Samfundsrelevante

Samfundsrelevante is a Danish term describing something that has significance or relevance for society. The word is a compound of samfund meaning “society” and relevante meaning “relevant.” In Danish discourse it is used to characterize activities, programs, or research whose outcomes are expected to benefit citizens, inform public life, or influence policy. The concept is common in policy discussions, higher education, and public administration.

In research contexts, samfundsrelevante forskning refers to studies anticipated to generate knowledge with practical applications or direct benefits for citizens, organizations, and public institutions. It often includes co-creation with users and stakeholders, dissemination beyond academia, and potential implementation in practice or policy. While the emphasis is on societal impact or relevance to public priorities such as health, climate, education, integration, or digital inclusion, the term can also apply to basic research if it yields insights with potential societal implications.

Measuring societal relevance is a topic of debate. Proponents argue it enhances accountability and alignment with public needs; critics warn it may risk instrumentalizing science or undervaluing curiosity-driven work. In Denmark, universities, research councils, and funding agencies increasingly integrate societal relevance into strategic plans and grant criteria, sometimes through impact statements, dissemination requirements, and collaborations with civil society, industry, or government.

Beyond Denmark, the concept appears in European funding frameworks and broader science policy discussions, reflecting a trend to connect research to societal goals while seeking to balance immediate usefulness with long-term discovery.