UNESCO questionnaire on the 2017 Recommendation on Science and Scientific Researchers

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GUIDELINES FOR THE PREPARATION OF REPORTS 
BY MEMBER STATES ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE 
2017 RECOMMENDATION ON SCIENCE AND SCIENTIFIC RESEARCHERS

I. INTRODUCTION 
These Guidelines are intended to assist Member States in the preparation of the reports on the implementation of the Recommendation on Science and Scientific Researchers which was adopted by the UNESCO General Conference at its 39th session on 13 November 2017 (hereinafter referred to as the “2017 Recommendation”).

The 2017 Recommendation is organized around 10 key areas to facilitate uptake and focus. These are: i) the responsibility of science towards the United Nations’ ideals of human dignity, progress, justice, peace, welfare of humankind and respect for the environment; ii) the need for science to meaningfully interact with society and vice versa; iii) the role of science in national policy and decision making, international cooperation and development; iv) promoting science as a common good; v) inclusive and non‐discriminatory work conditions and access to education and employment in science; vi) any scientific conduct is subject to universal human rights standards; vii) balancing the freedoms, rights and responsibilities of researchers; viii) scientific integrity and ethical codes of conduct for science and research and their technical applications; ix) the vital importance of human capital for a sound and responsible science system; and x) the role of Member States in creating an enabling environment for science and research. 

According to paragraph 1 (a)(i) of the 2017 Recommendation “…“science” signifies the enterprise whereby humankind, acting individually or in small or large groups, makes an organized attempt, by means of the objective study of observed phenomena and its validation through sharing of findings and data and through peer review, to discover and master the chain of causalities, relations or interactions; brings together in a coordinated form subsystems of knowledge by means of systematic reflection and conceptualization; and thereby furnishes itself with the opportunity of using, to its own advantage, understanding of the processes and phenomena occurring in nature and society”. Furthermore, paragraph 1(a)(ii) of the 2017 Recommendation defines “the sciences” as signifying “[…] a complex of knowledge, fact and hypothesis, in which the theoretical element is capable of being validated in the short or long term, and to that extent includes the sciences concerned with social facts and phenomena”. 

Pursuant to Articles 15 and 16.1 of the Rules of Procedure concerning recommendations to Member States and international conventions covered by the terms of Article IV, paragraph 4, of the UNESCO Constitution, the Director-General of UNESCO has invited Member States by the Circular Letter (CL/ 4253) to submit the 2017 Recommendation to their competent authorities within a period of one year from the close of the session of the General Conference at which it was adopted, i. e. before 14 November 2018.

Furthermore, under Article VIII of UNESCO’s Constitution, Member States are required to submit a report on the legislative and administrative provisions and any other measures they have taken to implement the conventions and recommendations adopted by the Organization. 

II. WHAT ARE THE AIMS OF THIS CONSULTATION? 
This global consultation aims to assist Member States in: a) mapping policies, mechanisms and actions related to the 10 key areas of the 2017 Recommendation; b) collecting and disseminating progress and good practices across its 10 key areas, including by using data collected through the Global Observatory of Science, Technology and Innovation Policy Instruments (GO-SPIN) online platform; and c) identifying challenges and opportunities faced by Member States in the implementation of the 2017 Recommendation, so as to identify specific capacity-building needs.

III. HOW TO FILL IN THE QUESTIONNAIRE?
The following questionnaire aims to guide and assist Member States with their reporting on the progress made in the implementation of the 2017 Recommendation. It aims to collect information on the extent to which Member States have integrated the provisions of the 2017 Recommendation, in their national science, technology and innovation systems, and their engagement with the programmes that are related to the 2017 Recommendation, and that have been approved by the General Conference. 

The structure of the questionnaire is aligned to the 10 Key Areas of the 2017 Recommendation. Cognizant of the considerable scope of the 2017 Recommendation, the questionnaire follows a more focused approach. In particular, it addresses notably broader issues; deals with considerations that cut across several key areas (for instance non-discrimination, data collection, funding, etc.) only under one of the concerned areas; and addresses broadly issues falling under other science Recommendations, the implementation of which is monitored at the same time, leaving a more in-depth examination for the consultations concerning those instruments. All these choices aim at a streamlined questionnaire that facilitates and encourages participation of Member States and other stakeholders. A more comprehensive and detailed analysis will be obtained through the indicators library for the Recommendation that UNESCO is currently elaborating.  

The questionnaire contains mainly structural and process indicators. Some questions request respondents to provide assessments and opinions and share information about respective priorities. In doing so, respondents are invited to draw on data available in databases such as those maintained by the UNESCO Institute of Statistics. Useful information about the monitoring of the Recommendation can be found on the GO-SPIN platform. The questionnaire is accompanied by glossaries and additional explanatory texts for further clarity. Furthermore and as regards questions pertaining to freedom and safety of scientists (key areas 7 and 9), additional guidance will be provided as the implementation of the new related UNESCO Programme unfolds in the coming months. 
 
Responses to this questionnaire will be considered as the official national report of each Member State and will be consolidated by the Secretariat.

Prior to completing the questionnaire, Member States are encouraged to organize the necessary consultations within and outside the concerned ministries and institutions, including with authorities and bodies responsible for science, technology, innovation, and ethics, and consult relevant actors concerned with issues falling within the scope of the 2017 Recommendation, including the scientific community, professional associations, civil society, indigenous and traditional knowledge holders, private sector partners and National Commissions for UNESCO.

Member States are requested to designate a contact person responsible for information sharing and cooperation with UNESCO in relation to reporting on the 2017 Recommendation.

Member States are encouraged to submit the questionnaire (in English or French) in one of the following ways: online (link) or via email (rssr@unesco.org).

The reports will be made available on UNESCO’s website in order to facilitate the exchange of information relating to the promotion and implementation of this Recommendation.


Deadline 31 March 2025
Please note that the questionnaire can be completed over multiple sessions using the SAVE and RESUME options at the top of the screen. When first saving, a password creation prompt will appear, and this password will be required to resume all subsequent sessions along with the email used for registration. Questionnaire responses can be modified, including by adding, deleting content, or changing attached files, until the SUBMIT button is clicked on the final page. However, it is no longer possible to make changes after the SUBMIT button on the final page has been clicked.

Please ensure that all uploaded files combined do not exceed the 35MB size limit. Files exceeding this limit can be sent to rssr@unesco.org. In your email, kindly specify which question each file relates to.

IV. QUESTIONNAIRE












(to which the survey link will be sent)

Deadline 31 March 2025
Please note that the questionnaire can be completed over multiple sessions using the SAVE and RESUME options at the top of the screen. When first saving, a password creation prompt will appear, and this password will be required to resume all subsequent sessions along with the email used for registration. Questionnaire responses can be modified, including by adding, deleting content, or changing attached files, until the SUBMIT button is clicked on the final page. However, it is no longer possible to make changes after the SUBMIT button on the final page has been clicked.

Please ensure that all uploaded files combined do not exceed the 35MB size limit. Files exceeding this limit can be sent to rssr@unesco.org. In your email, kindly specify which question each file relates to.

B. QUESTIONNAIRE FOR MEMBER STATES’ REPORTING ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE UNESCO RECOMMENDATION ON SCIENCE AND SCIENTIFIC RESEARCHERS (2017) 

Throughout this survey, the term 'science' is used in a comprehensive manner to encompass both natural and applied sciences, such as biology, physics, and engineering, as well as social sciences, which examine societal, behavioural, and cultural aspects. This inclusive definition ensures an integral understanding of science in the context of the questions and discussions.

The survey questions will often refer to the following categories of policy instruments:

Legal Policy Instruments: Laws, decrees, executive orders or regulations, formal agreements, contracts and international STI cooperation treaties, and deontological codes of ethics at both national and sub-national levels may be included in this category. A legal instrument goes one step beyond a policy by stipulating obligations, rights, rewards, and penalties.

Operational Policy Instruments: Actual working mechanisms that make the Legal Policy Instrument function on a day-to-day basis.
Deadline 31 March 2025
Please note that the questionnaire can be completed over multiple sessions using the SAVE and RESUME options at the top of the screen. When first saving, a password creation prompt will appear, and this password will be required to resume all subsequent sessions along with the email used for registration. Questionnaire responses can be modified, including by adding, deleting content, or changing attached files, until the SUBMIT button is clicked on the final page. However, it is no longer possible to make changes after the SUBMIT button on the final page has been clicked.

Please ensure that all uploaded files combined do not exceed the 35MB size limit. Files exceeding this limit can be sent to rssr@unesco.org. In your email, kindly specify which question each file relates to.

KEY AREA 1. Science for sustainable development

[paragraphs 4, 5(d) ,5(f), 13d]

Helper text: Peace is about promoting peaceful and inclusive societies, providing access to justice for all, and building effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels. In this case, it is important to include instruments that support the development and promotion of new solutions to societal problems and challenges. The innovative projects may be proposed by the private sector, but also by NGOs and other civil society organisations.



Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to technology transfer programmes like communication technologies, surveillance for peacekeeping missions, or infrastructure rebuilding technologies; and policy frameworks ensuring ethical research contributing to peace efforts.



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to funding and grants specifically for peace-oriented research, innovation challenges and competitions aimed at peace building, cross-border research collaborations for mutual understanding, public-private partnerships for peace-related projects, educational and training programmes in peace studies and conflict resolution, support for technology transfer and local innovation in conflict-affected areas, diplomatic and international cooperation initiatives for peace-focused research, incubators and accelerators dedicated to peace building innovations, and inclusive policy development processes involving diverse stakeholders and conflict-affected communities.




Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to waste management acts, environmental protection and management laws, forestry policies, and wildlife conservation policies.



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to recycling programmes, waste sorting and collection initiatives, pollution control measures, environmental impact assessments (EIAs), emission trading schemes, and monitoring and enforcement mechanisms.

Helper text: Green technology refers to technology whose use is intended to mitigate or reverse the effects of human activity on the environment. These technologies  encompass a broad range of products, services, and processes that use sustainable, renewable, or less environmentally harmful means to meet human needs and demands. The primary goal of green technologies is to reduce the environmental impact, conserve natural resources, and mitigate or eliminate pollution in various forms. 



Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to national plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, national energy policies, environment protection laws, laws on water and water resources, etc.



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to funds to facilitate investments in energy efficiency and renewable energy in the Member State, or programmes to support scientific and technological research into climate and land use change and its impacts on water resources.
Deadline 31 March 2025
Please note that the questionnaire can be completed over multiple sessions using the SAVE and RESUME options at the top of the screen. When first saving, a password creation prompt will appear, and this password will be required to resume all subsequent sessions along with the email used for registration. Questionnaire responses can be modified, including by adding, deleting content, or changing attached files, until the SUBMIT button is clicked on the final page. However, it is no longer possible to make changes after the SUBMIT button on the final page has been clicked.

Please ensure that all uploaded files combined do not exceed the 35MB size limit. Files exceeding this limit can be sent to rssr@unesco.org. In your email, kindly specify which question each file relates to.

KEY AREA 2. Need for science to meaningfully interact with society and vice versa

[paragraphs 4, 5c, 13(d), 19, 20, 22]

Helper text: Social appropriation of scientific knowledge refers to the process whereby people are empowered through scientific information. The concept underscores the importance of making scientific knowledge accessible, relevant, and useful to the broader public, beyond just the confines of academia or specialised research communities.



Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to public access laws mandating open access to publicly funded scientific research, adjustments in Intellectual Property Rights to facilitate public use of scientific knowledge, and education policy regulations integrating science communication into curricula.



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to funding and grant policies requiring public engagement components in research projects, public science communication programmes disseminating scientific findings, collaborative research models including non-scientific community stakeholders, and professional development programmes for researchers  in public engagement.

Helper text: Inclusive technology refers to technological designs, tools, platforms, or systems that aim to cater to the broadest possible range of users, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their abilities, socio-economic status, age, gender, culture, or other factors, has equal access and opportunities to use and benefit from them. 



Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to
intellectual property laws that incentivize innovation in assistive and inclusive
technology fields, legal frameworks that promote public-private partnerships in the
creation of inclusive technologies, and anti-discrimination laws that require
technology to be accessible and inclusive, preventing exclusion based on
disability, age, or other factors.



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to grant and funding programmes specifically targeting research and development of assistive technologies and inclusive digital tools, tax incentives or subsidies for companies that invest in the research and development of technologies aimed at social inclusion, public-private partnership initiatives aimed at promoting the creation and distribution of inclusive technologies, and educational and training programmes to raise awareness among technology developers about the importance of inclusivity in design and functionality.
Deadline 31 March 2025
Please note that the questionnaire can be completed over multiple sessions using the SAVE and RESUME options at the top of the screen. When first saving, a password creation prompt will appear, and this password will be required to resume all subsequent sessions along with the email used for registration. Questionnaire responses can be modified, including by adding, deleting content, or changing attached files, until the SUBMIT button is clicked on the final page. However, it is no longer possible to make changes after the SUBMIT button on the final page has been clicked.

Please ensure that all uploaded files combined do not exceed the 35MB size limit. Files exceeding this limit can be sent to rssr@unesco.org. In your email, kindly specify which question each file relates to.

KEY AREA 3. Role of science in national policy and decision-making, international cooperation and development

[paragraphs 5(g), 7, 8, 9]





Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to laws that require governmental policies to be based on scientific evidence and research findings, the establishment of official science advisory bodies, legal frameworks for setting up independent scientific advisory councils or committees that provide expert advice to government bodies, and regulations ensuring that government-funded research data is publicly accessible, thus facilitating its use in policy development.



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to operational structures within government agencies for effective communication and collaboration between scientists and policymakers, funding programmes for initiatives that specifically aim to translate scientific research into policy insights, educational and training initiatives to enhance policymakers' understanding and utilisation of scientific data and methodologies, public consultations and expert panels.





Helper text: Legal policy instruments encompass laws and regulations that govern the transfer of technology both nationally and internationally. They involve aspects such as intellectual property rights, export controls, licensing agreements, and adherence to international technology transfer standards.



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to funding and grant programmes specifically aimed at supporting technology transfer activities, especially for technologies addressing global challenges; and the existence of regulatory bodies or agencies that oversee and facilitate the process of technology transfer, ensuring adherence to legal and ethical standards




Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to international treaties for scientific cooperation, bilateral agreements for technology exchange, or legal frameworks for joint funding of research projects.



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to international research grants and funding programmes for collaborative projects, cross-border innovation hubs and science parks, international conferences and symposia for knowledge exchange, global research networks and partnerships, collaborative international standardisation efforts, exchange programmes for scientists and researchers, science diplomacy initiatives, global innovation competitions and challenges, and online collaboration platforms and networks.
Deadline 31 March 2025
Please note that the questionnaire can be completed over multiple sessions using the SAVE and RESUME options at the top of the screen. When first saving, a password creation prompt will appear, and this password will be required to resume all subsequent sessions along with the email used for registration. Questionnaire responses can be modified, including by adding, deleting content, or changing attached files, until the SUBMIT button is clicked on the final page. However, it is no longer possible to make changes after the SUBMIT button on the final page has been clicked.

Please ensure that all uploaded files combined do not exceed the 35MB size limit. Files exceeding this limit can be sent to rssr@unesco.org. In your email, kindly specify which question each file relates to.

KEY AREA 4. Promotion of science as a common good

[paragraphs 6, 13(e), 16(a‐v), 18(b), 18(c), 18(d), 21, 34(e), 35, 36, 38]

Helper text: Open science refers to a number of initiatives aimed at making science more transparent and open, such as open access, open data and open methodology. It advocates for the open sharing of scientific knowledge and resources, both nationally and internationally, making them widely available to researchers, professionals, and the general public.



Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to national strategies for open access, national policies on data sharing and accessibility, and laws for the creation of open access digital repositories.



Helper text: Examples of operational instruments include but are not limited to funds for the publication of research results via open access and open access platforms/networks.




Helper text: Examples of these instruments include but are not limited to laws recognizing and protecting the intellectual property rights of indigenous and local communities over their traditional knowledge, regulations mandating the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the use of indigenous knowledge in scientific and technological innovations, policies requiring prior informed consent from indigenous communities for research involving their knowledge systems, legislation ensuring the proper acknowledgment and credit of traditional knowledge sources in academic and commercial contexts, and frameworks for compensating indigenous communities for their contributions to science, technology, and innovation.



Helper text: Examples of these instruments include but are not limited to operational guidelines for documenting and crediting traditional knowledge in research publications and STI projects, protocols for engaging with indigenous communities and obtaining informed consent, frameworks for establishing benefit-sharing arrangements, and administrative procedures for compensating traditional knowledge holders. Additionally, there might be educational programmes aimed at raising awareness among researchers and corporations about the importance of respecting and acknowledging indigenous knowledge systems, as well as monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to ensure compliance with these operational policies.
Deadline 31 March 2025
Please note that the questionnaire can be completed over multiple sessions using the SAVE and RESUME options at the top of the screen. When first saving, a password creation prompt will appear, and this password will be required to resume all subsequent sessions along with the email used for registration. Questionnaire responses can be modified, including by adding, deleting content, or changing attached files, until the SUBMIT button is clicked on the final page. However, it is no longer possible to make changes after the SUBMIT button on the final page has been clicked.

Please ensure that all uploaded files combined do not exceed the 35MB size limit. Files exceeding this limit can be sent to rssr@unesco.org. In your email, kindly specify which question each file relates to.

KEY AREA 5. Diversity, non-discrimination and equality in science education and employment

[paragraphs 13(a), 13(b), 13(c), 24(b), 24(c), 33, 34(d)].





Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to anti-discrimination laws that specifically prohibit unequal treatment in educational and training institutions, equal opportunity legislation that mandates fair access to educational resources and career guidance in the field of research and development, scholarship and funding programmes targeted at underrepresented and disadvantaged groups to support their initial education and training in R&D fields, laws mandating inclusive admission policies in universities and research institutions, policies ensuring equitable allocation of research grants and resources to institutions serving diverse populations, and legislation that requires the inclusion of diverse perspectives and backgrounds in the development and implementation of educational curricula in sciences.



Helper text: Examples of operational instruments include but are not limited to diversity and inclusion training programmes for staff and faculty in educational and research institutions., scholarship and mentorship programmes specifically designed to support underrepresented groups in pursuing R&D careers, outreach and awareness initiatives aimed at encouraging diverse applicants to pursue education and careers in R&D fields, implementation of fair and transparent recruitment and admission processes in educational institutions and research programmes, and the establishment of dedicated offices or committees within universities and research institutes to oversee and promote diversity and inclusion policies in education and training for R&D careers.




Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation that specifically covers access to education and employment opportunities in research fields, laws mandating equal opportunity in hiring practices within universities, research institutions, and industries engaged in scientific research; policies that require fair representation of diverse groups in grant-awarding processes for scientific research, and laws that establish monitoring bodies to oversee adherence to equality standards in educational and research institutions.



Helper text: Examples of operational instruments include but are not limited to targeted recruitment programmes designed to attract a diverse range of candidates to R&D careers, mentorship and support programmes to assist individuals from diverse backgrounds in navigating their career paths in research, policies and procedures to ensure fair and unbiased hiring and promotion practices within research institutions and industries, collaborative partnerships with community organisations and schools to widen access to science education and careers, and continuous monitoring and evaluation of diversity policies to measure effectiveness and identify areas for improvement in providing equal access to education and employment opportunities in scientific research.


Helper text: Achieving gender equality in science, technology and innovation (STI) implies further encouraging the participation of girls and women at all levels of education and providing equal opportunities for scientists throughout their careers.



Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to national equality and diversity policies for higher education or acts on fostering and supporting women in STEM.



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to initiatives to any plans to increase women’s participation in higher and post-secondary education.

Helper text: Achieving gender equality in science, technology and innovation (STI) implies further encouraging the participation of girls and women at all levels of education and providing equal opportunities for scientists throughout their careers.



Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to equal opportunities laws or laws to encourage the advancement and integration of women in the workforce and the adjustment of workplaces to women’s needs.



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to programmes to grant a full professorship position to women in all disciplines who have an outstanding international track record, or funds to assist female entrepreneurs and female-led start-ups develop innovative technologies.

Helper text: Researchers are professionals engaged in the conception or creation of new knowledge. They conduct research and improve or develop concepts, theories, models, techniques, instrumentation, software or operational methods. It is important to note that researchers represent one category within the broader R&D personnel, which also includes other essential roles such as technicians and support staff, all contributing indispensably to the research and development process.

The headcount (HC) is defined as the total number of researchers within R&D personnel during a specific reference period (usually a calendar year). That means headcount data reflect the total number of researchers who are mainly or partially employed in R&D activities.

%
%
Helper text: The business enterprise sector comprises both private and public for-profit enterprises, except enterprises that fit the description of higher education institutions.
%
Helper text: The government sector includes all units of central (federal), regional (state) or local (municipal) government, including social security funds, except those units that provide higher education services or fit the description of higher education institutions.
%
Helper text: The higher education sector includes all universities, colleges of technology and other institutions providing formal tertiary education programmes and all research institutes, centres, experimental stations and clinics that have their R&D activities under the direct control of, or are administered by, tertiary education institutions.
%
Helper text: The private non-profit sector comprises all non-profit institutions serving households, except those classified as part of the Higher education sector, and households and private individuals engaged or not engaged in market activities.


Deadline 31 March 2025
Please note that the questionnaire can be completed over multiple sessions using the SAVE and RESUME options at the top of the screen. When first saving, a password creation prompt will appear, and this password will be required to resume all subsequent sessions along with the email used for registration. Questionnaire responses can be modified, including by adding, deleting content, or changing attached files, until the SUBMIT button is clicked on the final page. However, it is no longer possible to make changes after the SUBMIT button on the final page has been clicked.

Please ensure that all uploaded files combined do not exceed the 35MB size limit. Files exceeding this limit can be sent to rssr@unesco.org. In your email, kindly specify which question each file relates to.

KEY AREA 6. Any scientific conduct is subject to universal human rights standards 

[paragraphs 18(a), 18(e), 20(a), 20(b), 20(c), 21, 22, 42]




Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to human rights legislation that enshrines the right to science, intellectual property rights laws balancing innovation protection with public scientific knowledge access, education policy laws mandating science education as part of fundamental rights, and research ethics regulations setting ethical standards in scientific research with respect to human rights. 



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to funding schemes for research integrating human rights principles, ethical review boards overseeing research ethics, training programmes on the science-human rights nexus for scientists, and partnerships with human rights organisations to integrate human rights in scientific policy-making.




Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to laws mandating public access to government-funded research results, regulations ensuring that scientific advancements are communicated to the public in an understandable and accessible manner, intellectual property laws with provisions for public use and benefit, legislation promoting open-source distribution of publicly funded technological innovations, and policies encouraging public-private partnerships in research and development aimed at addressing societal needs.



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to public access policies for government-funded research, ensuring that the results of such research are available to the public; science communication and outreach programmes, designed to educate and inform the public about scientific advancements; technology transfer regulations, which facilitate the movement of innovations from research institutions to the market; open-source software and technology initiatives, promoting the free sharing of software and technologies developed through public funding; funding for research and innovation projects aimed at addressing societal or community needs, involving the public in the research process; and policies mandating the ethical use of technology, ensuring that advancements are used in ways that benefit society as a whole.
Deadline 31 March 2025
Please note that the questionnaire can be completed over multiple sessions using the SAVE and RESUME options at the top of the screen. When first saving, a password creation prompt will appear, and this password will be required to resume all subsequent sessions along with the email used for registration. Questionnaire responses can be modified, including by adding, deleting content, or changing attached files, until the SUBMIT button is clicked on the final page. However, it is no longer possible to make changes after the SUBMIT button on the final page has been clicked.

Please ensure that all uploaded files combined do not exceed the 35MB size limit. Files exceeding this limit can be sent to rssr@unesco.org. In your email, kindly specify which question each file relates to.

KEY AREA 7. Freedoms, rights and responsibilities of researchers

[paragraphs 10, 11, 16(a), 16(b), 40]

Helper text: The 2017 Recommendation emphasises the freedom for the scientific community to engage in research, communicate, exchange, and disseminate results, to move, associate, and assemble, and to participate in international scientific activities without discrimination and in accordance with human rights law.



Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to laws upholding the freedom of speech and expression within academic settings, legislation protecting researchers and educators from censorship or undue influence, policies ensuring autonomy in research and teaching, laws against discrimination in academic institutions based on political, religious, or ideological grounds, regulations safeguarding the confidentiality of academic research, and legal frameworks that promote open and unrestricted access to scholarly information.



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to the establishment of academic freedom committees within educational and research institutions, policies and guidelines within universities and research institutions that explicitly protect intellectual freedom and encourage open discourse, training and awareness programmes for educators, administrators, and students about the importance of academic freedom and the means to safeguard it; and reporting mechanisms and support systems for individuals who face challenges to their intellectual or academic freedom.

Helper text: The 2017 Recommendation emphasises the freedom for the scientific community to engage in research, communicate, exchange, and disseminate results, to move, associate, and assemble, and to participate in international scientific activities without discrimination and in accordance with human rights law. 



Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to censorship laws limiting freedom of speech and publication, national security legislation that may restrict research on sensitive topics, strict defamation laws potentially used to suppress academic criticism, internet and media regulation laws controlling access to online resources, legal policies that restrict funding for certain research areas or institutions, laws that dictate academic curricula or staff appointments, overly restrictive research ethics and compliance laws, and regulations governing NGO and civil society activities that indirectly impact academic freedom.



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to internal regulations within educational and research institutions that impose limitations on research topics or methodologies, based on non-academic considerations; university or institutional policies that restrict the dissemination of research findings or academic publications, especially those that may be deemed controversial; administrative actions that limit the autonomy of academic staff in curriculum development or the selection of teaching materials; implementation of monitoring or surveillance systems within academic environments that could inhibit free academic expression. funding allocation policies within institutions that prioritise certain areas of research over others, potentially leading to self-censorship in less favoured disciplines, and restrictive partnership or collaboration policies that limit the ability of researchers and academics to engage with certain organisations or international peers.




Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to legal frameworks that create independent oversight bodies responsible for monitoring academic freedom violations, laws that provide clear procedures for addressing and redressing grievances related to academic freedom infringements, and laws that allow for judicial review or legal recourse for individuals who have faced infringements of their academic freedom.



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to the establishment of university ombudspersons or committees dedicated to safeguarding academic freedom, internal policies and guidelines within academic institutions for reporting and addressing potential violations, conflict resolution and mediation services, whistleblower protection policies within academic settings to safeguard those who report infringements, and regular audits or assessments by academic institutions to evaluate the state of academic freedom and implement necessary changes.




Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to occupational health and safety laws specifically tailored for research environments, covering hazards like chemical, biological, or radiological risks. Legislation mandating security measures for research labs and facilities, especially those dealing with sensitive or potentially dangerous materials. Laws providing protections for researchers working in high-risk or conflict areas, including legal measures for emergency response and evacuation.



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to comprehensive safety protocols and guidelines in research institutions, emergency response plans for various types of incidents in scientific research settings, training programs for researchers and staff on safety procedures, risk assessment, and emergency response; regular safety audits and risk assessments to identify potential hazards and implement corrective actions, and reporting systems for safety incidents and near-misses, ensuring continuous improvement in safety standards.




Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to legal frameworks that facilitate the formation and operation of trade unions within the STI field and labour laws that specifically address the rights and needs of STI workers.



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to negotiation and mediation services to assist trade unions in bargaining for better working conditions, salaries, and resources for R&D personnel; policies that offer financial support or subsidies for workplace improvements, such as lab safety upgrades or advanced research equipment, and initiatives that facilitate dialogue and collaboration between trade unions and research institutions or governmental bodies to influence STI policy decisions.


Deadline 31 March 2025
Please note that the questionnaire can be completed over multiple sessions using the SAVE and RESUME options at the top of the screen. When first saving, a password creation prompt will appear, and this password will be required to resume all subsequent sessions along with the email used for registration. Questionnaire responses can be modified, including by adding, deleting content, or changing attached files, until the SUBMIT button is clicked on the final page. However, it is no longer possible to make changes after the SUBMIT button on the final page has been clicked.

Please ensure that all uploaded files combined do not exceed the 35MB size limit. Files exceeding this limit can be sent to rssr@unesco.org. In your email, kindly specify which question each file relates to.

KEY AREA 8. Ethics of science

[paragraphs 5(d), 14(c), 14(d), 16(a), 18(b), 18(d), 18(e), 20(a), 25, 39(a), 39(b)]. 



Helper text: If backed by force of law, professional codes of ethics for scientists and engineers are legal instruments stipulating obligations, rights, rewards, and penalties. Examples of these codes of ethics include but are not limited to acts on research misconduct and codes of conduct for research integrity.

Helper text: The ethics of science and technology encompasses the moral principles and standards guiding research and development across all scientific domains. It includes natural and applied sciences, such as biology, physics, and engineering, as well as social sciences, which examine societal, behavioural, and cultural aspects.



Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to bioethics legislation and committees like the UK's Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), data protection and privacy laws such as the EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), AI ethics guidelines like those from the European Commission's High-Level Expert Group on Artificial Intelligence, and clinical trial regulations following principles like the Declaration of Helsinki, Research Ethics Boards or Institutional Review Boards (IRBs).



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to the establishment of ethics review boards for monitoring and evaluating research projects,  the implementation of mandatory ethical review processes for all new scientific and technological developments and the development of specialised training programmes in ethics for scientists. 




Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to the creation of legal frameworks that enforce accountability and transparency in research processes, the establishment of national ethics committees or boards to oversee STI activities, and the introduction of policies that mandate the consideration of societal impacts and ethical implications in all publicly funded STI projects.



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to training programmes and workshops on ethical practices and responsible research for scientists and researchers, guidelines and best practice documents for conducting ethical research in science, technology, and innovation (STI), grant and funding conditions that include adherence to ethical standards, monitoring and evaluation processes to ensure compliance with ethical guidelines, public engagement initiatives to incorporate societal values and expectations in STI research, and collaboration platforms for sharing knowledge and experiences about ethical practices in research and innovation.
Deadline 31 March 2025
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KEY AREA 9. Human capital for science

[paragraphs 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 34, 41]

9.1 Employment





Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to employment protection legislation, labour union laws, research funding legislation, intellectual property laws, and anti-discrimination laws, which collectively offer job security and fair employment practices for R&D personnel.



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to tenure track systems in academic institutions ensuring long-term job security for R&D personnel, grant and funding programmes designed to provide stable financial support for R&D projects, employment contracts with provisions that protect against arbitrary dismissal, unionisation rights and collective bargaining agreements that advocate for the job security of R&D staff, professional development programmes to enhance career stability and growth opportunities for researchers, and flexible work arrangements to accommodate the diverse needs of R&D personnel.

9.2 Mobility, Promotion and Career Development


Helper text: Mobility of scientific researchers refers to career development opportunities to move between public sector, private sector, and higher education employment, as well as outside of research and development.



Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to acts on academic exchange and ‘Science without Borders’ programmes. 



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to the creation of regional networks and platforms that support the mobility of researchers and innovators, and the implementation of standardised accreditation and certification systems to recognise qualifications across borders.

9.3 Education and Training in S&T





Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to laws that ensure funding for continuing education programs, establish requirements for ongoing training and skill development in the science and technology sector, and provide incentives for institutions that support lifelong learning for their scientific staff.



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to programmes and initiatives offering continuing education courses and workshops tailored to the evolving needs of scientific researchers. These could also involve partnerships between research institutions, universities, online education platforms, and professional organisations to provide diverse learning opportunities. Additionally, there could be internal policies within research institutions that encourage or require ongoing professional development, mentorship programs designed to facilitate knowledge exchange between experienced and early-career scientists, and funding support enabling researchers to attend conferences, seminars, and workshops for their professional growth.

9.4 Work Conditions


Helper text: Decent labour conditions include fair wages and benefits, a safe work environment, reasonable working hours for work-life balance, and policies promoting equality and non-discrimination. Additionally, opportunities for professional development, rights to association and collective bargaining, job security, and attention to psychological well-being are crucial. 



Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to labour laws, health and safety regulations, anti-discrimination laws, education and training policies, and laws supporting workers' rights to unionise and negotiate collectively. 



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to the implementation of work-hour regulations to prevent excessive workloads and ensure adequate rest periods, the provision of health and safety regulations specific to STI work environments, and the development of programmes and initiatives that support work-life balance, professional development, and mental health well-being. 




Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to laws on conservation of the environment and prevention of pollution, laws on atomic energy/power and  waste management acts. 



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to the development and enforcement of stringent safety regulations and protocols specific to the handling of dangerous materials, mandatory training and certification programmes for workers in these high-risk areas and regular safety audits and inspections of laboratories and facilities handling hazardous substances. 

9.5 Performance Appraisal





Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to
legal frameworks that facilitate patenting and intellectual property rights for
innovators, the implementation of government-funded grant programmes that
reward innovative research and technological advancements, and the
establishment of national awards and honours for outstanding contributions in
these fields.



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to awards prizes to citizens and researchers who have made a significant contribution to the development of science, or to support and encourage scientists to promote science and technology innovation in order to enhance national science and technology capacity and competitiveness. 
Deadline 31 March 2025
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KEY AREA 10. Enabling environment for science, research and innovation

[paragraphs 5, 11, 14(a), 17, 24(a), 26, 37, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47]

10.1 Infrastructure and R&D services


Paragraphs 5(b), 6, 8, 9, 24(a)



Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to laws on scientific activities, laws for the encouragement of industrial research and development, laws on innovation, and any laws determining the organisation, functioning and mission of national research and innovation funds.



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to the development and implementation of national research agendas and priorities, guiding both public and private sector research, developing accreditation systems for research institutions to ensure quality and compliance with national standards and initiating programmes for the evaluation and monitoring of research impacts.




Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to legal frameworks that support and regulate public-private partnerships and collaborative projects and  the creation of government-funded platforms or networks for knowledge exchange and joint research among universities, research institutions, and industry.



Helper text:  Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to programmes to promote the realisation of projects that involve the articulation between the business sector and academia, or funds for the commercialisation activities for research results by selling products/services developed, by creating spin-off companies, or by licensing IP to third parties. 




Helper text:  Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to establishment of government grants and funding programmes specifically for laboratory upgrades and research technology,  the development of public-private partnerships to facilitate resource sharing and collaborative research projects, and the implementation of standardised safety and quality regulations for laboratory operations.



Helper text:  Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to accreditation programmes for research laboratories, laboratory safety and hygiene programmes, and any complementary support for the acquisition of scientific equipment. 

Helper text: Examples of STI's supply side are the academic sector, government research and development centres, etc. Examples of STI’s demand side are the business-enterprise and other productive sectors.



Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to the creation of public funding programmes specifically targeting collaborative projects between research institutions and industry, legal frameworks supporting intellectual property rights to encourage joint ventures and technology transfer, and tax incentives for businesses investing in research and development partnerships.



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to practical training programmes in market oriented innovation, programmes to strengthen the competitiveness of SME and promote employment creation, and  seed funds programmes. 







10.2 Public Funding for R&D









%


Helper text: Total domestic intramural expenditure on R&D during a given year divided by the GDP (i.e. the sum of gross value added by all resident producers in the economy, including distributive trades and transport, plus any product taxes and minus any subsidies not included in the value of the products) and multiplied by 100.

10.3 Publications and Patents





Helper text: Examples of legal policy instruments include but are not limited to intellectual property laws, rules, regulations and treaties; laws on inventions, utility models and industrial designs, and trademark acts. 



Helper text: Examples of operational policy instruments include but are not limited to public awareness programmes, incentives for innovation, online IP enforcement, international IP agreements, advisory services for IP issues, technology and innovation support centres, and market surveillance for IP compliance.
Deadline 31 March 2025
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Trends and Priorities Section










Deadline 31 March 2025
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