Cyprus Lags Behind in Research
Time for a National Strategy for Investment in Knowledge
7 November 2025, AKEL C.C. Press Office, Nicosia
According to a special survey conducted by the Cyprus Statistical Service (2023), total expenditure on research and development accounts for just 0.68% of Cyprus’ GDP. In short, research and development are underfunded by the state, which deprives society of the opportunity to create sustainable employment, provide more dynamic public services and a self-sufficient knowledge-based economy.
In some EU countries, research is considered a public good, and social investment brings tangible results:
- In Finland, with 3.1% investment of GDP, there is long-term state investment in public education and research, close links forged between universities, the state, and employees, and a strategy has been elaborated to promote social innovation.
- In Denmark, with 3.3% investment of GDP and high levels of public funding for research, with an emphasis on health, social welfare, and green transition, there is a model in place that ensures equal access and social benefit.
- In Sweden, with 3.64% investment of GDP, state support and collective research planning are combined through the waging of a social dialogue, promoting policies that prioritize social cohesion and environmental justice.
These are examples that demonstrate that when research serves society rather than private interests, it produces real progress, reduces inequalities, and supports the democracy of knowledge.
Countries that want to be considered socially progressive must strengthen the public aspect of investment.
To this end, AKEL proposes the following measures to the government:
- National target: Set a target of at least 1.5% of GDP for Research and Development by 2030.
- Immediately increase public spending on research and ensure that research funding strengthens social and public interests.
- Significantly strengthen medical research, social sciences, humanities, and practical innovation that serves society as a whole and not just technology to serve corporate competition.
- Strengthen education and research careers and support the structures of public universities and research institutions with stable funding, guaranteed positions for young researchers, and stable career paths.
- Make full use of EU funding instruments (such as Horizon Europe), with adequate national contributions and transparent management, so that research does not only serve foreign interests.
- Establish an annual report on R&D expenditure, publicly accessible, with a breakdown by sector and the creation of a progress index, so that citizens know where the money is going and what the social impact is.
Cyprus can and must break the passive policy pursued in the field of research and innovation. AKEL proposes and supports a socially oriented approach to research, where knowledge is not viewed as a commodity but a force for social liberation, public benefit, and equitable development.
