The Latvian research funding system : specific support to Latvia : Horizon 2020 Policy Support Facility

To support countries in reforming their research and innovation systems, the Directorate-General for Research & Innovation (DG RTD) of the European Commission set up a Policy Support Facility (PSF) under the European Framework Programme for Research & Innovation 'Horizon 2020'. It aims to support Member States and associated countries in improving their national science, technology and innovation systems. The Latvian government requested specific support from the PSF, as a basis for reforming and improving the quality of the way it funds research and innovation. The PSF panel of four independent experts supported by two national peers worked from January to December 2017, including two missions to Riga to consult stakeholders and discuss potential recommendations. This final report was formally presented to the Latvian government in Riga during February 2018. The panel's recommendations focus on - The need to devote more budget from national sources to research and innovation - How to streamline the structure and governance of state organisations involved in research and innovation funding - The need for further organisational integration and governance reforms in the higher education sector - Exposing more of the needed increased investment in research to competition - Taking steps to support business to invest more in research and innovation