On September 17, we submitted a letter (together with many other Dutch Young Academies) to Minister Eppo Bruins pointing to our concerns about the planned budget cuts in higher education and research. These plans, in our view, are counterproductive and not in the best interest of the Netherlands.
We experience daily how challenging it is to secure funding for socially valuable and impactful research, although the returns on such investments are undeniable. This makes sufficient and targeted governmental funding so important. In this context, the proposed budget cuts to scientific and higher education are particularly severe. These cuts directly impact the Netherlands' knowledge economy and long-term prosperity, particularly at a time when international tensions and the need for strategic autonomy in knowledge development are rising.
With over 300 members, the Young Academies represent young researchers from various disciplines who consistently contribute to vital societal issues, such as improving the housing market, combating crime, and advancing medical treatments.
We urge the Minister to reconsider these changes and remain available for further discussion. Our nation's future relies on stable, structured government funding for science.
Link to NOS.nl