International cooperation in scientific research is crucial for scientific progress, but also comes with risks in terms of knowledge security. The Knowledge Security Desk was established in 2022 as a central point of contact to support knowledge institutions in recognising and managing risks related to unwanted knowledge transfer, covert influence, and ethical dilemmas in international collaboration. The Desk achieves this through two core tasks: providing tailored advice to institutions and facilitating a national learning community where knowledge and experiences are shared. On behalf of the Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science, Dialogic, in collaboration with Oberon, is conducting an evaluation on the functioning and outcomes of the Desk. This research looks back on the Desk's initial years: how effective and efficient is it in increasing awareness, self-regulation, and resilience of institutions? How do involved parties (especially knowledge institutions themselves) experience the support? And how does the Desk relate to the broader policy efforts of OCW in the field of knowledge security? Looking ahead, is the Desk sustainable in a context of increasing international tensions? And what role does the Desk play in the future, for example, in proactively advising institutions? The results of this evaluation provide OCW with substantiated insights into the effectiveness and efficiency of the Desk, as well as guidance for further strengthening the national knowledge security approach. This research contributes to a resilient, open, and safe knowledge environment in the Netherlands.

2026

2025