Research policy in Latvia is being developed in accordance with the national Guidelines for Science, Technology Development, and Innovation and the Law On Scientific Activity.
The Latvian research system is developed in line with European Research Area (ERA) to synchronize the Latvian research system with the research systems of other EU member states, increase research results to EU standards and strengthen the capacity of scientists in Latvia to solve global societal challenges.
Research policy in Latvia is developed in accordance with the Latvian Research and Innovation Strategy for Smart Specialisation (RIS3) to strengthen Latvia’s research and innovation capacity and stimulate social and economic transformation towards higher added value and resource-efficiency. This goal is approached by increasing investments in research and innovation and reducing institutional barriers.
Government:
- prepares and submits national research development strategic plans for approval in the Parliament;
- approves national research programs;
- ensures co-operation between ministries and the implementation of the regulatory framework.
Ministry of Education and Science:
- ensures the development and implementation of science policy;
- organizes the financing and evaluation of scientific institutions;
- coordinates international research cooperation at the national level;
- is responsible for the planning, coordination, implementation and monitoring of science policy in higher education and research institutions.
Ministry of Economics is responsible for developing innovation policy in relation to the development of entrepreneurial competitiveness.