Scientific Societies and Biomedical Research

Abstract

The role of scientific societies in the promotion of biomedical research is becoming increasingly important, particularly when the political and financial situations across Europe (and the world) are facing unprecedented challenges. The whole field of biomedical research in Europe is therefore in a difficult position, considering that research is usually one of the first victims of global crisis. Some signs are already quite visible. Indeed, funding and support for research are far below that which has long been promised and is needed for sustained European competitiveness and innovations in biomedicine. 1 The commitment by the European Union (EU) in 2002 (Barcelona Declaration) to gradually increase the share that the EU dedicates to research and development (R&D) to 3% of its gross domestic product (GDP) by 2010 has not been fulfilled. Currently the EU budget for research amounts to only 1.8% of its GDP. Furthermore, statistics recently published by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization showed that from 2002 to 2007 European investment had stagnated. This is clearly in contrast with the main European competitors, the United States (US) or Japan, who dedicate 2.7% and 3.4%, respectively, of GDP to R&D. In addition, China is investing massively in R&D, with a 160% increase in investment between 2002 and 2007, representing 1.75% of GDP, and a plan to increase to 2.2% of GDP