Programme of research and development (EEC) in the field of science and technology for development, 1983-1986

Executed in accordance with the Council Regulation of 14 January 1974 (Official Journal No C 7 of 29.1.1974) on an initial outline programme of the European Communities in the field of science and technology, it was included in the first Framework Programme (1984-1987) under activity 6: "Development Aid".

Although designed primarily for the developing countries, this first R&D programme in support of science and technology for development tackled some problems, such as AIDS and certain animal diseases, of common interest to both European and developing countries.
To support and reinforce science and technology for development by R&D measures in the field of food and health, such as steps to improve tropical agriculture and to combat transmissible diseases, through greater cooperation between Member State scientists on Third World questions and by focusing the scientific community's attention on the problems of development.
Two subprogrammes:

- Tropical and subtropical agriculture:
The improvement of agricultural products, conservation and better use of the environment, agricultural engineering and production systems;

- Medicine, health and nutrition in tropical and subtropical areas:
Transmissible diseases, mother and child care, genetics and environmental hygiene as well as nutrition and training.
The Commission, which was responsible for implementing the programme, was assisted by two Advisory Committees on Programme Management (ACPMs), one dealing with "Tropical Agriculture" and the other with "Medicine, health and nutrition in the tropics".

The dissemination of information was subject to special conditions. The Commission evaluated the programme in its second year with the help of independent specialists.