Situating innovation policy in Mediterranean Arab countries: A research agenda for context sensitivity

• Reviews the role of context in innovation policy along three conceptual shifts: from structural conditions and innovation systems to sociotechnical imaginaries of innovation; from policy evidence to the politics of knowledge; and from policy transfer to sociotechnical translation. • Develops a multidisciplinary theoretical perspective combining insights from relational economic geography, interpretive policy analysis, and science and technology studies (STS). • Presents insights into selected cases of innovation policies in three countries (Tunisia, Jordan, Egypt). • Proposes a research agenda for innovation policy design and analysis in Mediterranean Arab countries. Innovation policy is embedded in local contexts that shape its courses and outcomes. However, the role of context is often neglected in the design and implementation of innovation policies. Critical questions such as what innovation actually means, what kind of innovation policies may be beneficial in a given country and for specific sectors, regions and actors, and what kinds of policies and programs can help promote innovation in a feasible and effective manner are rarely addressed. Focusing on Mediterranean Arab countries with their political and economic proximity to the EU, this article proposes three conceptual shifts towards a context-sensitive approach to innovation policy design and analysis. Drawing on insights from relational economic geography, interpretive policy analysis, and science and technology studies, the article discusses how these three shifts enable new perspectives on innovation policies in Tunisia, Jordan, and Egypt. The article suggests a research agenda that can stimulate discussion and lead to a new approach in innovation studies and policy for Arab countries in the EU's neighborhood.