European Agricultural Research; towards a greater impact on global challenges (2014)

Two types of agricultural research receive public funding from the European Commission (EC) and its  Member States (MSs): (1) Agricultural Research sensu stricto (AR), focussing on national needs within Europe, and (2) Agricultural Research for Development (ARD) dedicated to collaboration with and in developing countries working towards the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

An area of joint interest between AR and ARD exists in terms of the policy issues that are addressed, common research themes, funders and funding mechanisms and the research institutes involved. Despite positive developments, however, insufficient coordination of European investments in AR and ARD exists. Lack of coordination between different ministries and funding mechanisms at national and at European level represents a hindrance to more effective use of public investments aimed at addressing global challenges and ultimately increasing impact on poverty alleviation.

The aim of this report is to support the SWG by answering the question of how EC funders of agricultural research can enhance cooperation between donors through (1) funding mechanisms, (2) institutional policy dialogue, and (3) coordination and alliances between AR and ARD institutions and scientists. In response, a review was made of EC instruments that supported AR and ARD during 2011-2013 and an analysis was made of ten relevant and on-going research programmes.

(excerpt from the paper's introduction)