Towards a European Research Area – Science, Technology and Innovation. Key figures 2003-2004

This publication provides a set of indicators which help the reader to take stock of Europe's position in science, technology and the knowledge economy. The report contains graphs, tables and comparative analyses of the European Union's performance in relation to its main partners. On the eve of enlargement of the European Union, the report also presents, for the first time, extensive data for the Acceding Countries, and as much data as possible for the EU Candidate Countries. In the introduction an updated version of the composite indicators on investment and performance in the knowledge-based economy for the EU-15, the Acceding and Candidate countries, Japan and the US, is presented. Part I of the report examines EU investment in the knowledge-based economy through indicators of R&D expenditure, venture capital, human resources and education. Part II considers the results of this investment in terms of EU performance in scientific output, patenting, and competitiveness in high technology industries and products.