Enhancing the New Zealand-European Union Relationship in

the Field of Science and Technology

Gina Deerness-Plesner

The Question…

• In 1991, a Science and Technology Cooperation (STC) Agreement was formed between the EU and New Zealand.

• However, in 2006, much scope exists to develop this relationship further.

• Is a future EU-New Zealand relationship in the field of research, science and technology both feasible and appropriate and, if so, how can New Zealand raise its profile in the EU to become an important partner in joint research enterprises?

Technical Stuff

• Research Objectives– Recognition of an existing problem.– Desire to improve the status quo.– Planning for the future.

• Theoretical Framework– The nature of the EU: global actor and external relations.

• Research Methods– Primary, primary, primary!

Thesis Outline

• Overview– 1991 STC a “paper tiger”?

• New Zealand Motivations– RS&T important in generating economic, environmental and

social benefits.– Cost effectiveness.– Problems created by our clean, green image.

• EU Motivations– 50 years behind the US?– EU defined projects… – Brain drain?

Thesis Outline (cont’d)

• Alternative Options– EU as most appropriate vehicle?– NZ investment in forging bilateral links.– The US, China and Japan… a dilution of funds?

• Comparative Study – The Experience of Other Third Countries– Australia: S&T Agreement, Marie Curie, FEAST.– Canada: S&T Agreement, Era-Can.

• Case Study– Success rate of participation in EU led projects.– VOLcanoes, EUROPREVALL and ISAFRUIT.

Progress…

• Overview– 1991 STC Arrangement, 1999 Joint Declaration, 2004 Science

Counsellor to Brussels.– New Zealand S&T cooperation – a history of symbolism.– RS&T as a tool to enhance diplomatic ties.– NZ concentration on bilateral relationships.– Limited private sector investment.– Inability to participate in previous Framework Programmes.