Risk Analysis

Key Aspects

Risk analysis

In the context of knowledge security, a risk analysis involves considering a range of risks that may occur during international cooperation. The level of risk is determined by a combination of factors. The key elements of the assessment can be grouped into four categories:

1. Profile of your organization

  • Strengths and vulnerabilities
  • Scientific leadership
  • Financial dependencies related to the project

2. Level of sensitivity of the scientific or technological field

  • Security
  • Human rights
  • Dual-use technologies
  • Essential Enabling Technologies

3. Risk profile of the partner country

  • Countries at high risk (rule of law deficiencies, civil-military fusion, or limited academic freedom)
  • International sanctions
  • Government policies to become a world leader in the scientific field of the project

4. Risk profile of the international partner

  • Transparency during the negotiation process
  • Links to the government or the military
  • Governance structure
  • Sources of funding
  • Previous scandals
  • Actual intentions regarding the final use of the results

For a more detailed study of the questions to propose for carrying out the risk analysis, it is recommended to read the European Commission document "Research Security: Building blocks for risk appraisal"