Slovak Scientists Face Potential Loss of Independent Grant Evaluation System

Slovak scientists may lose their long-sought independent grant evaluation system under proposed changes to the country's grant agency. Paula Puškárová from Hlas-SD, a member of the ruling coalition, has submitted legislation that would modify how the grant agency operates. Scientists have advocated for years to establish an independent evaluation process for research funding, viewing it as crucial for maintaining scientific integrity and ensuring merit-based distribution of grants. The proposed changes come at a time when Slovakia's scientific community has been pushing for reforms to reduce political influence in research funding decisions and align the country's grant system with international standards.