The Implications of the EU’s Dual-Use Export Control Regulation 2021/821 for Universities and Academics

Abstract

This working paper aims to describe a basic framework regarding the EU’s export control regulation, Regulation (EU) 2021/821, for research organisations. Dual-use export controls regulate the international transfer of items (including knowledge) which could serve both civilian and military purposes. Such regulation is applicable to the development and dissemination of research and may limit academic activity when it is seen as posing security risks. The application of export controls to research may thus give rise to intricate tensions with the protection of academic freedom and the institutional autonomy of universities. The main objective of the paper is to provide an overview of the relevance of the regulation, as a basis for further research and discussion over academic freedom and export controls in complex geo-political contexts.