Overview

The main objective of the Universities Revitalising Growth and Empowerment in the Danube Region (URGE)project is to develop a multiannual, multilateral framework for creating lasting impact through collaboration with the scientific diaspora in participating countries.

The project addresses the shared challenge of brain drain and explores the potential of scientific diaspora communities to help mitigate its effects. Brain drain has had a significant impact on Southeast Europe, as highly skilled researchers and professionals often pursue opportunities abroad, resulting in a loss of human capital, knowledge, and expertise in their countries of origin.

At the same time, there is a substantial lack of reliable data on the size, characteristics, and potential engagement of the scientific diaspora. URGE seeks to address this gap while recognizing the diaspora as an important resource for regional development. Beyond financial contributions, diaspora communities can act as agents of change by facilitating the transfer of knowledge, expertise, professional networks, and opportunities for scientific collaboration.

Project duration: November 2024–November 2025
Funder: Interreg Danube Region
Total project budget: €124,950.00
Partners: University of Belgrade, University of Montenegro, University of Mostar, and University of Ljubljana

CAS’s Contribution

CAS draws on the University of Rijeka’s familiarity with Croatia’s Unity through Knowledge Fund (UKF) programme, which fostered scientific collaboration between Croatian researchers at home and abroad. The program offers valuable experience in developing effective mechanisms for diaspora engagement, including innovative administration, merit-based selection, and support for collaborative research.

Building on the successes and lessons of the UKF, CAS contributes expertise in designing approaches that strengthen cooperation between researchers and their scientific diaspora counterparts. This includes facilitating joint research initiatives, promoting knowledge and network exchange, and identifying ways to mobilize diaspora expertise in support of research and innovation.

The project also provides an opportunity to adapt relevant elements of the UKF model to the specific institutional and regional context of the URGE partnership. Through this transfer and adaptation of knowledge, CAS aims to strengthen capacities for diaspora engagement, promote research excellence, and contribute to scientific cooperation and innovation across the Danube region.

Team: