Logo image
Conclusion
Book chapter

Conclusion

Brendan Walker-Munro and Tommy Shih
The Routledge International Handbook of Research Security
Routledge International Handbooks, Routledge, 1st
04/02/2026

Metrics

16 Record Views

Abstract

The intersection of science, technology, and geopolitics has become increasingly pronounced in recent years. Academia and higher education are now seen as critical battlegrounds in the intensifying geopolitical rivalry among major science regions such as the United States, China, and the European Union. Policymakers in these regions view global science as both a necessity and an arms race for technological and innovation leadership. Such developments increase the pressure on national governments to align their science policies with the strategic goals of allies, thereby disincentivizing scientific collaboration with geopolitical rivals. It is against this backdrop that research security has gained considerable attention in the past few years. This heightened awareness is largely driven by state actors and governments, especially in advanced Western scientific nations.

Details

Logo image