Why the US Is a “Difficult” Science Partner
July 28, 2025
International science and technology collaborations bring many benefits beyond access to critical technologies and scientific knowledge. Partnering also enables the development of shared norms and practices, expands capacity to undertake complex projects, and enhances global prestige—not to mention fostering economic development in the places where large projects are sited.
So why is the United States such a difficult partner when it comes to these kinds of collaborations? One reason, notes Cole Donovan, is concern about sensitive technology: “The US government tends to use punitive hammers (like export controls and sanctions) and employs few constructive nails (like partnership programs) from which to build meaningful alliances.”
The result of these and other obstacles is that the United States is becoming isolated just as other countries—allies and rivals alike—are partnering on important science and technology efforts. “The United States will need to undertake substantial efforts to restore its status as a preferred and reliable international partner,” Donovan writes, “and to build tangible—instead of punitive or aspirational—technology alliances.”