In recent years, the need for free access to research infrastructures with accumulated and searchable scientific information has been reflected in the number of international policies. Issues of open access to scientific content, collaboration and networking across academic, scientific and educational community lie at the heart of European discourse about the Knowledge Society.

The European map for research e-infrastructure which defines e- infrastructures as public goods, fundamental elements for education and essential for economies of scale, has been the backbone for NISRT’s implementation. It focuses on ICT- based infrastructures and services that cut across a range of user disciplines and aims at empowering researchers with open online access to scientific resources, a range of facilities, networking and collaboration tools.

Overall, policies for research e-infrastructures at European level aim at:

Ensuring the citizens’ right for free access to knowledge

Supporting existing research infrastructures

Developing e-infrastructures at the European level which provide open access to digital information for science, culture and education.

Resolving contemporary issues related to copyright, digitization, management and disposal of primary research datasets, the preservation of digital content, the development of virtual collaborative environments for scientists

Developing innovative services and tools that improve the quality of research and educational activities

Supporting integration of research activities in the EU and the creation of a ‘single research area’

Promoting cooperation and interconnection between European centers of excellence in research.

At  national level, policies for research e-Infrastructures are implemented through the Operational Program "Digital Convergence" which also funds NISRT. In a constantly changing socio- economic environment, NISRT meets the ever-expanding requirements and technological challenges (e.g. broadband, technological convergence, modern information systems), adheres to international standards of performance and develops integrated actions on key issues in research, education and innovation. NISRT evolves with a clear European orientation to produce tangible results such as providing access to digital content, data and services.