Cluster Analysis of Research and Development Capacity In Europe

The role of innovation in economic development cannot be overstated, particularly in the context of emerging market economies and newly industrialized countries, where it serves as a catalyst for national growth and international competitiveness. Human capital plays an indispensable role in developing knowledge economies, and its importance has become increasingly emphasized within the European Union as the region seeks to maintain its competitiveness in green and digital transitions. Cluster analysis offers a methodologically robust approach to grouping countries on similarities in their R&D profiles. By identifying clusters with comparable R&D characteristics, it is possible to gain deeper insights into the strengths and weaknesses of national innovation systems. Understanding the distribution of R&D capacity across Europe can facilitate international collaborations and promote knowledge among countries with similar strengths and challenges. This research paper aims to explore the clustering of European countries based on their R&D capacity, providing a comprehensive analysis of key metrics and their implications for national innovation strategies. The study relies on the most important distinction identified among four clusters of the total 35 European countries that were the subject of the research.