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In view of a changing geopolitical environment and the growth of international research cooperations, knowledge security is becoming increasingly important for Swiss universities. Knowledge security aims to prevent the undesirable transfer of sensitive information, know-how and technologies while ensuring scientific excellence and cooperation. 

A working group set up by swissuniversities has produced a report on knowledge security for Swiss universities. The report outlines a framework for reconciling security, academic freedom and international competitiveness. 

The report recommends three axes of action: 

• Axis 1: Raising awareness and building capacity at Swiss universities to better identify and manage risks associated with sensitive knowledge assets. 
• Axis 2: Improving the legal framework to effectively support knowledge security measures. 
• Axis 3: National coordination and strategic oversight through the development of mechanisms that enable partners in education, research and innovation (ERI) and government agencies to respond in a coordinated manner to the identified challenges. 

The planned cooperation between ERI partners and government agencies will be coordinated by a national contact point. 

The three recommended axes of action provide a comprehensive framework for reconciling security requirements with the preservation of academic freedom, openness and excellence in research.