In November 2024, Erasmus University Rotterdam (EUR) welcomed a high-level delegation from the European Commission and the Dutch government as part of the first Enhanced Dialogue between the EU and the Netherlands. This landmark event, dedicated to the themes of excellence, impact, strategic choices, and research and innovation (R&I) ecosystems, underscored the critical role of universities in addressing societal challenges and driving innovation.
The visit, led by Marc Lemaître, Director General for Research and Innovation at the European Commission, alongside Feite Hofman, Director General of the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science, and Tjerk Opmeer, Acting Director-General for Business and Innovation at the Ministry of Economic Affairs, highlighted the importance of collaboration between academia, industry, and policymakers. As a university committed to engaged science, social innovation, and evidence-based policymaking, EUR seized this opportunity to showcase its contributions to the national and European R&I ecosystems.
A Blueprint for Future Dialogues
This visit was not just a milestone for EUR but also a model for future engagements between the EU and its member states. As highlighted in the European Commission’s press release and the Dutch Ministry’s LinkedIn post, the dialogue at EUR will serve as a blueprint for similar discussions with other member states. The success of this visit demonstrates how universities can act as key stakeholders in shaping R&I policies that address both national and European priorities.
A Timely Dialogue on the Role of Science in Uncertain Times
Against the backdrop of global uncertainties, shifting political priorities, and grand societal challenges, the discussions emphasized the indispensable role of universities in fostering resilience and competitiveness. Annelien Bredenoord, President of the EUR Executive Board, articulated EUR’s mission to create positive societal impact through transdisciplinary, human-centric research. She emphasized the urgency of bridging the gap between science and society, theory and practice, and ensuring that social sciences and humanities (SSH) play a prominent role alongside other disciplines.
Through concrete examples, EUR demonstrated how it collaborates with academic and non-academic partners to address pressing societal issues. From the Erasmus Center for AI and Data Analytics and the Immersive Xperience Lab to Erasmus Chair Evelien Crone’s SYNC Lab and Brain Imaging Center, EUR showcased its innovative approaches to research and education. These initiatives highlighted the university’s commitment to fostering international, transdisciplinary, and inclusive science that drives transformative change.
Key Takeaways: The Power of SSH and the Need for Sustainable Investments
- The Unique Role of SSH: Social sciences and humanities are uniquely positioned to help academia, industry, and policymakers understand and address societal challenges. They play a critical role in leveraging societal readiness for technological innovation and driving reflexive, transformative change.
- Closer Collaboration: Regular dialogues between policymakers and universities are essential for aligning research priorities with societal needs.
- Balanced Innovation: There is an urgent need for sustainable investments in R&I, with a better balance between technological and social innovation. Both are equally important for Europe’s industrial and societal competitiveness.
- Addressing Policy Challenges: The announced €1 billion budget cuts and new legislation on internationalization in the Netherlands threaten the country’s ability to attract talent and maintain cutting-edge research. These policies risk undermining the Netherlands’ position as a global leader in R&I.
Marc Lemaître’s Vision: Strengthening Europe’s R&I Ecosystem
In an exclusive interview, Marc Lemaître shared his perspective on the future of European R&I. He emphasized the importance of universities engaging in EU-funded projects to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange. He highlighted EUR’s role in the Convergence alliance with TU Delft and Erasmus Medical Center as a model for building bridges across disciplines and positioning universities at the heart of innovation ecosystems.
Lemaître also outlined the European Commission’s ambitious R&I priorities, including the development of a European Research Area legislative act, a European Innovation Act, and a strategy to boost European life sciences. He stressed the need for universities to prepare for emerging trends such as climate change, artificial intelligence, and geopolitical shifts, noting that EUR’s strategic themes provide a strong foundation for addressing these challenges.
Shaping the Future of R&I
The Enhanced Dialogue between the EU and the Netherlands was a powerful reminder of the critical role universities play in shaping the future of research and innovation. As EUR continues to champion engaged science and transdisciplinary collaboration, it stands ready to partner with policymakers, industry, and society to drive evidence-based, citizen-centric policies.
The visit concluded on a hopeful note, with Lemaître affirming EUR’s position as a frontrunner in transdisciplinary education and research. His closing words resonated deeply: “You showed us the power of SSH. Erasmus is a clear EU frontrunner in transdisciplinary education and research.”
As we look to the future, EUR remains committed to fostering international collaboration, advocating for sustainable R&I investments, and ensuring that SSH science continues to play a pivotal role in addressing societal challenges. Together, we can build a more resilient, innovative, and inclusive Europe.
- More information
For more information please contact Meri Georgievska-van de Laar, Director of European Affairs at EUR.
