Prague – Sweden and Denmark have been identified as the most innovative countries in the EU, with the Czech Republic positioned 19th. Bulgaria and Romania are at the bottom of the rankings among the 27 member states, according to a European Commission report. The report highlights that the Czech Republic’s innovation efforts are hampered by insufficient public and private investment, lack of collaboration between academia and businesses, and a relatively low number of university graduates. Additionally, the Czech Republic’s participation in available EU programs is minimal.
“The Czech Republic is currently at 80 percent of the EU average. It is concerning that over the past seven years, we have made virtually no progress, and we have seen a decline of nearly ten percentage points year-on-year. Together with Cyprus, we have experienced the largest drop in Europe. Innovation is essential for economic growth and competitiveness,” stated David Kotris, director of enovation, a grant consulting firm.
He emphasized the importance of private investment funds as a potential driver for innovative growth in the future. “The relationship between the academic and commercial sectors is still not at the level seen in more developed countries; investors are not yet eager to invest in research, while academics often resist engaging with commercial investors,” he asserted. Although the Czech Republic is establishing basic innovative capabilities, there is a lack of systemic integration and advancement. This deficiency is evident in the country’s low technological development, shortage of skilled personnel, low labor productivity, and a limited number of university-educated individuals.
The Czech Republic also has a minimal footprint in international programs designed to support research and development. At the start of the year, it recorded a total of 1,366 participations, representing just 1.6 percent of all participations by EU member states. In the Czech Republic, there are only 3.4 participations per 1,000 scientists and engineers, which is below the Western European average.
The study notes that the Czech Republic benefits from above-average digital skills and an increasing export of high-tech products. Over the past decade, business investment in research and development has doubled. “However, just under 100 billion remains insufficient when compared to Europe; the influence of private funds must significantly increase and will be crucial for future growth,” Kotris added. (August 4)
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