Regional Research Promotion Programme
The programme promotes research in social sciences in the Western Balkans. While still having a rather marginal role, social sciences are highly relevant to bring forward social and political reforms in the region. Young researchers, in particular young female researchers, shall get their chance to conduct research according to international standards and thus remain motivated to stay in their countries of origin. In addition, research institutions get support to be prepared for increasing European integration.
| RegionCountry | Topic | Period | Budget |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Western Balkans |
Other
Sector not specified
|
01.09.2013
- 30.06.2017 |
CHF 7'600'000
|
- Competences and capacities of individuals and research institutions dealing with in social sciences are improved;
- Research results are relevant and can be used to support transformation processes
- Networking among researchers and institutions in the region is strengthened.
- Swiss Private Sector
- Université Fribourg
- University of Fribourg (mandate)
-
DAC Sector OTHER MULTISECTOR
Sub-Sector according to the OECD Developement Assistance Commitiee categorisation Multisector aid
Policy Marker The project takes account of gender equality as a cross-cutting theme.
The project takes account of democratisation, good governance and human rights as cross-cutting themes.
Flow Official development assistance (ODA)
Collaboration Bilateral cooperation
Finance Type Aid grant
Aid Type Mandate with fiduciary funds
Mandate without fiduciary fund
Tied/untied aid Untied aid
Project Number 7F00481
| Background |
Scientific research in the Western Balkans, especially in social sciences, remains in a poor state. Quality of research has not yet achieved international standards, and methodological and institutional support is in high demand by research partners. And last but not least, links between researchers and policy-makers are weak. |
| Target |
Enhanced capacities in social research in the transition countries in the Western Balkans contribute to social, economic and institutional reforms. Regional networking of research institution is promoted. |
| Target group |
The programme focuses on the young researchers’ generation, with special attention to young female researchers. In addition, senior researchers (professors, deans, rectors, etc.) will be supported in fulfilling their specific tasks. |
| Outcomes |
|
| Results |
Results from previous phase: Until today, 26 regional and 24 national research projects valuing 3.7 million Swiss Francs contributed to remarkable results. To give examples, 80% of the researchers declared to stay in their country thanks to the programme; they confirmed dealing with transformation-relevant topics in the fields of political sciences, economy, and social & cultural studies. Finally, in ten regional projects in 2011, more than 50% were female researchers. Beyond that, deficiencies in methodology and structures were addressed successfully, e.g. by curricula development in academic institutions; this support remains important also for the next phase. For the future, improving programme effectiveness remains a challenge. It shall be achieved by narrowing down research topics, offering mentoring to individuals, and intensifying policy-dialogues with Government stakeholders. |
| Agency |
SDC |
| Credit |
Swiss cooperation with Eastern Europe |
| Project Partners |
Contract Partner Private sector Swiss Academic and Research Institution |
| Budget | Current Phase Swiss Budget CHF 7'600'000 Swiss Disbursement Till Know CHF 7'139'329 |
| Project Phases |
Phase 4 01.09.2013 - 30.06.2017 (Completed) Phase 3 01.07.2011 - 31.12.2013 (Completed) Phase 2 01.07.2008 - 30.06.2011 (Completed) |