Dutch Research Council NWO "fulfils its role in the Dutch research system" independent evaluation says

The Dutch Research Council (NWO) has been evaluated by an external party, which concluded that it "plays a substantial and unique role in the Dutch scientific landscape and carries out that role in a highly professional manner".

The NWO is evaluated every five years as it is an independent administrative body of the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science. The Bureau Berenschot (an independent Dutch management consultant) examined the period 2020-2024 and stated that NWO "fulfilled its role in the Dutch research system in an agile and strategic manner", the Council said on 11/05/2026.

"This has not been the easiest of times, with the coronavirus pandemic at the start and the cuts by the Schoof government at the end. We are very pleased with the positive outcome of the evaluation, which concludes that NWO has demonstrated adaptability and managed to operate in an agile and strategic manner, whilst effectively and efficiently carrying out its statutory duties," Marcel Levi, President of NWO, said.

The evaluation stated that, through its funding activities, "NWO makes a substantial…