Local Knowledge Spillovers from International Science and Technology Cooperation: Evidence from EU-Tunisian Framwork Program Cooperation

This paper provides and in depth analyses of EU-Tunisian science and technology cooperation. Combining state-of-the-art theoretical background on research and innovation with profound knowledge of the Tunisian research and innovation system. We are discussing the rational of EU-TUN science and technology cooperation and the potential benefits and spillovers for Tunisia. Drawing on a unique data set from a 2012 survey among 137 Tunisian researchers and detailed data on Tunisian participation in the latest two framework programs, we can empirically test the role and materialization of such benefits for the case of EU-TUN science and technology cooperation. We apply both descriptive as well as initial econometric testing and provide policy recommendations at the political as well as at the level of the researcher/research institution.