On the Current Impact of Politics on European Research Programmes

For a couple of years, major efforts have been under way to increase the impact of the European Research Programmes on policy, notably in the context of the continuing economic crisis (see also THINK Pieces 4/2014).

Far less visible, but probably equally important, is the trend towards an increased impact of politics on European Research Programmes. The following personal reflections raise some concerns about a possible “conservative bias” generated by this trend – and offer some very first ideas on how to address the issue.

The THINK Pieces reflect Mr.Fisch's personal views and do not represent the position of the Austrian Federal Ministry of Science, Research and Economy (BMWFW). The publication of THINK Pieces is intended to contribute to the conceptual debate on European research policy, aiming at stimulating reflection and discussion.