Regional Research Promotion Programme

Projet terminé

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.

Pays/région Thème Période Budget
Balkans occidentaux
Autre
Secteur non spécifié
01.09.2013 - 30.06.2017
CHF 7'600'000
Contexte

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.

Objectifs

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.

Groupes cibles

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.

Effets à moyen terme

  • 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.
  • Résultats

    Principaux résultats antérieurs:  

    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.


    Direction/office fédéral responsable DDC
    Crédit Coopération avec l'Europe de l'Est
    Partenaire de projet Partenaire contractuel
    Secteur privé
    Institution universitaire et de recherche suisse
    • Secteur privé suisse
    • Université Fribourg
    • University of Fribourg (mandate)


    Budget Phase en cours Budget de la Suisse CHF   7'600'000 Budget suisse déjà attribué CHF   7'139'329
    Phases du projet

    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)