The Role of Human Capital for National Innovation Capability in EU Countries

Abstract

Innovation is essential for economic growth in developed countries. One of the most important sources of innovation is human capital. In this article, state of human capital in EU countries is investigated in order to show the relationship between human capital and national innovation performance. In the first part, theoretical assumptions of human capital importance for innovation processes are analysed. Secondly, measures of human capital are analysed and a measurement model is presented. This model is applied for investigation of state of human capital in 26 EU countries during 2002–2012. Results showed that quality of human capital is the most important factor for innovation performance. Quality indicators have even higher correlation with innovation in countries with low share of innovative enterprises (enterprises with high-level of new technology acceptance and usage). The aim of research is to analyse the theoretical importance of human capital investment for national innovation capability in EU countries, and to determine human capital aspects that foster innovation performance. Therefore, objectives are as follows: to analyse theoretical assumptions of human capital importance for innovation processes and to present the current state of research; to analyse available human capital measures and create a human capital measurement model; and to analyse state of human capital in EU countries as well as its relationship with national innovation capability.