Research
Security
Research Security
Research security is an increasingly important dimension of the European Research Area (ERA), ensuring that international research collaboration remains open while safeguarding Europe’s values, interests and scientific integrity. As global research becomes more interconnected, risks such as foreign interference, misuse of research results, and undue influence on academic freedom need to be addressed in a balanced and proportionate way.
In the ERA, research security focuses on strengthening the capacity of research organisations and countries to manage risks, while preserving openness and collaboration. It supports a common understanding of challenges, promotes responsible international cooperation, and helps protect the integrity of research systems.
In the ERA Policy Agenda (2025–2027), research security is addressed through a dedicated action aimed at developing a more coherent and coordinated European approach. This includes building a shared knowledge base, strengthening cooperation between countries, and providing practical guidance and tools to support implementation. This builds on earlier work under the ERA Policy Agenda 2022–2024, including mutual learning exercises and the development of guidance on mitigating risks related to foreign interference.
ERA tools and resources
European Centre of Expertise on Research Security (under development)
Will provide support, guidance and capacity building to help organisations manage research security risks.
Practical guidelines on tackling foreign interference in R&I
Offer recommendations and practices to help research organisations identify and mitigate foreign interference risks.
A comprehensive legal, policy, and comparative analysis for promoting and protecting the freedom of scientific research in Europe
Study looks at the factors shaping researchers’ autonomy and institutional independence. It highlights gaps between law and practice, identifies pressures that limit scientific freedom, as a first step toward developing further measures.
Research Security Monitor (2025)
Provides an overview of how research security is being addressed across the EU and its Member States, supporting peer learning, capacity building and the exchange of practices to strengthen open and secure international cooperation.
Source: ERA Policy Platform, INSPIRING ERA
