Research and technology are evolving rapidly in an increasingly complex world. In an era of geopolitical shifts, rapid technological evolutions and increasing competition, scientific values such as academic freedom, scientific integrity and research ethics are under pressure, through external influence and interference. At the same time, there is a risk of unwanted knowledge transfer and misuse of research results. Scientific knowledge and the resulting applications are increasingly being used ‘strategically’, as a tool to be stronger politically, economically or militarily. This can have a negative impact on our security and on the preservation of our knowledge and innovative capacity (impact on the researchers and innovators themselves, impact on our country and on Europe). International collaboration is crucial for scientific progress, it is in the DNA of researchers. It is an indispensable catalyst for excellent research and technology development. Consider, for example, what was possible during the COVID pandemic, by joining talent exchanges and international forces for knowledge insights and rapid vaccine production/protection.
The openness of the cooperation brings challenges and risks. Because research and innovation (R&I) is traditionally open and boundless, its results can sometimes be used ‘unwanted’: For example, for military purposes by third parties, or in contexts where human rights are violated.
These concerns, anticipating potential risks and how to deal with them, are included in the term research security (RS). In a perspective of ‘secure and responsible international cooperation’ in research, technology and innovation (RTI), RS receives great attention. We want our researchers and innovators to be adequately informed and supported. Our baseline for international RTI-cooperation is:
‘As open as possible, as protected as necessary’.
We encourage researchers to develop a culture of alertness when entering into international cooperation. This includes systematic and careful planning of joint research projects, networking, mobility activities or cooperation on research infrastructures.
When determining the own benefits of the cooperation, it is essential to also assess the potential risks, in order to manage them appropriately. A thorough risk analysis of your partnership and good cyber hygiene are important to minimize unwanted knowledge transfer. When taking any action to ensure the safe running of the project, it is crucial that these measures are proportionate.
We continue to foster international cooperation, but it is essential to remain vigilant in our country and in Europe and, to provide protection and to adopt a coherent approach to avoid abuse.
