Raising public awareness of science and technology - call

The European Commission has launched an action to raise public awareness of scientific activities and technological developments, in particular those related to European research programmes. The intention is to help European citizens understand how these developments affect t...

The European Commission has launched an action to raise public awareness of scientific activities and technological developments, in particular those related to European research programmes.

The intention is to help European citizens understand how these developments affect their everyday lives, and to increase scientists' understanding of issues and subjects of concern to the public.

The initiative follows a Decision of the European Parliament and Council of 22 December 1998 relating to the Fifth Framework Programme, and a Council Decision of 25 January 1999.

Where possible activities should build on and complement national activities. There are four aspects of the call:

Cooperation networks for exchanging best practice are to be encouraged. Proposals in this area may be wide-ranging, but they must involve five non-affiliated partners in at least three Member States, and must demonstrate that the exchange of best practice will raise public awareness of science and technology.

Activities in support of a European Science and Technology Week, scheduled for November 2001, will also be supported by the call. Activities will show and explain the beneficial impact of science for a non-specialist public.

Proposals for round table meetings organised around topics related to European priority RTD areas to discuss issues related to and techniques for raising awareness.

And finally, the dissemination of science-related information via electronic networks and other appropriate means.

The indicative total EU budget available is 4 million euros.

The documents required to respond to this call may be downloaded from CORDIS at:

http://cordis.europa.eu/improving/calls/rpast_200002.htm
For further information please contact:

European Commission
Research Directorate-General
Directorate F (Raising Public Awareness)
Rue de la Loi/Wetstraat 200
B-1049 Brussels
E-mail: [e-mail]
URL: http://cordis.europa.eu/improving/
Fax [phone]