Challenges for science and innovation policy

Abstract

How far are the governance arrangements for the research and innovation systems fit for purpose in meeting the grand challenges we are confronted by? In the past the cloak of co-ordination has been used to disguise the superficiality of most joined-up or integrated approaches to research and innovation policies, while in reality these remained the domain of dedicated agencies and ministries. But wider socioeconomic challenges do not fall squarely within the domain of sectoral ministries (often several at a time) they also require horizontal connectivity across regions and nations, through multiple levels of governance, and across ministries. While achieving these connections is beginning to be recognised as a legitimate and necessary goal, we still lack truly effective means of getting political buy-in beyond the rhetorical level to a broad-based innovation policy. There is bound to be resistance to a more horizontal and cross-cutting innovation policy. To overcome this will mean bypassing policy lock-ins and to involve more and other stakeholders, using better mechanisms than are presently employed. The chapter asks whether the economic crisis in Europe creates an opportunity for the seismic levels of change in governance that may be required.