1. SFIC and the international dimension of the ERA Framework Riitta Mustonen – SFIC Chair / Academy of Finland NORDFORSK SEMINAR 28/2/2012

2. Context SFIC opinion on the ERA Framework adopted on 21 November 2011
It focuses on issues relevant to the SFIC area of activities, in particular on the external dimension of ERA and the EU-MS work carried out internationally vis à vis third countries
SFIC identified some of the key obstacles/issues for the completion of the external dimension of ERA at different levels (i.e. governance structures, actors, etc.)
Some recommendations/responses put forward on “what is needed” as a window of opportunities for SFIC

3. Window of opportunities for SFIC
POLICY & GOVERNANCE
GOAL: Consensus-oriented approach
PROCESSES
GOAL: Better and enhanced processes
Actors
GOAL: Willingness to take a chance
RESOURCES & INFRASTRUCTURE
GOAL: Efficient & sustainable resources/proper instruments

4. Window of opportunities for SFIC: What is needed?
POLICY & GOVERNANCE
Need for a common strategy
Need of a joint EAV definition
More coordination needed
Need of a multilateral approach
PROCESSES
Need of a practical approach
Need of mapping & methodology
Need for speedy processes
Need for strong effectiveness & impact
Need for enhanced mobility of researchers

5. Window of opportunities for SFIC: What is needed? (2)
ACTORS
Need of having willingness to take a chance
Need for knowledge and understanding
Need of a mandate
Need for a comparison of actors (roles & responsibilities)
RESOURCES & INFRASTRUCTURES
Need of resources (human and financial)
Need of proper instruments (EU and national)
Need of connections and networks

6. Window of opportunities for SFIC: External (contextual) factors
Expectations by third countries
Role of Europe (output) decreasing
Grand and societal challenges
Economic crisis and lack of financial resources
Attractiveness of Europe
The true opportunity is the development of a European Strategy for international S&T cooperation with clear European Added-Value

8. SFIC opinion on ERA Framework
SFIC proposes a comprehensive and integrated package of common research and innovation policies for the implementation of the external dimension of the ERA Framework as a window of opportunities towards the challenges ahead
SFIC strongly recommends the design of a European strategy for international STI cooperation with clear European Added-Value: the EDERA (External Dimension of the European Research Area) Strategy, which could serve as a set of common principles and guidelines for Member States in their international STI cooperation activities that could, where appropriate, be used as inspiration by all MS/ACs and EU in their respective bilateral dialogues with third countries.

9. SFIC opinion on ERA Framework (2)
The European strategy for international STI cooperation should include, as strategic recommendations:
The development of priorities and common guidelines
Better policy coordination and policy mix
The anchoring of collaboration and concentration of resources into a limited set of agreed societal challenges
The use of Horizon 2020 in a more pro-active manner in promoting international cooperation
The prioritisation of long-term sustainable cooperation models

10. SFIC opinion on ERA Framework (2)
The European strategy for international STI cooperation should include, as instruments:
The implementation of a mapping exercise focusing on existing instruments and areas for European Added-Value
SFIC should offer platforms for strengthening networking initiatives
The involvement of SFIC in regular contacts with research and innovation stakeholders
The enhanced visibility of the role of SFIC and the showcase of ERA as an effective and attractive STI cooperation partner

11. Thank you for your attention!