Switzerland's participation in the European RTD framework programmes: a win–win game?

Abstract

Switzerland is participating in the European Framework Programmes for Research and Technological Development (RTD) as a non-member country. Swiss researchers can take part in joint European R&D projects on a case by case basis, with the financial support of the Swiss Federal Office for Education and Science (BBW). Between May 1991 and February 1997 the BBW distributed 135 million Sfr to 523 participants from Switzerland. However, what are the effects and benefits of this participation for Switzerland? This contribution attempts to answer this question by analysing the structure of the Swiss participation and the benefits for the Swiss R&D organisations involved. The analysis of the Swiss participation in the European RTD Framework Programmes shows that this is extremely concentrated. Two-thirds of all Swiss participants are from state universities and federal institutes of technology, whereas Swiss are more poorly represented with a total of 14% of participants. Regarding the benefits for the Swiss R&D organisations of joining European R&D projects, the increase in scientific and technological performance was named in first place. Further, existing R&D networks were strengthened and new R&D co-operations were built up. Thirdly, new fields of research were established and fourthly, industrial participants benefited by developing marketable products or services. All in all, Switzerland achieves a high level of value added from their RTD co-operation with the European Union.