Turkey has experienced tremendous development these years in many areas and one of these key and strategic areas is undoubtedly research and science. Indeed, in that context, a special attention has been given to create a comprehensive development strategy. Within the framework of this vision, the objective is for Turkey to reach the same level as the EU with respect to science and research policies.

On the other hand, Turkey still has a long way to go in contrast to the EU in that particular area. Whilst Turkey has focused significantly on science and research in the last ten years, its share of gross domestic expenditure on research and development in 2014 was at 1.01% according to OECD statistics. Therefore, whilst there have been significant developments in Turkey’s science and research policy, it is of utmost importance to stress that there is still some major reforms to undertake in order to fully integrate with the EU in that area as well.

IKV Brief entitled “Turkey’s involvement in EU science and research policies” prepared by IKV Junior Researcher Deniz Servantie can be reached here.