The Confederation of Scientific Societies of Spain (COSCE) and the Federation of Spanish Scientific Medical Associations (FACME) have demanded that the next Government increase investment in science, research, and development (R&D) to place it above two percent of GDP.
In view of the general elections on November 29, both organizations have presented five major lines of action that they consider "essential" for the Spanish System of Science, Technology, and Innovation (SECTI) to face "with guarantees an immediate future of enormous uncertainties and challenges" and for Spain to remain in line, in economic, technological, and social terms, with the most advanced countries.
First, they have requested an increase in funding allocated to Knowledge Generation Projects, considered the key instrument to sustain research groups and lines. To this end, they demand an investment in science that is "sufficient, stable, and sustained over time."
The scientific and scientific-medical societies have also asked to reduce the administrative burden and bureaucracy that weighs on projects and research centers, without compromising transparency or accountability. At the same time, they urge the creation of an attractive environment for research talent, reviewing the scientific career and, in particular, salaries and working conditions.
At the same time, they demand an update and a boost to infrastructures and the recognition of research work in universities, which they point out as the "cornerstone" of higher education and a "guarantee" of a future society based on knowledge, innovation, and the generation of technological, economic, and social value.
Finally, they insist on the need to strengthen the links between the research conducted in universities and public centers and its transfer to the productive fabric, through structures that facilitate and reinforce the creation of value and business competitiveness through innovation.