In favour of maintaining the Swiss Science Council

The Federal Council is seeking to dissolve a number of extra-parliamentary commissions, including the Swiss Science Council (SSC). It has launched a consultation procedure to this end, inviting the SNSF in particular to participate.

The SSC is a citizen-based advisory body typical for Switzerland. It takes an independent and long-term view of the entire Swiss education, research and innovation (ERI) system. The costs that it incurs are minimal, but its role is crucial and has contributed to Switzerland’s excellence as a centre of scientific research for 60 years.

The SSC’s central role in the ERI system

The SSC possesses the expertise, the holistic view and the legitimacy to situate and evaluate the SNSF’s activities within the ERI system. Its independence and long-term vision are essential conditions for this role.

If this indispensable function is integrated into existing administrative structures, there is a real risk of a narrowing of perspective, of short-term management thinking and of unjustified interventions in the system. This reorganisation could undermine the long-term success of the Swiss research sector and its international competitiveness.

Independent expertise

By deciding to dissolve the SSC, Switzerland would be embarking on a path that is unprecedented in international comparison. In the SSC’s view, no other country with an ERI system of comparable significance foregoes such independent expertise.

The SNSF understands that the Federal Council systematically reviews its bodies to assess whether improvements are possible or adjustments required in light of changing circumstances. In the view of the SNSF, however, it is essential for Switzerland to have an independent, permanent and legitimate advisory body, such as the SSC. It is not in the interests of Switzerland and its ERI system to give up this unique expertise without replacing it.