|
|
|
|
Map of Europe |
CIAO DATE: 07/03
Vol. 5, No 4 (December 2002)
Introduction: Building the Basis for Future Growth – Innovation Policy as a Solution?
by Slavo Radoseviæ (Guest Editor)
Articles
Learning Innovation Policy in a Market-based Context: Process, Issues and Challenges for Eu Candidate-countries
(PDF format, 23 pgs, 196 kb)
by Claire Nauwelaers and Alasdair Reid
This article draws lessons from the level of development and governance systems of innovation policy in the thirteen European Union (EU) candidate countries concerned. In particular, the article addresses the question of whether the design and implementation of an innovation policy can only take place in mature market economies or whether innovation policy can be designed and implemented in the context of imperfect national innovation systems. It is argued that a variety of innovation policy governance models co-exist in the EU. Diversity is observed with regard to ministry- or agency-led policies, the degree of responsibility at regional level, and the strength of inter-ministerial co-ordination mechanisms. The authors conclude that there is no one-fits-all system of innovation governance. The degree of maturity in policy in the candidate countries is uneven, with Estonia, Hungary and Turkey appearing as the leading countries. Though with a number of caveats, the paper offers a positive response to the question if the candidate countries can learn from innovation policy developments in the EU. The main challenge for a successful benchmarking exercise in the innovation policy is to develop policy learning capabilities in the candidate countries.
Does Innovation Policy Matter in a Transition Country? The Case of Hungary
(PDF format, 23 pgs, 212 kb)
by Attila Havas
This article discusses Hungarian innovation policy within the analytical framework of an evolutionary economics of innovation. A crucial policy implication of this school is that public policies should be aimed at promoting learning in its widest possible sense, and hence, fostering networking and co-operation. The article first provides a brief overview of the transition process, emphasising the simultaneous need for systemic (institutional) changes and macroeconomic stabilisation in order to improve (micro-)economic performance. Further, the author analyses recent changes in the science and technology (S&T) decision-making system, various efforts to draft S&T and innovation policy documents, as well as the inputs and outputs of R&D (research and development) and innovation. The study concludes that the present implicit innovation policy may hinder long-term development. An explicit policy is required to signal the main policy directions and commitments of the government, to strengthen the national innovation system, and to align public and private efforts for sustained improvement.
Innovation Policy in the Czech Republic: From Laissez Faire to State Activism
by Karel Müller
This article seeks to describe the influence of the existing industrial structure on regulatory efforts and provisions to shape public policy regarding science and technology (S&T). Two transition events have been crucial for the formulation of the present innovation policy: the transition from specific regulatory and self-regulatory practices (and available resources) to quasi-capitalist regulatory and self-regulatory practices that appeared out of the radical economic reform in the first half of the 1990s; and the transition to a standard (modern) regulatory framework based on the mobilisation of economic (capitalist), political and industrial resources and a combination of regulatory practices in the market, democratic policy and the expert-based activities of executive bodies. The article discusses a conceptual framework for analysing innovation activities in a post-socialist environment and the specific situation in the Czech Republic, and analyses the current situation of innovation policy in the Czech Republic. The author then identifies key factors of restructuring of the domestic S&T resources, and assesses their impact on the formation of the national innovation system. The concluding part outlines, among others, issues of current innovation policy with regard to challenges and constraints in its transition to its modern forms, and regulatory practices, which are common to member-states of the European Union.
Slovenian Innovation Policy: Underexploited Potential For Growth
by Maja Buèar and Metka Stare
One of the key challenges for Central and Eastern European countries in transition to a market economy is associated with the creation of national innovation systems which will support the required technological restructuring and modernisation of enterprises and stimulate economic growth. Slovenia has succeeded to avoid the collapse of its public research sector, it has introduced a vast array of different legal documents, instruments and mechanisms, with a view to fostering innovation. Yet, the contribution of this normative framework of innovation policy to economic growth has been minimal. The key reason for such a gap between the declared and the implemented innovation policy lies in the predominant narrow approach to innovation and its potential, as well as the lack of commitment and consensus among the key stakeholders. To demonstrate this, the article assesses, among other things, Slovenian research and development (R&D) and its impact on the economy, and examines the barriers to innovation. The authors conclude that a new understanding of innovation policy and the building of innovative culture are needed to enable innovation-supported growth and economic development of Slovenia.
The Troubling Face of Cyprus: From a Sheltered to a High-Tech Island? The Place of Innovation Policy
by Bernard Musyck and Athanasios Hadjimanolis
Applying the theoretical framework of the National Innovation System (NIS), this article analyses the innovation policy of Cyprus, a European Union accession country. The paper first introduces the concept of the National Innovation System and discusses its advantages, drawbacks and validity as an analytical tool in the context of a small industrialising country. Empirical research on recent innovation-related developments in the Cypriot economy and the evolution of relevant policies are outlined. The concept of innovation policy is relatively new to Cyprus, and the analysis reveals that there is no self-contained policy document or a guideline, and that the elements of innovation policy are included in the existing industrial policy. The article then presents the current state of the NIS in Cyprus, its deficiencies and the subsequent implications for innovation policy. The study concludes with some policy recommendations.
Book Reviews
Anti-Personnel Mines under Humanitarian Law: A View from the Vanishing Point by Stuart Maslen
by Mika Nishimura
Principles of Global Security by John D. Steinbruner
by Ursa Pavsiè
The Social Learning Group: Learning to Manage Global Environmental Risks
Volume 1: A Comparative History of Social Responses to Climate Change, Ozone Depletion, and Acid Rain
Volume 2: A Functional Analysis of Social Responses to Climate Change, Ozone Depletion, and Acid Rain
by Petr Jehlièka
Beyond Boundaries? Disciplines, Paradigms, and Theoretical Integration in International Studies by Rudra Sil and Eileen M. Doherty (eds)
by Ana-Maria Boromisa
Coalition Governments in Western Europe by Wolfgang C. Müller and Kaare Strom (eds)
by Michal Klíma