EU Reports Advocate Dual-Use Research for Innovation Gains
Brussels, Wednesday, 2 July 2025.
The European Commission published reports stressing dual-use technology as key to both civilian and military applications, urging policy makers, especially in the Netherlands, to adopt these strategies.
Impact of Dual-Use Technology on EU Policy
On June 24, 2025, the European Commission released two pivotal reports focusing on dual-use research and innovation (R&I). The reports ‘Making the most of EU Research and Innovation Investments: rethinking dual use’ and ‘Unlocking the Potential of Dual-Use Research and Innovation’ are intended to guide upcoming EU policy development, particularly as the Horizon Europe program progresses towards its successor. By emphasizing dual-use strategies, these documents highlight a shift towards integrating both civilian and military applications within innovation policies to address global challenges [1].
Strategic Implications for the Netherlands
For the Netherlands, the implications of adopting dual-use strategies could be profound. The reports stress the necessity for national policymakers and innovation managers to incorporate these strategies into local ecosystems. Encouraging collaborations between civilian researchers and defense agencies, the Commission advocates for leveraging dual-use technology to bolster innovation and address pressing societal issues like cybersecurity threats and environmental challenges [1][2].
Navigating Ethical Considerations
A critical insight from the Commission’s reports is the call for an ethical framework surrounding dual-use technologies. The reports argue that technological development should consider ethical, legal, and social implications from inception. This strategic ‘dual-use by design’ approach ensures that innovations are tailored to meet both civilian and defense needs, enhancing the impact and efficiency of public research investments. However, several stakeholders have raised concerns about the potential ethical ramifications of military applications in civilian technologies [1][3].
Future Directions for Dual-Use Strategies
As Europe moves toward integrating dual-use considerations into its research and innovation policies, the Commission’s reports serve as crucial guides for future policy frameworks. The emphasis on dual-use reflects broader European strategies aimed at security, autonomy, and technological resilience, aligning with global trends towards collaborative R&I. By adopting these strategies, the EU aims to protect and strengthen its position as a leader in global innovation, simultaneously advancing its strategic autonomy and security interests [2].