Research security is an essential component of the modern academic environment. Research organisations in Europe face increasing risks arising from geopolitical tensions, growing global competition, heightened interest in sensitive technologies, and attempts at foreign interference. Strengthening research security protects academic freedom, the integrity of scientific work, and the reputation of institutions and their staff, while also ensuring that the results of European research are used ethically, transparently, and in accordance with the values of the European Union.
The importance of this issue was reaffirmed by the Council of the European Union, which in May 2024 adopted the Council Recommendation on strengthening research security. The document highlights that science and academic institutions are increasingly exposed to risks associated with international cooperation, particularly in areas such as:
- unwanted knowledge transfer,
- foreign interference,
- breaches of research ethics or integrity.
1. Increasing Geopolitical Tensions and Hybrid Threats
Research and innovation are becoming increasingly strategic domains. Both state and non-state actors seek to acquire sensitive technologies, often through academic partnerships. The European Union warns of diversified, unpredictable, and hybrid threats that affect the scientific and research environment.
2. Protection of Critical Technologies and Know-how
Unwanted transfers of knowledge may undermine the security of Member States, contribute to the military capacities of third countries, or be used against the interests of the European Union. EU policy documents emphasise the risks associated with the uncontrolled transfer of critical knowledge, know-how, and technologies.
3. The Need to Strengthen the EU’s Strategic Autonomy
The European Union seeks to promote balanced international cooperation while protecting strategic technologies, without imposing undue restrictions on academic freedom and openness. The objective is to preserve an open economy while safeguarding the Union’s research capacity and scientific excellence.
4. Interference with Academic Freedom and Research Integrity
The EU highlights the risks of foreign interference in research institutions, including pressure on researchers, manipulation of research agendas, non-transparent funding, and undue influence over research collaborations. Research security has thus become an integral element of responsible and sustainable international cooperation.
The European Union does not seek to close its research ecosystem; rather, it requires that openness be accompanied by proportionate, reasonable, and transparent security measures. This approach supports high-quality research, safeguards the integrity of academic institutions, and strengthens the strategic autonomy of the European Union.