Situating innovation policy in Mediterranean Arab countries: A research agenda for context sensitivity

Author(s): Christian Haddad, Maximilian Karl Peter Benner
Abstract: Innovation policy is embedded in local contexts that shape its courses and outcomes. However, the role of context is often neglected in the design and implementation of innovation policies. Critical questions such as what innovation actually means, what kind of innovation policies may be beneficial in a given country and for specific sectors, regions and actors, and what kinds of policies and programs can help promote innovation in a feasible and effective manner are rarely addressed. Focusing on Mediterranean Arab countries with their political and economic proximity to the EU, this article proposes three conceptual shifts towards a context-sensitive approach to innovation policy design and analysis. Drawing on insights from relational economic geography, interpretive policy analysis, and science and technology studies, the article discusses how these three shifts enable new perspectives on innovation policies in Tunisia, Jordan, and Egypt. The article suggests a research agenda that can stimulate discussion and lead to a new approach in innovation studies and policy for Arab countries in the EU's neighborhood.
Organisation(s): Department of Science and Technology Studies, Department of Geography and Regional Research
Journal: Research policy
Volume: 50
No. of pages: 12
ISSN: 0048-7333
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.respol.2021.104273
Publication date: 09-2021
Peer reviewed: Yes
Austrian Fields of Science 2012: 506017 Science and technology policy, 504028 Sociology of technology, 507026 Economic geography
Keywords
ASJC Scopus subject areas: Management of Technology and Innovation, Strategy and Management, Management Science and Operations Research
Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 9 - Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
Portal url: https://ucrisportal.univie.ac.at/en/publications/6e28de70-e103-4ee5-8428-5c33943456f8

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