FACIAS accuses the Ministry of Education of blocking 60 billion lei for research and threatens legal action if the situation is not remedied by January 17.

The Ministry of Education in Romania is facing serious accusations, being accused of blocking 60 billion lei intended for 10 research, development, and innovation programs. The FACIAS Foundation has warned that it will sue the ministry if it does not issue the necessary documents for the implementation of these programs. Although the National Research, Development, and Innovation Plan was adopted in 2022 and has been operational for three years, only 6% of the funds have been spent. The National Authority for Research claims that the methodological norms from 2004 are still applicable, but criticisms persist, considering that Romania allocates only 0.46% of GDP for research, well below the EU average of 2.24%. This situation affects the country's ability to attract funds and develop innovation ecosystems. The ministry is urged to take action by January 17 to avoid the lawsuit.