Development of Science and Technology

Changing innovation processes and the evolution of the relative contribution made by the private and public sectors have emphasised the need for strong industry-science linkages. A well-functioning interface between the innovation and science systems is more necessary than ever to reap the economic and social benefits from public and private investments in research, ensure the vitality and quality of the science system, and improve public understanding and acceptance of science and technology and the importance of innovation. Patent regimes play an increasingly complex role in encouraging innovation, diffusing scientific and technical knowledge, and enhancing market entry and firm creation. As such, they should be subject to closer scrutiny by science, technology and innovation policy makers. Increasing participation and maintaining quality standards in tertiary education in science and technology are imperative to meet growing demand for workers with scientific and technological knowledge and skills. Complementary efforts are needed to improve mobility and the attractiveness of research careers in the public and private sectors. Improving the accountability of science and technology policy should usefully be addressed through more systematic evaluation exercises. Additional effort is needed to identify and disseminate good practices in this area. Co-ordinated efforts at national and international levels are needed to broaden access to data from publicly funded research and contribute to the advancement of scientific research and innovation. To this effect, Ministers adopted a Declaration entrusting the OECD to work towards commonly agreed Principles and Guidelines on Access to Research Data from Public Funding. Greater international co-operation in science and technology is vital to meet a broad range of global challenges related to economic growth, better health, sustainable development, and enhanced safety and security, as well as for implementing large science projects in a growing range of disciplines. In this regard, Ministers adopted a Declaration aiming at strengthening international S&T co-operation for sustainable development. They endorsed efforts to establish a framework for a Global Biological Resource Centre Network and gave their support to promote scientific co-operation in the fields of high-energy physics and neuroinformatics.