002 Coll. on the Support of Research, Experimental Development and Innovation from Public Funds with a new law. The aim of this new law is to simplify and streamline the management of research and development, reduce administrative burdens, optimize resource utilisation, and enhance the country's capabilities. The initiative for drafting the new law was initiated by the Minister of Science, Research, and Innovation. A significant debate in the Czech Republic revolves around public spending on research and development, with a push for increased funding. In 2021, R&D spending reached 2% of GDP for the first time, amounting to CZK 38 billion. However, the year-on-year increase was the lowest since 2010, amounting to only CZK 0.2 billion. The ongoing debate emphasizes the need for further increases in public R&D spending, with a target of reaching a budget dedicated to R&D of 3% of GDP. The Czech Republic has historically had low participation in EU Framework Programmes for Research and Innovation, including the current Horizon Europe program. In response, the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports has commissioned an analysis and a set of measures to enhance Czech participation in these EU programmes. The implementation of these measures, which include recommendations for public authorities and research organisations, is expected to significantly improve Czech participation in EU Framework Programmes. In 2023, the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports established the Council for International Cooperation of the Czech Republic in Research, Development, and Innovation as a central coordination body for public authorities involved in funding research, development, and innovation. Working groups dedicated to bilateral and multilateral cooperation, the ERA Policy Agenda, participation in EU Framework Programmes, and addressing foreign interference have also been formed. Additionally, the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports is preparing a reform of doctoral studies, which is expected to come into effect in early 2024. The reform aims to improve the financial conditions for doctoral students in the country. Regarding the European Research Area (ERA), the Czech Republic is actively implementing the ERA Policy Agenda 2022-2024, coordinated by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports. The National Research, Development, and Innovation Policy serves as the overarching strategy for advancing the research and innovation ecosystem in the Czech Republic. The ERA Actions are aligned with the policy orientations defined in the national policy and implemented accordingly. While there is no specific strategy or roadmap for implementing the ERA Policy Agenda, ERA has always been considered an integral part of national R&D and innovation policies. The responsibility for participating in and implementing relevant ERA Actions lies with key actors such as the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports, the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the Council for Research, Development, and Innovation, and the Technology Agency of the Czech Republic. Stakeholders from various fields and expertise contribute to the implementation of ERA Actions based on their respective roles and potential to contribute. |
| Denmark | In 2017, the Danish Government introduced a new strategy titled "Denmark - Ready to Seize Future Opportunities." This strategy outlined objectives for future research and innovation (R&I) policies in Denmark, which included strengthening technological research, reviewing the allocation of research funding to universities, and exploring ways to create better opportunities for early-career researchers. Following the election in December 2022, a new government assumed office with a strong emphasis on education and research as crucial elements in addressing major societal challenges. The government's ambition is to enhance research, protect academic freedom and research integrity, while also striving to meet the Barcelona target of allocating at least 1% of the gross domestic product (GDP) to public investment in research and development (R&D). One of the key agendas of the government is focused on the environment and environmental challenges. In 2019, the Danish Parliament passed the Act on Climate with a broad majority, setting an overall target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 70% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels. This reduction target remains a priority of the new government. The emphasis on climate change by both the government and the parliament has had, and continues to have, a significant impact on Danish science, technology, and innovation (STI) policy priorities, resulting in the allocation of funding aimed at mitigating climate change. As a small, open economy, Denmark recognises the strategic importance of further supporting internationalisation efforts, both to maximise the impact of public investment and to contribute to solving global challenges. Denmark ranks among the top participants in the European Union's Horizon Europe Framework Programme for R&I and maintains ambitious goals for participation in this programme. The Danish Government has launched a new action plan to enhance participation in green EU programmes, including Horizon Europe. |
| Estonia | Science, technology, and innovation (STI) policy discussions in Estonia consistently focus on two main themes: (1) Amplifying STI investments, particularly in the area of business-sector research, development, and innovation (RDI) expenditure; and (2) Strengthening the connection between the public research system and societal and business-sector needs. On STI investments, in 2019, Estonia made a political commitment to elevate public R&D funding to 1% of gross domestic product (GDP). This pledge has been reaffirmed in 2023 by the newly appointed government. As part of the agreement, the annual increase in RDI funding will be allocated as follows: 40% to the research system, 40% to business R&D support schemes, and 20% to different ministries to bolster the RDI capacities associated with their policy domains. This arrangement has fostered a robust incentive for a "whole of government" approach to RDI policy, stimulating active discourse on ensuring efficient coordination of RDI activities, promoting joint actions, including mission-oriented policy initiatives, and on creating synergies between different policy instruments to prevent fragmentation of the national RDI system. The Estonian Employers Confederation has established the Innovation 2% Club - a collective of heads of development and entrepreneurs who invest 2% or more of their respective company's turnover in R&D. The club's goal is to encourage R&D activities amongst companies by sharing success stories, good practices, and innovative ideas. It involves R&D-intensive companies in the activities of the Employer Innovation Start-Up Chamber to foster knowledge creation and networking. The 2% Club also works in close partnership with government officials in the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communication (MEAC) to align activities with the public sector. On strengthening the connection between the public research system and societal and business-sector needs, the implementation of the joint Research, Development, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Strategy in 2021 has seen the focus of RDI policy interventions shift towards knowledge transfer, enhancing collaboration between the academic, public, and private sectors, and boosting the contribution and impact of RDI in addressing societal challenges, including the twin transition. This shift in focus has precipitated the redrafting of the Research and Development Governance Act, which is anticipated to be finalised by the end of 2023. The draft act encompasses innovation activities, reassesses the roles of various players in the Estonian RDI system, restructures funding instruments, and introduces new concepts such as open science and research integrity. As the demand for RDI in both private and public sectors increases, there is a growing need for a more qualified RDI workforce, placing PhD studies and graduation under the spotlight of policymakers. In 2022, Estonia introduced a law that allows most PhD students to apply for the status of junior researchers, entitling them to become paid employees earning at least an average Estonian wage. Additionally, new funding mechanisms are offered to support more active intersectoral mobility of researchers, including joint PhD studies with business and public sector employers. |
| European Union | The current EU Framework Programme for research and innovation (Horizon Europe) covers the period 2021-2027. It includes among others: - the European Innovation Council (EIC), a one-stop shop for innovation to bring the most promising ideas from lab to real-world application and help the most innovative start-ups and companies to scale-up; - six clusters for cross-disciplinary and collaborative research and innovation; - EU-wide missions with ambitious goals tackling some of the biggest problems affecting our daily lives in five areas, i.e. (i) adaptation to climate change, including societal transformation; (ii) cancer; (iii) healthy oceans, seas and coastal and inland waters; (iv) climate-neutral and smart cities; and, (v) soil health and food; - European partnerships (public-public and public-private), e.g. on clean hydrogen, clean aviation or high performance computing. The implementation of Horizon Europe comes with an inclusive governance based on a two-pronged approach both internally in the Commission, where a 'co-creation' process brings together all interested services in order to ensure coherence in the implementation of research and innovation funding to support the Union's priorities. It covers the whole cycle from the initial stages of agenda setting and conceptualisation to the preparation of the strategic plans and the work programmes as well as the exploitation of results and a 'co-design' process. Such a process includes the early involvement of Member States, extensive exchanges with the European Parliament and broad consultation with stakeholders and the public at large. This led to the publication in 2020 of a strategic plan setting out the key strategic orientations for the first four years of implementation of Horizon Europe. The preparation of the second strategic plan covering the last three years of the programme is ongoing. Another strategic area of work concerns the Global Approach to research and innovation. The strategy reaffirms the EU's openness in international research and innovation cooperation, while promoting a level playing field and reciprocity underpinned by fundamental values and common framework conditions. It also sets the aim to strengthen the EU's support to multilateral partnerships focused on global challenges in order to create a global critical mass of research and innovation. The implementation of the strategy takes place in close coordination with the EU Member States using the ERA Forum for Transition as appropriate, including through initiatives modelled on a Team Europe approach, which combine the actions by the EU, financial institutions and Member States to maximise the effectiveness and impact of the actions. Since 2021 the governance of the European Research Area (ERA) has undergone a major revision. On 26 November 2021, the European Council adopted a Council Recommendation on a Pact for Research and Innovation in Europe and approved the Council conclusions on the future governance of the ERA, endorsing the proposal made by the Commission in its Communication on 'A new ERA for Research and Innovation' of 30 September 2020. The new ERA is implemented through the 20 joint actions of the ERA Policy Agenda 2022-24: to coordinate the preparation, implementation and monitoring of this Agenda, the ERA Forum was set up in February 2022 as a Commission expert group. In the ERA Forum, the Commission, Member States, Horizon Europe associated countries and stakeholders regularly come together, which ensures close cooperation and ownership of the actions. Additionally, the European Research Area and Innovation Committee (ERAC) acts as the high-level strategic policy advisory committee, providing early advice to the Council, the Commission and the Member States on strategic R&I policy issues and to initiate updates of the ERA Policy Agenda. |
| Finland | Finland is dedicated to significantly increasing its investments in research and development (R&D), with a higher level of ambition for R&D activities. In December 2021, the Parliamentary RDI working group established a consensus for aiming at a 4% R&D investment level by 2030, proposing measures to reach this target. Consequently, the Act on government R&D funding and Act on tax deductions for R&D activities for companies were adopted. The Government R&D Funding Act specifies that the government's R&D funding should reach 1.2% of GDP by 2030, with two-thirds of the increase expected to come from private investments. Furthermore, the Act stipulates that the government must prepare a multiannual plan for government R&D funding for the subsequent eight years, once every electoral term. The issues for debate below are derived from the multiannual R&D funding plan, prepared by the Parliamentary RDI working group and published in March 2023, representing policy development needs identified in the report: 1. Management and steering of the research and innovation system: The report suggests strengthening the role of the Prime Minister's Research and Innovation Council (RIC) in managing and coordinating research and innovation policy through reorganisation and increased resources. The RIC should also coordinate and monitor the implementation of the Public R&D Funding Act and the long-term R&D funding plan. Enhanced collaboration across administrative branches and sectors is advised. The report also highlights the necessity for more effective communication about research and innovation policies. 2. Competence and availability of R&D workforce: The report asserts that raising the population's competences, skills and education is essential for achieving R&D objectives. Talented individuals should be supported throughout the education system to pursue research careers. Research career options in the public and private sectors should be made clearer. To reach the targeted increase in RDI activities, knowledge-based immigration and the development of immigration services supporting it are necessary. Attention must be given to the smooth entry of highly skilled experts (incl. scientists and other R&D experts), their families, and the attraction of international students. These measures are coordinated and prepared in multi-sectoral cooperation. 3. Strengthened RDI cooperation: Cooperation between different RDI actors will be increased and strengthened throughout the Finnish RDI system. The coherency and complementarity of national and regional measures will be fortified, regional specialisation promoted to increase effectiveness and efficiency. Cooperation between RDI funders, especially Business Finland and the Academy of Finland, will be intensified and public-private partnerships supporting long-term RDI cooperation will be supported through national and international funding instruments. 4. National priorities and strategic choices for R&D activities: The parliamentary working group's report states that the renewed Research and Innovation Council will carry out the process of selecting strategic priorities. The selection process is expected to identify global trends, requirements for a green transition, prerequisites for growth, and define strategic choices and development needs for research and innovation policy. This process should promote a green transition and be open, allowing participation from a wide range of stakeholders based on evidence-based knowledge. 5. R&D funding: The report identifies 11 development needs in R&D funding. These include government funding for universities for researcher training, funding granted by Academy of Finland to further strengthen research quality; funding for universities of applied sciences forexample for the implementation of RDI-based continuous learning; allocations for improved ability of public research institutes to succeed in international competition for research funding; funding granted by Business Finland and the Academy of Finland to inter alia encourage higher education institutions, research institutes, companies and public entities to engage in long-term R&D cooperation (partnerships) and to applied research including cooperation that supports finding solutions to societal challenges and facilitating societal transitions; ; funding encouraging companies to engage in R&D, more effective utilisation of international and EU RDI programmes; conditions for research that generates new knowledge in health and social services system; funding for research infrastructures and changing the focus of business subsidies to encourage modernisation. 6. A research and innovation-friendly operating environment: The report identifies the need to develop an operating environment that improves the ability to transform R&D results and expertise into innovations. An attractive operating environment includes, among others, available experimentation and development environments, innovation-friendly regulation that facilitates RDI activities and encourages the roll-out of innovations, innovative public procurement that promotes innovation uptake and market demand and a high-quality system for protection of intellectual property rights. As for the relation to European Research Area Actions, Finland is committed to implementing 14 ERA Actions. The execution of the ERA Policy Agenda forms an integral part of several Finnish national initiatives, including the National RDI Roadmap and the report of the Parliamentary RDI Working Group. Individual ERA Actions will be integrated within the corresponding national policies and/or initiatives. No dedicated ERA policy mechanism will be put into action. In general, European Union policy objectives are considered as part of regular national processes. During last years universities, research institutions and also companies have increased their engagement in EU R&D programs. The proportion of R&D expenditure in universities and research institutes funded by EU has increased from six percent to nearly ten percent during 2015-2021. In business R&D expenditure the share is more modest but also increasing (about 1% in 2021). A new government took office in June 2023. The government is committed to continue the work towards 4% R&D investment level by 2030 and to continue the work based on the Parliamentary consensus. The Government will draw the multiannual R&D funding plan during its term. |
| France | In 2023, France did not provide information on 'Governance' policy debates. |
| Germany | The current discourse in Germany revolves around the need to make Research and Innovation (R&I) policy more dynamic, risk-embracing and disruptive, with a focus on overcoming the 'silo-mentality' prevalent in federal ministries concerning R&I policy. The Expert Commission on Research and Innovation (Expertenkommission Forschung und Innovation, EFI) contends that the government and public administration need further modernisation and should work more closely across departments to tackle societal challenges. As stated in the Federal Government's coalition agreement from 2021, R&I policy will undergo a reorientation guided by the so-called Future Strategy for Research and Innovation (Zukunftsstrategie Forschung und Innovation). This strategy aims to promote inter-ministerial cooperation within the context of mission-oriented R&I policy, accelerating the transition of ideas from research into practice. The Future Strategy for Research and Innovation was developed through a participative stakeholder process, which underscores the government's intention to increasingly involve diverse actors in meeting the objectives of the missions. With the establishment of the Federal Agency for Disruptive Innovation (Bundesagentur für Sprunginnovationen SPRIND GmbH) in December 2019, the Federal Government has taken a critical step in creating new avenues and funding opportunities for disruptive innovations within a newly designed framework. SPRIND already employs various instruments, such as pre-commercial procurement and loans, to support disruptive innovations using both top-down and bottom-up approaches. In line with the aspirations of the current German Federal Government, the EFI advises the government to increase the agency's operational freedom, thereby boosting its agility and flexibility to better achieve its objectives. Spurring innovation and transfer, and enhancing start-up activity are among the pivotal tasks for R&D policy in the legislative period 2021-2025. A key instrument for accomplishing this is the establishment of the German Agency for Transfer and Innovation (Deutsche Agentur für Transfer und Innovation, DATI). An Action Plan, slated for adoption in 2023, will coordinate and implement national activities supporting the European Research Area (ERA) in alignment with the current national R&D policy priorities. |
| Greece | The General Secretariat for Research and Innovation (GSRI) is the primary authority in Greece responsible for the design and management of Research, Technological Development and Innovation (RTDI) policies. It supervises 11 of Greece's public research centres and 3 technological organizations, while universities function under the remit of the Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs. Following the general elections in July 2019, GSRI was transferred from the Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs to the Ministry of Development and Investments, as stipulated by Presidential Decree 81/2019. Recently, a debate initiated by the National Council for Research, Technology and Innovation (ESETEK) has led to a proposal for creating a new Ministry for Higher Education and Research, which would incorporate the GSRI. This proposition aligns with the vision of establishing an Integrated Research and Education Area in Greece, providing a common administration for the country's research organisations, which include universities and Public Research Centres operating under the aegis of GSRI and beyond. However, after the general elections in May 2023, the proposal of ESETEK has not been adopted. Moreover, according to Law 4310/2014, as currently modified and enforced, the GSRI is the competent authority for formulating and implementing the National Strategy for Research, Technological Development and Innovation (NSRI). For the 2021-2027 period, GSRI has prepared a draft NSRI, which will be open for consultation (launched in April 2023). Upon consultation completion and finalisation of the Strategy, it will be presented to Parliament for adoption and ratification. In the context of the European Research Area (ERA), Greece has engaged in an enhanced dialogue with the European Commission. The implementation of the ERA Policy Agenda in Greece has been discussed, alongside Greece's participation in several ERA policy actions. Topics such as the new European Innovation Agenda, synergies between Horizon Europe and the Structural Funds, as well as European Missions and Partnerships, hold particular interest for Greece. A round-table discussion was also organised during the enhanced dialogue, involving Greek city mayors participating in the European "Smart Cities Network". |
| Hungary | The Hungarian Government approved the National Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Strategy 2021-2030 in June 2021. Its objectives align with international trends and challenges, such as promoting knowledge flows, enhancing co-operative RDI programmes, creating collaborative networks with stakeholders of the Quadruple Helix model, and supporting intellectual property protection activities. The Ministry of Culture and Innovation and the National RDI Office are among the main government bodies tasked with implementing Hungary's RDI policy. In recent years, RDI expenditures in Hungary have grown dynamically, both in absolute terms and relative to GDP. The Hungarian government has set an ambitious goal to rank among Europe's top 10 innovators by 2030. To attain this objective, the Hungarian government allocated an unprecedented HUF 318 billion to R&D in 2021. The total R&D expenditure in Hungary, encompassing both public and private sectors, was also a record high at HUF 907 billion. This amount represents an 18% increase compared to the previous year and 1.65% of GDP, marking the highest proportion to date. According to the European Innovation Scoreboard, Hungary is gradually improving its innovation score. Although Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia are still categorised as 'emerging innovators' by this publication, Hungary is leading this group. Over the past five years, thanks in part to establishing a dedicated government body - the Ministry for Innovation and Technology (now known as the Ministry of Culture and Innovation) - Hungary's score has improved annually since 2019. |
| Iceland | In February 2022, matters related to science, technology, and innovation (STI) were consolidated in the newly established Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation. The ministry also encompasses industry, digital matters, telecommunications, and cybersecurity. This reorganisation aims to integrate the entire chain of higher education, research, and innovation under a single minister, enabling a more comprehensive approach to the knowledge industry and its economic potential. A new legal bill, passed in 2022, has introduced significant changes to the structure of science and technology policy, effective from April 1st, 2023. Under the new legislation, ministers will have a more active role in developing the government's STI policy, with an accompanying specialist committee providing advisory support. |
| Ireland | Ireland's research and innovation (R&I) system contains the full spectrum of basic and applied research, experimental development and innovation. It has been transformed since the start of this century, with total Government investment in R&I increasing from less than â¬250 million to almost â¬1 billion every year. Individual Government Departments and their Agencies are responsible for driving the R&I agenda in the sectors under their remits. In July 2020, the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science (DFHERIS) was established to: - play a central system role in bringing these actors together to ensure a cohesive Whole-of-Government approach; and - ensure that public investment in, and public policy regarding, Ireland's further and higher education and research and innovation systems respond to societal challenges and promote economic growth. DFHERIS developed a Whole-of-Government national R&I strategy, Impact 2030: Ireland's Research and Innovation Strategy, following extensive stakeholder consultation. This Strategy was published in May 2022 and: - reflects that the domestic and international context has fundamentally changed since previous national R&I strategies; and - lays the foundations for Ireland to become an 'Innovation Leader' by putting R&I at the heart of our response to economic, environmental and societal challenges; by recognising the importance of talent; and by targeting R&I investment of 2.5% of Modified Gross National Income (GNI*) by 2030. Climate action and digital transformation are the recognised twin transitions that are driving much behaviour and action globally. They generate multiple challenges for economies, societies and governments. They also create opportunities for new ways of working and living. In addition, they influence other national priorities, including economic competitiveness, health and wellbeing, and agriculture, food and the marine. Impact 2030 addresses these and other challenges through 30 Flagship Initiatives under the following five Pillars: 1. Maximising the Impact of R&I on our Economy, Society and the Environment; 2. Impact of R&I Structures on Excellence and Outcomes; 3. Innovation Driving Enterprise Success; 4. Talent at the Heart of the R&I Ecosystem; and 5. All-Island, EU and Global Connectivity. Three new oversight and governance structures drive implementation of the Strategy: 1. The Impact 2030 Steering Group (comprised of the five largest R&I funding Departments which account for 95% of public funding for R&I, in addition to the Department of the Taoiseach and the Department of Children, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Youth) steers R&I policy direction in a more agile and responsive manner and leverages wider investment - both public and private - in R&I to deliver on the ambitions set out in Impact 2030. 2. The Impact 2030 Implementation Forum (comprising Government Departments and Agencies that fund and/or perform R&I) engages with and supports the work of the Impact 2030 Steering Group. It works together to embed best practice and consistency of approach and coherence across funders and performers by coordinating relevant activities, sharing information and consulting on common issues in a structured manner. This will ensure that R&I priorities best reflect our national agenda and will contribute to the impact of the public R&I system. 3. An Impact 2030 R&I Policy Advisory Forum will be chaired by the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science. This Forum will provide an agreed structure for engagement between policy makers, international as well as national experts and the R&I community. This Forum will advise on the strategic development of the national R&I system (for example, about the intersection of the national R&I and EDI (equality, diversity and inclusivity) agendas). |
| Israel | The question of whether public financial support for innovation should follow a top-down or bottom-up approach, or perhaps a combination of both, is a major subject of debate in Israel. The choice will precipitate different questions regarding how to determine ratios, how the government should select various technological fields in the top-down approach, how to incorporate national objectives into the decision-making process for funding various projects, and what tools should be applied depending on the chosen approach (e.g., investing in basic research in the case of a top-down approach, and funding research and development). Another secondary, yet pertinent, debate often arises on leadership roles in specific cases when multiple government authorities are involved. Such instances ignite discussions about the extent of involvement of each body, their respective responsibilities, authority, and budget allocation. |
| Italy | Italian science, technology, and innovation (STI) policy governance are interconnected with discussions and negotiations taking place in the European Union and other international forums. The Italian Research Plan (PNR) for the period 2021 to 2027 is a participatory and dynamic multi-year framework programming tool designed to contribute to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the European Commission's priorities, the Cohesion Policy Goals 2021-2027, as well as the Next Generation EU initiative. The underlying principle guiding the design of the PNR 2021-2027 is to address the question of how research can benefit the country. It aims to harness the excellent skills present within the Italian system to address emergencies and promote environmental, economic, social, and cultural sustainability. The plan lays the foundation for growth and enhances the quality of life for citizens. The plan promotes positive transformations by leveraging both basic and applied research, as well as policies that promote innovation, citizen engagement, and dedicated knowledge and technology transfer actions. It prioritises the well-being of individuals, businesses, and public administration. The key priorities for the country include investing in young people, consolidating fundamental research, fostering interdisciplinary research, promoting international collaboration in higher education and research, and facilitating knowledge exchange between research and industry. The PNR 2021-2027 is structured into system priorities, major areas of research and innovation, related intervention areas, national plans, and missions. The system priorities aim to strengthen the research system by building upon its strengths and addressing weaknesses. The six major areas of research and innovation, along with their specific focus areas, align with the six clusters of Horizon Europe, the European Framework Program for Research and Innovation 2021-2027. They also consider the areas outlined in the National Strategy for Smart Specialisation. The broader areas of research and innovation are further categorised into 28 intervention areas, tailored to the specificities of the national context based on consultations and input from relevant stakeholders. The PNR 2021-2027 also includes the National Plan for Research Infrastructure and the National Plan for Open Science as integral components. |
| Japan | There exists a need in Japan to strengthen the command-and-control function (comprehensive co-ordination from one position higher than the respective ministries) and co-ordinate policies advanced by the command post councils across the board, including the Council for Science, Technology and Innovation (CSTI); the Digital Agency; the Intellectual Property Strategy Headquarters;the Headquarters for Healthcare Policy; the Space Development Strategy Headquarters; and the Comprehensive Ocean Policy Headquarters. All of these are closely related to science, technology and innovation (STI) policies. To this aim, the Act for Establishment of the Cabinet Office was amended to establish the Secretariat for Science, Technology and Innovation Promotion in the Cabinet Office in April 2021. With regard to science, technology, and innovation-related policies promoted by related command and control centers and related ministries and agencies, a system will be established as soon as possible so that the secretariat can effectively work out coordination functions such as eliminating overlapping policies and promoting collaboration. To this end, through the Integrated Innovation Strategy Promotion Council, the government strengthened cooperation with related command and control centers and related ministries and agencies. Regular meetings are held to share information and strengthen collaboration with the Secretariat of the related command and control centers and relatedministries and agencies. In order to realize Society 5.0, CSTI will further deepen cooperation with the above-mentioned command and control centers and the Science Council of Japan(SCJ), the independent organisation that provides policy recommendations to the government and public, and strengthen cooperative relations with various councils of relevant ministries and agencies in policy studies. In addition, based on the progress of concrete reform of SCJ in order for it to play a better role as the representative institution of scientists in Japan, new cooperative relations will be established according to the roles required of SCJ. Based on the "Compilation of the Policy Discussions on the Modality of Science Council of Japan" compiled in January 2022,etc., discussions proceeded from the perspective of what roles and functions SCJ should fulfill in order to continue to be understood and trusted by the public, and in December 2022, the "Policy on the Modality of the Science Council of Japan',etc. were compiled and published. |
| Korea | The Yoon Suk Yeol Government commenced its term in 2022 and has sought forward-thinking policy directions and governance for science, technology, and innovation (STI), as it revisits challenges facing Korea's STI at the dawn of the new century. Furthermore, the new administration endeavours to reposition or redesign the STI policies and governance frameworks of the previous government. Within this context, the salient STI policy issues and agendas to which Korea is currently responding strategically are as follows: (a) The race for technological superiority is escalating globally among economic blocs as well as technologically advanced countries. The success or failure of each country's future industries could hinge on securing global supply chains for core technologies, materials, components, and equipment. Amidst this era of technological domination, it is imperative for Korea to secure strategic technologies that have significant economic, social, and security implications for the nation's future innovation and survival. The new government has consequently launched the 'National Critical Technologies' Promotion Plan, which aims to secure national strategic technologies in sectors such as semiconductors, displays, rechargeable batteries, and advanced mobility. This plan introduces mission-oriented R&D promotion schemes not just for consolidating the nation's S&T capacities, but also for addressing economic and social challenges. (b) Digital competitiveness is a key determinant of national competence. A country's digital capabilities can drive innovation across the economy and society, contributing to improvements in economic structure, enhancement of industrial quality, job creation, and social problem-solving. Recognising this, Korea is alert to the importance of reshaping economic and social structures through digital means. To this end, the new government launched the 'Korea Digital Strategy', a national flagship strategy aimed at leading global rule-setting in the digital era and elevating Korea to a leading digital nation. This strategy encompasses the securing of cutting-edge technologies in major fields of innovation, including artificial intelligence (AI), the expansion of the digital economy across industries, and the construction of a cohesive digital platform government. It encompasses key components such as the 'Digital Bill of Rights', designed to safeguard digital liberties, the 'Framework Act on Artificial Intelligence' to govern ethical AI development, the 'Special Act on the Metaverse' fostering a sustainable virtual ecosystem, and the 'Act on Digital Inclusiveness' aimed at bridging digital disparities. (c) Following the Paris Agreement, the move towards a green economy via carbon neutrality is now seen as a national imperative to be realised by 2050. As such, the transition to a carbon-neutral society is vitally important for the future growth of each sector in the country. Korea has established key implementation schemes to facilitate this transition in all sectors of society, transcending the realms of economy and industry. The Korean government has also developed various strategies and plans for carbon neutrality by industrial sector, technological field, and area of innovation. (d) Recently, the growth of the Korean economy has been slowing due to the declining growth potential of industry, a decrease in labour input related to demographic changes, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and global economic turbulence. In this climate, the government has acknowledged the need for a systematic and comprehensive growth strategy to reignite national growth. As a response, the new administration introduced the 'New Growth 4.0' Strategy, a vision aiming to achieve a per capita income of USD 50,000 and transform Korea into a super-class country through future industry-oriented growth. This Strategy focuses on promoting large-scale projects closely related to people's lives that will generate new growth engines through the pre-emptive acquisition of future technologies. It is accompanied by plans to establish a 'Great Industrial Transformation Strategy'. The '5th Science and Technology Master Plan', set to start in 2023, is the government's foremost mid-term S&T strategy. This plan has been newly implemented with action plans in May 2023. Expanding its scope beyond R&D system improvement and technology development, the Plan emphasizes S&T-driven solutions to national and societal challenges in critical areas like healthcare, energy, environment, disaster, and security. A central focus of the Plan lies in fostering private-led innovation as a means to secure growth engines capable of addressing these challenges effectively. This approach aligns with the 'New Growth 4.0 Strategy' and the 'Korea Digital Strategy' of the New Administration, which emphasise leveraging the strengths of the private sector to complement government-led efforts. Collaboration between the government, private sector, and public-private partnerships are crucial aspects of the key STI strategies and plans under the New Administration, facilitating the efficient implementation of their objectives. Of note, the New Administration assigns higher priority to significant scientific domains such as nuclear energy, space, defence, and quantum research compared to its predecessor. The government enacted a special law in March 2023 to support national critical technologies and increased R&D budget for these critical technologies to USD 1.8 billion for the 2024 fiscal year. This strategic orientation seeks to bolster Korea's position in cutting-edge fields and promote technological advancements for the benefit of society as a whole. These STI strategies and policies from the new administration have led to some changes in policy coordination systems for STI. Some new coordination bodies have replaced existing ones, while certain foundational bodies, such as the "Presidential Advisory Council on Science and Technology (PACST)" and the "Science, Technology Innovation Office (STIO) under the Ministry of Science and Technology", remain in place. The "Ministers' Meeting on Science and Technology" and the "Presidential Committee on the 4th Industrial Revolution", which were crucial to STI governance in the previous administration, are no longer operational. The "Special Committee on National Strategic Technologies under the Presidential Advisory Council on Science and Technology" and the "'New Growth 4.0' Strategy Meeting" are expected to play significant roles in the new administration. Strategic policy intelligence schemes and evaluation and assessment schemes have seen little change in the new administration. However, there have been some significant advancements in creating a researcher-centred research management environment through the introduction of Chatbot services and provision of customised analysis information services in the "National Science and Technology Information Service (NTIS)". |
| Latvia | (1) Further development of science-for-policy capacity and European Research Area policy governance: Latvia is continuously developing new State Research Programmes, thus increasing both the state's procurement of research and the utilisation of research-based evidence for policymaking across various fields. The European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) co-funded project on "Support for International Cooperation Projects in Research and Innovation" will conclude in November 2023. A new project proposal is currently being developed, with a preliminary focus on enhancing science-for-policy capacity and strengthening the governance of European Research Area (ERA) policies to foster deeper engagement in the new ERA. (2) Further development of Latvia's Smart Specialisation Strategy (RIS3): The RIS3 has been incorporated into the National Industrial Policy Guidelines for 2021-2027, shifting the primary responsibility for its implementation from the Ministry of Education to the Ministry of Economics. Work is ongoing to develop a more granular approach to R&I funding instruments in the new planning period. The government aims to transition from a broad approach, where programmes and activities are implemented within RIS3 areas, to an ecosystem approach that focuses on a more nuanced and diverse policy mix tailored to the specific needs of each of the five RIS3 specialisation areas. R&I funding instruments will be created, with a focus on specific sub-areas within the broader RIS3 areas. Boards have been established to develop strategies for the further advancement of RIS3 specialisation areas, and these strategies are currently being developed. New funding instruments are also being developed. (3) Ongoing improvements of higher education institution governance and strengthening of research-based higher education: The core pillars of this reform initiative are the establishment of a more effective institutional governance structure, diversification of funding, and the development of human capital. The reform aims to address the weaknesses and deficiencies in the higher education system, as identified by local stakeholders and international experts, including low international competitiveness, lack of clear development strategies, programme fragmentation, and a separation of research and academic activities. A new base funding model and strategic specialisation of institutions have been developed, and Governing Boards have been established. The objectives of the reform are to: - Increase autonomy for internal structural entities and strengthen the principle of external accountability by ensuring broad representation of internal and external interested parties on the Governing Board. - Define principles for involving external stakeholders in strategic development decisions. - Open positions of rectors and vice-rectors for external activities, including international competition. - Establish clearer requirements and more transparent procedures for selecting and approving candidates for all administrative posts. - Make HEIs' development strategies an integral part of institutional improvements. - Improve university-internal governance mechanisms by reviewing the division of responsibilities and strengthening the role of the Governing Board, predominantly composed of external stakeholders, in decision-making. - Develop mechanisms for consolidating higher education and research resources. |
| Lithuania | The Economic Transformation and Competitiveness Development Programme of the Ministry of Economy and Innovation of the Republic of Lithuania was approved by the Government in 2022. The programme includes specific measures to encourage companies to digitalise, implement mission-driven science and innovation programmes, and create a coherent system to promote innovation activities. The National Agreement on Education Policy, signed by all political parties represented in the Seimas (Parliament of Lithuania) in 2021, stipulates that from 2022 onwards, state budget allocations for R&D activities in higher education and the government sector should amount to at least 1% of GDP by the end of 2030, with annual growth of state funding. In line with the National Agreement on Education Policy, European Research Area documents, and the 2021-2030 National Progress Programme, the Ministry of Education, Science and Sport created the Research Development Programme 2022-2030, which was adopted by the Government in 2022. The programme consists of three progress measures: strengthening innovation ecosystems in science centres, improving the research and higher education environment, and implementing mission-based research and innovation programmes in collaboration with the Ministry of Economy and Innovation. These measures aim to ensure and promote attractive careers for researchers, high-level R&D, knowledge transfer and cooperation with businesses, as well as the role of science in addressing societal challenges and mission orientation. As part of the Research Development Programme, the positions of science and innovation advisors (officers), similar to Chief scientific advisor positions in some other countries, will be established in all ministries and the Government Office itself to strengthen the role of R&D in all policy fields. Additionally, a specific "Horizon Europe" acceleration plan has been created to increase competencies of the applicants and quality of the projects, also enhance the visibility of Lithuania's science field internationally. The concept of smart specialisation for 2021-2027 was approved in 2022, aiming to strengthen research and innovation capacities, develop new technologies, and increase the country's competitiveness in global markets. Three R&D&I priorities have been identified to promote and support innovations in the country: health technologies, biotechnologies, and safe food; new production processes, materials, and energy efficiency; and ICT technologies for an inclusive and creative society. The Innovation Agency (under Ministry of Economy and Innovation), launched in April 2022, promotes and supports innovations at all stages of business development, from idea generation to product delivery to end-users. Furthermore, following the merger with the Science, Innovation and Technology Agency in 2022, the Research Council of Lithuania (under Government) has become the main institution responsible for implementing science policy, serving as a "one-stop shop" for the entire R&D cycle of research and higher education institutions. |
| Luxembourg | To meet its ambitions, Luxembourg must resolutely invest in research and innovation, because the research ecosystem will be the main catalyst allowing us to seize the aforementioned opportunities. Research will generate the innovations that can improve the quality of life of tomorrow and it is by initiating collaborations between the research ecosystem and the different societal stakeholders that we will be able to introduce those innovations into our daily life. To meet this challenge, a small country like Luxembourg must adopt a strategic approach that clearly defines the expected contribution from its research ecosystem to societal development and maximizes the synergies and complementarities between the different actors of research and innovation. |
| Malaysia | Malaysia's 5-Year Plans have been the backbone of national socio-economic development policy for more than 60 years. Now in its 12th edition, the 5-year Plan aims to promote inclusive economic growth and shared prosperity for all the nation's people. Science, technology and innovation (STI) have been embedded in the national development plans as the nation gears towards ensuring a well-informed society that is ready to face future economic, social and environmental challenges. The main policy debate facing Malaysia concerning STI is the urgent need to streamline and strengthen national STI governance. As STI players cover cross-cutting ministries and agencies, co-ordinated governance is crucial to avoid resource fragmentation, overlapping competencies and redundancy in research activities, which may lead to ineffective wealth creation and decision-making. The government continues to strengthen co-ordination efforts, by establishing a research management unit (RMU) covering research and development (R&D) activities, systematically setting policy directions through evidence-based decision-making and prioritising national research areas. The newly launched National Policy on Science, Technology and Innovation (NPSTI) for 2021-30 focuses on these efforts, highlighting the roles of the various stakeholders involved in the national STI ecosystem. This new policy is driven by the National Science Council (chaired by the Prime Minister) and the National High-Tech Council (chaired by the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation), which provide a co-ordinated and effective decision-making platform to promote STI as a key enabler for addressing national issues and challenges for economic growth. |
| Malta | In January 2022, Malta launched its Smart Specialisation Strategy 2021-2027 identifying 6 Thematic areas with innovative potential; Health and Well-Being, Sustainable Use of Resources for Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation, Smart Manufacturing, Marine & Maritime Technologies, Aviation and Aerospace, and Future Digital Technologies which is both a vertical priority and horizontal enabler of the other priorities. The implementation of the Strategy centres around 6 Thematic Committees representing each thematic area, which were set up in mid-2022 and were tasked with presenting a work plan proposing measures which meet the implementation goals of the Strategy. Most of the Committees presented their action plans in November 2022, while work on the Future Digital Technologies Action Plan is at an advanced stage. Following a public consultation exercise launched in December 2022,Malta is also currently in the process of finalising the National R&I Strategic Plan 2023-2027, which aims to use the collective insights and recommendations from the three EU Policy Support Facility exercises conduced in Malta, particularly the Peer Review of Malta's R&I landscape, to focus on actions required to introduce the necessary changes in implementing structures and mechanisms. The Plan recommends a multipronged approach up to 2027 through five main goals and related clusters of measures and actions. The implementation of the ERA and its connected ERA Policy Agenda 2022-2024 takes places locally on an on-going basis. The ERA Policy Agenda is coordinated centrally by the Malta Council for Science and Technology (MCST), via the Ministry for Education, Youth, Sports and Research (MEYR), using a case-by-case approach. The coordination of these actions will prospectively look to take a more structured nature over the next few months, once all the government formations have been defined and launched on an EU level, through the possible creation of an informal national coordination mechanism. This mechanism will be chaired, steered, and hosted by MCST and involve those participants officially nominated to take part in the individual actions. |
| Mexico | The National Council of Science and Technology (CONAHCYT ), in its responsible exercise of legal competence as the leading entity for coordinating human-centric science, technology and innovation (STI) policies, has defined its action policy based on six guiding principles to guide scientific and technological activities towards true transformation in the field. These six principles are: 1. Strengthening and consolidation of human-centred STI communities; consists of support to the scientific community, i.e. fellows and researchers. This will be done through structural changes in the support provided to ensure social return for the benefit of the country. 2. Basic and frontier research and scientific and technological infrastructure; this involves strengthening higher education institutions, mainly public, for the generation of knowledge from basic and frontier research, and also promoting scientific and technological infrastructure and its optimal use. The aim is to ensure technological independence. 3. National Strategic Programmes (Pronaces); related to the articulation and involvement of the scientific and technological communities and various sectors, in order to unite research efforts around specific national problems related to health, climate change, energy transition, accelerated urbanisation, the emergence of chronic degenerative diseases, among others. 4. Technological development and open innovation through the new Mexican Pentahelix model, a virtuous open innovation model for the country, capable of effectively coordinating current and future resources. It is evolving from a triple helix to a pentahelix, linking government, academia, industry, involving society and the environment. 5. Universal access to knowledge; linked to the promotion, dissemination and support of scientific culture and, more generally, collective interest in the humanities, sciences, technologies and innovation. 6. Sectoral and regional coordination of public centres; related to the utilisation and dissemination of basic and cutting-edge research and the promotion of an academic offer (of the CONAHCYT research centres) in line with the most pressing needs of the country, for which sustainable strategies of articulation and linkage with local, regional, national and international public and private sector actors, as well as with the academy and the social sector, are elaborated. This "H" in CONAHCY was added following the approval of the General Law on Humanities, Sciences, Technologies and Innovation, a new law published on May 8, 2023. By incorporating the humanities as part of national public policy, we seek to vindicate the role of humanism in defining scientific, technological and innovation activities. At the same time, the role of humanistic and scientific research, technological development and innovation in public life for the construction of a more just and equitable society is vindicated, based on the human right to science as the foundation of the policy in this area. Besides CONAHCY, the National Plan for Development (PND) is the document in which the Government of Mexico, through public consultations, explains its objectives and priority strategies during the six-year term, in this case for 2019-2024 period. The PND is designed by the federal executive branch. The Special Program for Science, Technology and Innovation (PECiTI) is the Program that CONAHCYT designs, derived from the PND, and It also considers regulations such as the Planning Law and the Political Constitution. The CONAHCYT is the entity responsible for coordinating the publication, execution and follow-up of the PECiTI. |
| Netherlands | [General comment ERA-related questions in this survey: The Netherlands' national policies are in line with the priorities within the ERA and therefore there are no specific strategies or plans related to the ERA.] Current policy debates address a number of questions, such as: - The relationship between specific and generic innovation policies: the Netherlands strongly emphasises generic research and development support policies through tax deductions, which are easy to implement. However, more specific policies involve supporting specific themes (like energy transition), technologies (like photonics) or sectors (like life sciences). This creates the need for a governance and selection process, also involving proper arrangements for monitoring and evaluation. - Public-private co-operation in designing and implementing science, technology and innovation (STI) policies: the Netherlands traditionally co-designs STI policies with public and private partners, so that public support promoting the adoption by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) of new technologies is delegated to 'top-sector' private companies. Likewise, selecting grants for public-private collaboration (mainly targeting companies and applied research institutes and universities) is delegated to these bodies. Now that public support is shifting towards research and innovation missions targeting societal challenges (health, agri-food, security, energy transition), new arrangements may be needed for public-private co-operation. - Geopolitical considerations: the Netherlands must choose between 'safe and open' and 'insecure and more protected' technologies. While this is easy to administer for a number of goods (including dual-use goods), this may be more difficult when it comes to sensitive knowledge and technologies, where the Netherlands would like to co-operate and utilise the knowledge of parties abroad. This involves finding the right balance between available opportunities, and risks of unwanted transfer of knowledge and technology, as well as risks of covert influence. The Netherlands is developing and implementing several measures to help Dutch parties in the knowledge sector find that balance.* The increasingly geopolitical aspects of technology means an urgent need for clear policies on, for example, how to stay at the forefront of promising technologies, or what co-operation with other countries should look like. The Netherlands must aim to maintain a balance between looking at technologies and co-operation with an open mind and allowing co-operation, while also safeguarding national interests. - Continuing the transition towards open science, in the Netherlands and internationally (e.g. in Horizon Europe and bilateral partnerships): this involves engaging ever more researchers, businesses, publishers, data platforms and other actors while considering competitiveness, security and other factors. - Moving from triple-helix to quadruple-helix models of innovation: this entails engaging a variety of societal stakeholders throughout the science and innovation process, and in the governance structure of STI policy. - Securing sufficient opportunities for bottom-up, curiosity-driven research (particularly for science and technology policy than innovation policy): as societal challenges become more prominent in innovation policy and (to some extent) science policy, affecting the strategies of individual universities and research organisations, it is important to consider the consequences for bottom-up, curiosity-driven research. In its Coalition Agreement 2021-2025, the Netherlands' government shows firm commitment to and investments into STI along lines mentioned in the Coalition Agreement (and along which the debates on national STI policy take place):- A Minister for Climate and Energy Policy will be appointed to oversee policy and the Climate Fund. We will strengthen the implementation capacity of central government and other authorities, to ensure that transitions are made. - An independent scientific advisory body (similar to that in the United Kingdom) will assess and advise on policy. An analysis of the effects of policy plans on different generations will ensure that policy is developed on the basis of a broad definition of prosperity. We will actively involve the public in climate policy. [p.10] - Extra investments will be made in research and innovation in climate-neutral technologies. The emphasis will be on large, coordinated programmes that will also help to keep the costs of the energy transition affordable. An ambitious climate goal and implementation programme will be announced for the circular economy. The government will seek to set a good example in this respect. We will ensure that climate policy is better aligned with circularity. [p.11] - We are setting course for a knowledge-based economy, characterised by investment in independent research and development, free from outside influence, in line with the goals of the Lisbon Strategy. To this end we will set up a fund in which we will invest a total of â¬5 billion over 10 years. We will make higher education funding more predictable by removing the perverse incentive effects of enrolmentbased funding, reviewing and increasing the amount of flat-rate funding, and achieving a better balance between direct funding for research ('the first flow of funds') and funding via research organisations ('the second flow of funds'). This will provide more scope for tackling work pressure, offering staff permanent employment contracts, and maintaining a good range of higher education courses in regions with declining populations. [p.25] - We will promote a safe setting for the free exchange of ideas and safeguard academic freedom. We will establish a framework governing academic collaboration with countries where academic freedom is restricted. 'Open science' and 'open education' will be the norm, provided national security is not compromised. [p.26] - We will continue the National Growth Fund through investments in projects focused on knowledge building, research, development and innovation. In this way we will strengthen our earning capacity and boost our economic growth in the long term. [p.32] - Public-private partnerships in knowledge and innovation will remain a key part of business policy. The top sector policy will also be continued. We will increase public investment in knowledge and innovation by establishing a science and research fund and intensifying the focus on knowledge and innovation in the Growth Fund. [p.32] - Science, business, startups, scaleups, knowledge coalitions and government will join forces to capitalise on the opportunities offered by digital technology. We will stimulate innovation and invest in chip technology and key technologies such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing. [p.33] At European level we will address the market power and data power of big tech and platform companies to improve the competitiveness of businesses and better protect the privacy of citizens. [p.32] - Specifically in science policy (as further descrived in the higher education and science policy letter) the government has set three main objectives (with connecting instruments) to make the system future-proof, and address both material needs and immaterial concerns: (1) strengthening of the foundations (2) on the basis of a strong fundament scope for a range of talents can be created 3) work on enhancing the societal impact - and public recognition - of higher education and research. These 3 objectives are based on the following considerations: - Prioritizing investments that address demonstrable financial deficits in higher education and science. - Investing in the whole higher education chain, blue sky fundamental research, applied and practice-oriented research, and knowledge utilization. - Investing in research infrastructure and European and international collaboration. - Focusing on essential conditions needed for guaranteeing a healthy culture for students and employees, such as reducing the pressure of work and pressure to perform, stimulating the recognition and rewards programme, social safety, open science and education, and knowledge security. - A healthy knowledge ecosystem is more than just the sum of its parts. If, during the design stage of instruments, account is taken of how they are related to other instruments in the system, the effectiveness of every instrument will be enhanced and the system will become a coherent structure. -Enabling institutions to make their own individual strategic choices in education and research. This will allow institutions to focus more strongly on specific disciplines and themes, and thereby excel at them. The Netherlands is capable of competing on the world stage in every field, but not everybody has to do everything. This requires greater collaboration and a division of tasks among institutions so that knowledge institutions and regions can exploit their strengths to the full. - These choices involve making a distinction between incidental investments with a more urgent function (from the Research and Science Fund) and structural investments. - Other considerations when using the instruments include a healthy level of competition - and therefore excellence and impact - to ensure that the resources for research and research infrastructure are allocated to the most suitable people, teams, and organizations; making as much use as possible of existing instruments that have proved themselves in practice; the use of European collaborative partnerships, and where possible the deployment of non-financial instruments (such as administrative agreements). - When making agreements on methods of accountability, monitoring, and evaluation, these should be based on finding a suitable balance between trust and accountability. |
| New Zealand | The government has initiated a multi-year programme, Te Ara Paerangi - Future Pathways, intended to expand and reshape the research and innovation system. The programme's White Paper, released in December 2022, sets forth a vision for a future-oriented Research, Science, and Innovation (RSI) system centred on four principal areas of reform: (1) Creating new futures by focusing on the most important challenges and opportunities for our well-being. (2) Incorporating Te Tiriti and Māori aspirations into the RSI system's design. (3) Valuing our people by building a RSI system that truly supports a proficient and diverse workforce. (4) Enhancing system agility through a sustainable, resilient, and cohesive system capable of adapting to new challenges and opportunities. The policy directions derived from these objectives aim to shift the system so that it is more centred on research priorities of national significance. Furthermore, it should be responsive to Māori needs and values, attract and retain a talented and diverse workforce, and ensure its institutions are resilient and adaptable in a changing environment. |
| Norway | Norway's first white paper on research was published in 1975 and has since been revised according to the four-year election cycle. The plan is revised every four years (for a new ten-year span) to accommodate changes in the political and societal landscape. The plan has been revised twice since 2014, in 2018 and 2022. The current long-term plan covers the period of 2023-2032 and specifies objectives and priority areas for the upcoming four years. It serves as one of the main tools for coordinating the government's research policy. In the recently revised Long-term Plan for Research and Higher Education (2023-2032), two national missions are introduced that align with the SDGs: Sustainable feed for lifestock and fish farming and Including more children and young people in Education, Labour market and Sivil society. These missions are currently in the design- and implementation (planning) phase, involving relevant ministries, agencies, and research-performing organisations (RPOs). Additionally, the relevant ministries, Research Council of Norway (RCN), and Innovation Norway are actively involved in the governance of the national implementation of the five European missions under Horizon Europe. |
| Peru | The National Policy for Science, Technology, and Innovation (POLCTI) is being updated. Looking towards 2030, the POLCTI aims for Peru to become one of the world's most innovative and sustainable countries through a coordinated effort between science, technology, and innovation (STI) stakeholders. Recognising STI as a transformative driver of the national reality, its goal is to substantially increase domestic STI activities and their use to bridge social and economic gaps, explore new markets, and generate societal well-being. The legal framework of the national STI system was renewed in 2020, establishing the National System of Science, Technology, and Innovation (SINACTI). This has strengthened the stewardship of SINACTI, with the National Science Council, Technology, and Innovation (CONCYTEC) serving as the governing entity. Efforts have also been made to define the roles of SINACTI stakeholders, categorising them into policy-defining entities (e.g., CONCYTEC), implementing entities (e.g., public financing agencies), and executing entities (e.g., universities) of the POLCTI. The ongoing debates revolve around strengthening the institutional framework at the strategic, implementation, and execution levels of SINACTI. This includes enhancing the social integration of STI in society, developing high-level human capital among SINACTI stakeholders, improving the generation of scientific and technological knowledge aligned with national priorities, promoting innovation, and creating a favourable financial environment for STI development that benefits all SINACTI stakeholders. |
| Poland | Recent geopolitical changes, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, triggered by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, and Russia's severe aggression in Ukraine, which threatens Europe's economic development, have significantly influenced discussions in Poland and European dialogues across all sectors of social and economic life, including the STI policy. Understandably, these factors have also influenced the objectives set by the science and research sector. Changes in geopolitical conditions, however, did not disrupt the steady and planned activities associated with the evolution of STI policy in Poland: - Planning and negotiating funds for research, development, and innovation within the framework of European Union funds. - Development and adoption of a document defining the new scientific policy of the state. The European Union's Structural Measures budget period of 2014-2020, financially concluding in 2023, resulted in numerous reporting and evaluation studies on the outcomes and findings of the implemented programmes. Over the forthcoming three, five, or more years, the assets generated will undergo supervisory and monitoring activities by public authorities. These formed the foundation for discussion and development plans for the financial perspective 2021-2027 of the European Union. The largest Programme - Funds for the Modern Economy (FENG) in the perspective 2021-2027 introduces a new, modular approach to projects. An obligatory element of the project will be a research and development module or a module for investments in R&D infrastructure. The scope of the project may be supplemented by the applicant, depending on the needs of the company, with activities such as: implementation of research results, development of competences among employees and managerial staff, internationalization, digitization related to Industry 4.0, "greening" of enterprises. Agreements were signed with the European Commission on national operational programmes and 16 regional programmes, largely concerning issues of innovation, R&D support, and particularly, activities related to climate protection. Individual regional programmes differ from each other to some extent. However, in each of them there is a priority regarding public R&D infrastructure or/and support for innovative activities of entrepreneurs. Regional Programmes will implement activities in line with Regional Smart Specializations developed in the regions. In Poland, public administration bodies comprise not only central government administration entities, but also, among others, regional self-government unit bodies, which also conduct STI and innovation policy within their competencies. A significant budget supporting innovation in firms and innovative entrepreneurships is available at the regional level in 16 regional programmes co-funded with structural funds for 2021-2027. Almost 2,5 billion euro would support R&D, R&D infrastructure, commercialisation of knowledge, support for local clusters, innovation in SMEs, innovative services for SMEs via business support institutions. There is also a debate on the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, which incorporates many key investments essential for the evolution of research and innovation in Poland. After extensive social debate, the Council of Ministers approved the assumptions of the State Scientific Policy on 19 July 2022, a strategic document underpinning the development of science and higher education in Poland in the forthcoming years. Another matter under discussion is the need to enhance the current growth rate of expenditure on R&D, which is one of the objectives of Poland's economic strategy, and to improve Poland's standing in international innovation indices, including enhancing the efficiency of spending funds on research, science, and innovation. The instruments supporting innovation are also being debated. Several tax reliefs have been introduced recently, the application of which is the subject of intense debate between government institutions and groups representing entrepreneurs, researchers interested in creating university start-ups, or spin-offs. Those entitled to the relief are primarily those who conduct research and development activities in the Polish area (business entities, persons, start-up, spin-off). Their activities should be related to conduct scientific research, development works, not one-off, but systematically carried out. |
| Portugal | Current national strategies, agendas, and plans have been developed along the following main axes: R&D in general; industrial innovation; digital and green transitions; space; oceans; environment; regional innovation ecosystems; and tourism. These initiatives convey the sectoral priorities embedded in earlier sectoral and STI debates. The multiple policy goals require refining the gears of the national science, technology, and innovation (STI) system to consolidate the implementation of an overarching vision. The complexity of the challenges, intrinsic inter/multi/transdisciplinarity of research and technological solutions, and the horizontal spread of demand for new knowledge and technology require improved coherence and specialisation of the system and consistent research and innovation prioritisation. The sectoral actors also perceive this need as a significant driver for success when defining their own priorities. In this sense, further improvement of the governance model of the national STI system seems to be crucial, maintaining a continuous balance between horizontal and vertical dynamics. Ensuring the best articulation between the various funding instances of the STI system, particularly in the Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP) context, adds complexity to the governance model. Conversely, during this period, while engaging in international debates, Portugal also discussed: i) the role of science in evidence-based policy making - diagnosing the main national challenges in this complex and non-linear social process; and ii) Strategic Research and Innovation Foresight for future-proof and resilient policy making. Worth mentioning in this regard is the creation of PlanAPP, a Competence Centre for Planning, Policy and Foresight in Public Administration (established in 2021), as well as the 'Science in Public Policies' prize, a joint partnership with Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia - FCT, and the Joint Research Centre (JCR) of the European Commission - to promote and enhance science culture in public policy. Further articulation of academic and non-academic sectors, particularly through transferring highly qualified human resources (mainly through employment contracts), is under early debate and could potentially lead to a more diversified funding portfolio. Other related catalytic subjects on the national (and international) agenda include: i) transforming academic careers (in the science sector and higher education sector - public and private) into sustainable and attractive ones, democratising access, and addressing precariousness; and, in parallel, ii) promoting alternative paths to research careers and a new mindset that enables doctorates to opt for jobs outside academia, where their advanced training is valued and not seen as a less worthy choice. These emerging debates will certainly result in a future shift in the share of responsibilities and benefits across the STI system, HEIs, and society at large, including enterprises, the public administration, and the third sector, impacting the governance model and necessitating new adjustments and solutions. Adjustments in the regulation that governs HEIs (Legal Regime of Higher Education Institutions (RJIES published in 2007: Law nº 62/2007) are likely to take place to accommodate issues such as autonomy and complexity in Higher Education, as well as equity/diversity/inclusion (EDI) and the innovation of curricula to account for the evolution of professions and the need for new skills. For this purpose, a Working Group was created (Dispatch nº 764/2023, January 16). These discussions will also address the emerging challenges for the governance of the R&D units, which are often part of the universities and polytechnic ecosystem, and as such, for the STI governance itself. Under a new paradigm - a more qualitative, responsible, and inclusive assessment, as discussed in several European fora - the next assessment process of R&D units, taking place throughout 2023 and 2024, will contribute to better governance and translate into a stronger R&D units' ecosystem, and consequently, a better grasp of the current capabilities of the STI System. |
| Republic of North Macedonia | The mapping of the policy measures conducted during the designing process of the Smart Specialization Strategy points to fragmentation in the innovation ecosystem, with many institutions overlapping in jurisdictions and lack of coordination thereof. It also shows overlapping measures of support providing direct public financing for private companies and gaps in support measures regarding academia-industry cooperation, as well as risk capital investments. |
| Romania | The institutional framework for Research and Innovation (R&I) has evolved over the past few decades, as part of the transition from a centralised to a market economy. The results of general elections and the various compositions of governing coalitions have led to modifications to the R&D governance system. This includes the creation of new entities and shifts in responsibilities among existing ones, such as the Parliament's Commission for Science and Technology (Chamber of Deputies), the Government's Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digitalisation (MCID), the Romanian Academy, and various executive agencies. In July 2022, the Romanian government approved the National Strategy for Research, Innovation and Smart Specialisation 2022-2027 (SNCISI) through Governmental Decision no. 933/2022. The SNCISI is the principal policy document related to research and innovation, and it spans several areas. Following this, the National Plan for Research, Development and Innovation 2022-2027 (PNCDI 4), which serves as SNCISI's main implementation tool, was ratified through Governmental Decision no. 1188/2022. In addition, two other instruments will contribute to achieving the SNCISI's objectives: the Operational Programme for Smart Growth, Digitalisation and Financial Instruments (POCIDIF), approved by the European Commission COM(2022)9445 final, and the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR). All these instruments and policy papers are integral to the overarching reform of the research and innovation system. These tools are grounded on recommendations given by independent experts in the final report of the European Commission's Policy Support Facility (2021-2022). Moreover, some recommendations are yet to be enacted by the Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digitalisation (MCID), with assistance from the World Bank. PNCDI 4 will be implemented using Romanian financial resources, while POCIDIF and PNRR will be funded by the European Commission, and co-funded in certain instances by the Romanian Government. |
| Serbia | In Serbia, significant steps have been taken to strengthen STI governance and enhance the country's position as an STI location. These actions are driven by the aim to align Serbia's innovation system with European Research Area and Innovation Union standards. A notable restructuring took place with the appointment of a new government in October 2022. The former Ministry of Education, Science, and Technological Development was divided into two entities: the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Science, Technological Development, and Innovation (NITRA). NITRA has been entrusted with the oversight of the Research & Development (R&D) and innovation sectors. This division allows for more focused efforts in improving STI performance both nationally and internationally. Main achievements: The Law on Innovation Activity, effective since January 5, 2022, represents a significant milestone. It aligns Serbia's innovation system with the European Research Area and Innovation Union. Key innovations introduced by this law included the definition of new innovative entities, particularly startups and spinoffs, as newly established companies or entrepreneurs engaged in developing innovative products or services with substantial growth potential. The law also recognizes investors in innovation, including business angels. Serbia's commitment to open science is evident through the Revised Law on Science and Research, enacted on July 8, 2019. This law places open science as a fundamental principle within the scientific and research landscape. Ongoing Revisions: However, Serbia is actively working on realignments, legal improvements, and strategic advancements to bolster its position in the RTI landscape, guided by the principles of openness, innovation, and European integration. At present, the Ministry is actively working on the revision of both the Law on Innovation Activity and the Law on Science and Research. Two dedicated working groups have been established to further enhance these laws. The primary objective is to align these two legal frameworks more effectively. The revision process also aims to accommodate new developments in Research infrastructure investments, such as the BioCampus initiative. Debates: - Finalizing the reform of institutional funding is significant challenge on the agenda. - Finding effective strategies to enhance technology transfer and facilitate knowledge diffusion is an additional challenge. |
| Slovak Republic | The Slovak Republic has limited resources and capacity, so there are only a limited number of priorities on which the government and strategies focus. Major changes in the economic policy of the state are necessary and must concern in particular the financing of the research and development sector. Here, the main objective is to increase private sector investment to 0.6 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) by 2024, with total spending at 1.2 percent of GDP. The attention is also on strengthening and professionalizing supra-ministerial coordination of research and innovation, as well as resolving the current fragmentation and non-conceptual management with insufficient links to economic and social practice. There are many different issues, that need to be addressed, such as: - support for international cooperation and involvement in Horizon Europe and EIT projects, - support for cooperation between companies, the academic sector and R&D organizations, - excellent science, - research and innovation for the decarbonization of economies, - research and innovation for the digitalization of the economy, - attracting new talent - and IT support for the unified R&D grant system, To improve Slovakia's R&D performance and innovation potential, reforms and increased funding are more than necessary and remain a major challenge for the R&D and innovation ecosystem. |
| Slovenia | Within the framework of its strategic orientations in the field of science and innovation, Slovenia has set itself ambitious development plans, among which is to become one of the leading innovator countries in the European Innovation Scoreboard (EIS) by 2030. In line with this, Slovenia has been adopting key structural reforms in recent years aimed at modernising its national science and innovation (R&I) ecosystem. One such change in the area of STI is the amendment of the Law on Scientific Research and Innovation Activities (ZZrID), which was adopted by the legislator in early 2023 and which, in synchrony with the reform of the government structure (establishment of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation), also links the field and policies of science and innovation at the operational level. In accordance with the proposed amendment to the legislation, a single executive agency (the Research and Innovation Funding Office - RFO) for science and innovation will be established in Slovenia on the basis of the two existing agencies, namely the Slovenian Public Agency for Research and the Slovenian Public Agency for the Promotion of Entrepreneurship, Internationalisation, Foreign Investment and Technology - SPIRIT Slovenia, through which coordinated funding of scientific research and innovation activities will be ensured. Besides the new changes, the implementation of the new act, which was adopted in 2021 and which provides ne elements and tools for bigger autonomy of public research organisations and their ability to address long-term strategic issues is in the process. Open science principles which require significant changes in governance of institutions and the STI system, are also important. New regulation in the field of open science is the process of adoption; the regulation which will provide, in line with the Resolution on the Slovenian Scientific Research and innovation Strategy 2030, action plan and financed activities, funded from Recovery and Resilience Fund, the main tools for implementing important changes. At the policy level, the implementation of 'smart directionality' principles is also important. The inclusion of research in different sectoral policies is key for 'knowledge-based decision-making'. The new agency will be an important tool for the implementation of the smart directionality approach. Scientific research and innovation activity should become a supporting pillar of progress with an appropriate priority of state policy and funding above the EU average. With the regulation and strategies in place we set the goal to improve efficiency of the measures for research and innovation, to foster cooperation and improved opportunities for global excellence, as well as greater opportunities for international cooperation and the development of a modern innovation ecosystem. Slovenia has well developed environment for start-ups and innovators and established system for tax incentives for investments in research and development. More effort must be put into actions and conditions for connecting various stakeholders and to learn about as well as derive new innovative projects that expand the limits of development. New technologies, the life cycle of products, the necessity of exploiting local materials and raw materials from waste as well as increasing global competition enhance the importance of innovation not only for the future development of enterprises, but also for their long-term survival. ERA is implemented as an integral part of an existing national Scientific Research and Innovation Activities Act and Resolution on the Slovenian Scientific Research and innovation Strategy 2030. We are not specifically engaged in the implementation of Action 11 and 15, however we are active in the Action 10 and 12, where interlinkages between R&I actors have been increased, namely engaging Ministry of Economic development and technology in Action 12 and interministerial consultations within missions sub-groups in Horizon Europe. As a part of an Action 10 is also a Partnership Knowledge Hub, we can report that national coordination of partnerships is also established and frequency of meetings depends on the type of partnership (more often for co-funded and co-programmed). Slovenia is curently implementing Action 3 through seven signatories of the Coalition for Advancing Research Assessment (CoARA). They are University of Novo mesto, Institute of Contemporary History, University of Maribor, Slovenian Research Agency, University of Ljubljana, Jožef Stefan Institute and The Young Academy of Slovenia. Ministry is in the process of establishing a short study- interdepartmental research projects within the framework of Targeted Research Programs (CRP) to support the strategic development of Slovenia with content related to the reform of science assessment in Slovenia through the activities of the agency. It is also active in the organization of workshops where it is enabling exchange of lessons learned between national activities. Slovenia is not participating in the implementation of Action 6. Action 9 is implemented via active participation in the ERA Forum subgroup for international cooperation. |
| South Africa | The main policy focus of the Department of Science and Innovation remains to implement the 2019 White Paper on Science, Technology, and Innovation through the 2021-2031 Decadal Plan. These documents are now the principal policy guiding South Africa's National System of Innovation and commit the country to advance the role of STI in socio-economic development. Emphasising the core themes of inclusivity, transformation, and partnerships for an innovative society and economy, the Decadal Plan is the country's roadmap for driving STI policy and programs over the next ten years. It also acts as a government-wide master plan, fostering interdepartmental collaboration, primarily with the Departments of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development; Mineral Resources and Energy; Health; and Trade, Industry, and Competition. Aligned with the National Development Plan and informed by the South Africa Foresight Exercise for Science, Technology, and Innovation 2030 (SAForSTI), the Decadal Plan plays a crucial role in shaping the future of STI in South Africa. |
| Spain | Science and innovation are perceived as essential levers to address societal challenges, particularly those related to the climate-neutral and digital transition of the economy and health and social well-being. Indeed, Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) have been pivotal tools for crisis recovery. At the same time, a consensus exists that the challenges Spain faces are global priorities that must be tackled through international engagement, positioning STI policies at the forefront. Given this backdrop, government, economic and social actors recognise the need to further strengthen research and innovation capabilities and structures and enhance the governance of the STI system. This enhancement should favour co-operation and synergies at all levels (national, regional, European and international), and actively promote knowledge transfer and exchanges between the public and private sectors, as well as within society. Advancing policy objectives has required various reforms and legislative amendments, such as the partial modification of the Spanish main Act for STI, approved in September 2022. This amendment has significantly revised the governing structures. The reformed Law envisages the Spanish Strategy for Science, Technology, and Innovation (EECTI in Spanish) as a joint governance tool for research and innovation. It serves as a reference for the holistic definition of STI plans involving different public administrations and for their alignment with the research policies of the European Union (EU) and International Organisations. The already existing EECTI 2021-2027 was designed to maximise coordination between national and regional planning and streamline the integration of Spanish STI policy with EU policies, fostering synergies between existing programmes at regional, national and European levels. This coordination is particularly crucial with Horizon Europe, Cohesion Funds, and the Recovery and Resilience Facility. Another key aspect of the EECTI was introducing policy and instrument monitoring and evaluation arrangements to achieve established objectives. Following the recommendations from the European Commission, two specific working groups were launched in 2021 to monitor the EECTI and State Plans. Along such lines, the Institutionalisation of Public Policy Evaluation Act was also approved at the end of 2022. Additionally, the EECTI prioritises and addresses the challenges of the national strategic sectors by promoting selected STI activities, including knowledge transfer. To tackle these challenges, the EECTI encourages the participation of all stakeholders through a monitoring committee comprising representatives from national and regional administrations, the private sector, academia, and civil society. Furthermore, NextGenerationEU and Recovery Funds, and the Spanish Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan (PRTR in Spanish) have become central to the development of STI policy. The EU's overarching objectives of building a more resilient, green and digital economy have also informed the governance of STI policy, with the development of specific plans such as those integrated into the Strategic Energy and Climate Framework or the Digital Spain Agenda 2026. This includes the National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence (ENIA in Spanish) and the promotion of new multilevel mechanisms for addressing governance challenges, such as improving the coordination with and between Autonomous Communities, which includes a new generation of policy and funding tools (e.g., Planes Complementarios). Finally, Spain will continue to contribute to the European Research Area's (ERA) governance agenda. The country will keep strengthening its coordination structures related to missions and partnerships, addressing their objectives from planning to implementation. It will also continue to foster synergies between actions promoted at European, national, regional, and local levels, and to encourage alignment of Spanish research strategies, programmes, and agendas across European Partnerships. Furthermore, Spain is actively participating in the ERA Actions by distributing tasks and responsibilities among appropriate actors at the national level. Spain aligns its objectives with the new European political context concerning the Green Transition, primarily through its commitment to the Strategic Plan for Energy Technologies (SET-Plan) and its revamping. |
| Sweden | Sweden ranked as number 1 in the European Innovation Scoreboard published in December 2022. The strength of the ecosystem lies in its highly educated population, high-quality research, extensive use of digital technologies, and effective private and public investment and financial support for innovation. Research funding is governed by research bills presented to parliament every four years, which outline the overall structure of new funds or reallocate existing funds. These bills also govern innovation policies based on research. In preparation for the next bill, scheduled for presentation in 2024, a committee is currently reviewing the structure and organisation of the Swedish research funding organisation (RFO) landscape. In parallel, an energy research bill will be presented. Additionally, a climate action plan will be unveiled in the autumn of 2023. |
| Switzerland | In Switzerland, research and innovation (R&I) are highly valued for their contributions to public welfare, sustainable development, internal cohesion, and cultural diversity. The Swiss Federal Council recognizes that research generates new knowledge, while innovation is crucial for market success. As a result, R&I are prioritized areas of policy focus. The Swiss education, research, and innovation system (ERI) are known for their efficiency, coherence, international compatibility, and future-oriented approach. The success of the ERI system can be attributed to two main factors. First, both public and private sector actors follow a partnership approach, with a shared understanding that the ERI system should be carefully developed further. Second, both the federal government and the cantons consider the promotion of ERI as a high priority, leading to significant increases in public spending on ERI since the mid-1990s. There is a political consensus in Switzerland that the current ERI policy is successful and should be continued along the same lines. However, recent discussions in the science, technology, and innovation (STI) domain have focused on several key issues: 1. The parliamentary consultation procedure for the new ERI Dispatch for the period 2025-2028 began in May 2023. The main objectives of the Dispatch are to ensure equal opportunities in Switzerland as an ERI location, provide the economy with skilled workers, and strengthen social cohesion. The Dispatch emphasizes the importance of innovation, digitalization, and collaboration for a strong and competitive future. It also recognizes the role of the ERI system in sustainable development. 2. The rapid pace of technological advancements and significant global developments, such as climate change, digitalization, globalization, and geopolitical shifts, pose challenges for the ERI system. Addressing these developments, along with their associated risks and opportunities, while fostering flexibility and resilience in society and the economy, is a priority. 3. Switzerland intends to maintain full association with the "Horizon Europe" program, which supports research and innovation at the European Union level. However, as of May 2023, negotiations on this matter have not yet taken place. Therefore, Switzerland is currently treated as a non-associated third country. Overall, Switzerland aims to ensure that its ERI system remains dynamic and responsive to emerging challenges and opportunities. The ongoing discussions and policy initiatives reflect the commitment to foster innovation, digitalization, collaboration, equal opportunities, and sustainable development for a strong and competitive future. |
| Thailand | Science, technology, and innovation (STI) in Thailand are overseen by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation (MHESI). Established in May 2019, the ministry is the result of merging the Ministry of Science and Technology with the Office of the Higher Education Commission, including higher education institutes. Additionally, the National Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation Policy Council (Policy Council) was formed to oversee higher education and STI policies, their implementation, and budget allocation. Chaired by the Prime Minister, the Policy Council comprises relevant ministers, leading organisations, and appointed experts. The National Committee on Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation Reform was also established in 2019, alongside the Policy Council. Its mission is to design and oversee the implementation of new systems and mechanisms after the merger, covering Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation Structure, Policy, Strategy, and Plan Management, Budget Allocation and Management, Monitoring and Evaluation, and Data Integration. Two subcommittees were created under the Policy Council to address crucial issues: the innovation ecosystem and educational innovation. The innovation ecosystem subcommittee focuses on reviewing and revising the legal framework to enrich Thailand's innovation ecosystem, while the subcommittee on educational innovation aims to introduce new educational innovations under a sandbox approach. In December 2022, the cabinet approved the Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation Policy and Strategy 2023-2027 proposed by the Policy Council. The policy and strategy aim to integrate higher education and science to drive transformative change for Thailand, fostering a sustainable economic growth and inclusive society. The strategic areas include developing a value-driven and creative economy, enabling sustainable social and environmental development, advancing frontier science, and enhancing manpower, higher education, and research institutes for leapfrog and sustainable development. The framework emphasises coherence and connection between planning, budgeting, evaluation, and monitoring to support the strategic goals. To monitor STI progress, data on R&D expenditure and R&D manpower from public and private organisations are compiled annually as STI indicators. Total R&D expenditure has experienced steady growth since 2011, with gross expenditures on R&D (GERD) reaching THB 208 billion or 1.33% of GDP in 2020, compared to 1.14% in the previous year. The public sector contributed THB 66.3 billion (32%), while the industry contributed THB 141.7 billion (68%). The number of full-time equivalent R&D personnel in 2020 was 168,419 or 25 per 10,000 people, representing a 1% increase from the previous year. |
| Türkiye | Key actors in the governance of the national STI ecosystem include the Science, Technology and Innovation Policies Council (STIPC), the Presidency of Strategy and Budget, the Ministry of Industry and Technology, the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye (TÜBITAK), the Ministry of Treasury and Finance, the Ministry of Trade, and sectoral ministries in the fields of agriculture, energy, environment, climate change, health, transportation, the Council of Higher Education (CoHE), and affiliated agencies such as the Small and Medium Industry Development Organization (KOSGEB) and the Digital Transformation Office (DTO).Global challenges such as climate change, digital transformation, and natural disasters need the development of an inclusive and collaborative innovation environment. Target-oriented and collaborative initiatives are crucial for research and innovation processes, particularly in response to societal challenges. The national STI ecosystem aims to foster sustainability, resilience, and inclusivity by promoting interactions between universities, industry, the public, and society. The coordination of research and innovation policies in Türkiye is overseen at the presidential level through the STIPC studies and Development Plans. The Council formulates policies, recommends STI strategies, identifies strategic technology areas, and evaluates the national STI ecosystem. The Eleventh Development Plan and the upcoming Twelfth Development Plan serve as strategic frameworks for STI policies in Türkiye. They emphasise the importance of knowledge production, R&D, and innovation ecosystems to enhance value-added production and support high-tech sectors. The priority sectors determined in The Eleventh Development Plan (2019- 2023) are as follows: chemicals; pharmaceuticals and medical devices; electronics; machines and electrical equipment; and automotive and rail systems. The critical technologies where human resources are to be further supported and infrastructures established are as follows: AI, IoT, augmented reality, big data, cybersecurity, energy storage, advanced materials, robotics, micro-nano electromechanical systems, biotechnology, quantum technologies, sensors and additive manufacturing technologies. Medium-term programmes (three-year perspective) and annual programmes are also prepared in accordance with the Development Plans, to ensure its efficient implementation. As of 2023, the Twelfth Development Plan is under preparation in a participatory manner. The Twelfth Development Plan, which will advance our long-term objectives through a sustainable development approach, will encompass the years 2024 to 2028 in accordance with the 2053 vision, will serve as the strategic framework for the steps to be taken to make our country a global power centre. Considering the year 2023, which marks the 100th anniversary of the Republic of Türkiye, the targets for industry and technology have been determined within the scope of the '2023 Industry and Technology Strategy', which has been prepared and published by the Ministry of Industry and Technology in September 2019 and it is still the most up-to-date document in this field. "Türkiye's 2023 Industry and Technology Strategy" was set forth aiming for 'National Technology Robust Industry' (National Technology Move). The Strategy comprises of 5 components: 'High technology and Innovation', 'Digital Transformation and Industry Move', 'Entrepreneurship', 'Human Resources' and 'Infrastructure'. The current Development Plan also references "Türkiye's 2023 Industry and Technology Strategy' and National Technology Move. Türkiye has set a '2053 Net Zero Emission Target' and is actively working toward green and sustainable growth. STIPC has initially launched studies for national initiatives on critical raw materials, fusion technologies, digital agriculture and hyperloop/maglev technologies. Additionally, the Ministry of Trade's Green Deal Action Plan aims to facilitate the transition of Türkiye to a sustainable and greener economy by implementing specific objectives and actions. Türkiye recognises the importance of data and digital transformation, and the Government has developed strategies and initiatives such as the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy and Public Cloud Computing Strategy to promote responsible AI and information security. The country also supports green transformation through various policies and roadmaps, focusing on sectors such as iron and steel, aluminium, cement, fertilizers, chemicals, and plastics. Collaboration among universities, government institutions, and industry is essential for tackling climate change and achieving the 2053 Net Zero Emission Target. With the collaboration of TUBITAK and the Presidency of Climate Change, Türkiye has established a specific research institute within TUBITAK as The Research Institute for Clean Energy, Climate Change and Sustainability.RDI support programs, high technology platform supports, industrial innovation networks support mechanism and STI Human Resources Grants and Fellowships prioritise sustainable solutions and green technologies. Türkiye's commitment to science, research, and innovation is evident in its participation in EU Framework Programmes and its active engagement in the activities of the European Research Area and Innovation Committee (ERAC). The country has also held high-level dialogue meetings with the EU to explore cooperation in areas such as the Green Deal and Industry 4.0. |
| Ukraine | Currently, innovation policy is designed by four ministries: 1) Ministry of Education and Science (MES) of Ukraine: its main function is the formation and implementation of government policy in the field of education and science. MES also directs scientific, technology and innovation (STI) activities and technology transfer. It also provides government supervision of activities performed by educational institutions (all forms of ownership), as well as enterprises, institutions and organisations that provide educational services or act as third-party suppliers of such services. 2) Ministry of Economy of Ukraine: ensures the formation and implementation of government policy in the field of innovation in the real sector of the economy. 3) Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine: ensures the formation and implementation of government policy in the field of digital innovations and technologies. 4) Ministry of Strategic Industries of Ukraine: ensures the formation and implementation of government policy in the field of innovation in strategic industries. There exists a need to define a co-ordinating body in the field of innovation, as the absence of such a body complicates the development of effective joint policy decisions. The debate on the definition of a co-ordinating body for innovation continues. During the war, the field of science and innovation suffered significant losses, which significantly affected its subjects, infrastructure, and mechanism of operation. As a result, there currently exist virtually no conditions for professional implementation of science, including for young people, as well as incentives for scientists to remain in the field. Currently, the main problem in the field of science and innovation is the impossibility of carrying out scientific and innovative activities at a high level both in full (in regions temporarily occupied or affected by shelling) and partially (in other regions of Ukraine). The reasons for this are: - human casualties among employees of higher education institutions, scientific institutions; - departure of scientists to other countries; - complications regarding the continuation of scientific, scientific-technical and innovative activities by forcibly displaced scientists; - destruction of infrastructure, in particular research and innovation; - impossibility of implementation and/or continuation of scientific, scientific-technical and innovative projects due to termination of funding; - a drop in the demand for new technological solutions (with the exception of the defense industry), as well as the ability of enterprises to implement them, a low level of commercialization of scientific results, technology transfer and, in general, interaction between the spheres of science and industry. On October 12, 2021, an agreement was signed between Ukraine of the one part and the European Union and European Atomic Energy Community of the other part, on the participation of Ukraine in Horizon Europe - the Framework Programme for Research and Innovation and the Research and Training Programme of the European Atomic Energy Community (2021-2025) complementing Horizon Europe - the Framework Programme for Research and Innovation. For the Agreement to enter into force, it was necessary to ratify it. However, the issue of payment of Ukraine's contribution for 2021 was not resolved, the corresponding budget program did not cover the needs for 2022. Nevertheless, in May 2022, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted the Law of Ukraine on the ratification of the above Agreement, and in June, after the exchange of official notes Ukraine received the status of an associated country in the Horizon Europe program. |
| United Kingdom | The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) was founded on 7 February 2023 by the Prime Minister to deliver on government's ambition to be a global science, research, and technology powerhouse. The department focuses on positioning the UK at the forefront of global scientific and technological advancement. DSIT's priorities for 2023 are: 1. Optimise public R&D investment to support areas of relative UK strength and increase the level of private R&D to make our economy the most innovative in the world. 2. Promote a diverse research and innovation system that connects discovery to new companies, growth and jobs - including by delivering world-class physical and digital infrastructure (such as gigabit broadband), making the UK the best place to start and grow a technology business and developing and attracting top talent. 3. Put our public services - including the NHS and schools - at the forefront of innovation, championing new ways of working and the development of in-house STEM capability to improve outcomes for people. 4. Strengthen international collaboration on science and technology in line with the Integrated Review, and ensure our researchers are able to continue to work with leading scientists in Europe and around the world. 5. Deliver key legislative and regulatory reforms to drive competition and promote innovation, including the Data Protection and Digital Information Bill, the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumer Bill and our pro-innovation approach to regulating AI. 6. Pass the remaining stages of the reformed Online Safety Bill to keep British people, especially children, safe online. The first major publication of the new department was the Science and Technology Framework, a strategy document setting out the ten things that the Government must do to support the UK to become a Science Superpower, with a vision set out to 2030. Delivery of this strategy is overseen by the National Science and Technology Council, a Cabinet sub-committee. The framework focuses on: - identifying critical technologies - signalling the UK's strengths and ambitions - investment in R&D - talent and skills - financing innovative science and technology companies - procurement - international opportunities - access to physical and digital infrastructure - regulation and standards - innovative public sector. |
| Viet Nam | Currently, Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) policies in Vietnam are focused on the following areas: Firstly, they aim to innovate the mechanisms of Science and Technology (S&T) and innovation activities while improving state management capacity in these fields. This includes amending and perfecting the legal system related to S&T, adapting it to meet the evolving requirements of science, technology, and innovation development. There's a comprehensive renovation of management activities and S&T tasks implementation at all levels to ensure publicity, transparency, objectivity, and simplification of administrative procedures. Secondly, building a national innovation system is a primary focus. The goal is to develop a national innovation ecosystem closely integrated with regional and global counterparts. This includes the development of national innovation centres, regional innovation centres, and start-up support centres. The aim is to create clusters of innovation links associated with high-tech zones, residential areas, financial centres, venture capital funds, universities, and research institutes. Thirdly, policies aim to attract and use all investment resources effectively for S&T and innovation. The goal is to secure S&T and innovation spending from 2% or more of the total annual government budget expenditure, increasing it in line with the development requirements of STI activities. Steps are also being taken to create favourable conditions to encourage enterprises to establish funds for S&T and innovation activities. Further enhancements to the public-private partnership mechanism are planned, along with legal provisions for angel investment, venture capital funds, community investment funds, and digital technology platforms. This aims to mobilise more investment resources for science, technology and innovation. Fourthly, development of research institutes, universities, and other S&T organisations with strong research capabilities is prioritised. The legal regulations surrounding the autonomy mechanism of public S&T organisations are being perfected. This also includes restructuring the system of public research institutes and implementing policies that enable universities to become centres of scientific research, technology development, and a source of knowledge for innovation activities. Lastly, there's a focus on developing high-quality human resources with creative capacity. Policies are being implemented to prepare human resources for future science, technology, and innovation; build a team of highly qualified S&T human resources; improve the quantity and quality of human resources for science, technology, and innovation to meet business sector needs; encourage a two-way transfer of human resources between the public and private sectors; and establish supportive mechanisms and policies to attract highly qualified human resources from abroad and overseas Vietnamese to participate in domestic S&T and innovation activities. |