Nearly 2,000 Researchers Protest Government Plan to Absorb IRD into CNRS

A collective of nearly 2,000 researchers has voiced strong opposition to the French government's proposal to merge the Research Institute for Development (IRD) into the National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS). The researchers argue that such a consolidation would undermine a vital scientific institution.

In an opinion piece published by Libération, the scientists contend that the IRD's unique focus on long-term research, international cooperation, and scientific independence is essential for tackling the complex challenges facing the world today. They fear that absorbing the IRD into the larger CNRS structure would dilute its mission and capacity.

The researchers emphasize that the IRD's work, often conducted in developing countries and addressing issues like climate change, public health, and sustainable development, requires a distinct approach. They believe that integrating it into the CNRS, which has different priorities and operational models, would jeopardize the continuity and effectiveness of these critical long-term studies.

This opposition highlights a significant debate within the French scientific community about the future structure of research institutions and the best way to ensure scientific independence and effectiveness in addressing global issues.