Cesaer university group publishes method for dealing with dual-use technology research

Cesaer, an association of over 50 European science and technology universities, has set out a way to classify dual-use research that aims to protect institutional autonomy and scientific excellence.

The approach, which Cesaer published in a note on 26/03/2026, says that the EU should use two categories when defining dual-use research: one, a legal definition; and second, a "strategic pathway" approach that identifies how relevant the research is to defence uses. The second category is based on a “spectrum principle” that allows authorities to determine when and how restrictions are implemented, rather than using binary classification.

The European Commission proposed in 2025 to allow the European Innovation Council to invest in dual-use technology (that can be used for both civilian and military purposes) to strengthen the EU’s defence readiness.

Since the Commission decided to allow investment in dual-use technology, there has been extensive debate surrounding the possible restrictions that should be placed on that research.

Cesaer argues that the term “dual-use” is too ambiguous…