What does the Recognition & Rewards programme mean for the international position of Dutch academic research?

There are concerns in the academic community about the international position of Dutch science in connection with the implementation of the Recognition & Rewards programme. These concerns have also been expressed in the House of Representatives. In response, the standing committee on Education, Culture and Science tabled a request in July 2022 to clarify how academic quality can be determined. In its letter of advice published in December 2022, the AWTI outlines the ways in which the quality of academic work can be assessed, what the pros and cons are, and which new developments are taking place in this regard.

The AWTI also looked at the international context, stating that another form of academic evaluation does not appear to threaten the international position or reputation of Dutch science. In addition, the international movement which is already underway shows that a new approach to recognition and rewards is inevitable. The Netherlands is a forerunner in this regard, but is not alone. Being ahead offers opportunities to set the direction. The programme is committed to engaging international partners in order to further shape other ways of recognising and rewarding.