De-politicised in Court: The Interaction of Democracy with Innovation Projects

This study explores the interaction of politics and innovation. We discuss how entrepreneurs and innovators face policies, legislation, governmental rules and public opinion when compiling innovation projects. This paper highlights the power of politics in a democracy, emphasising the principle of checks and balances. We also touch upon the concept of deliberative democracy and how it should ideally function. Since the authors argue that excessive politicisation may hinder innovation, they seek to test this theory. The aim is to provide insight for overcoming undesired political influence, thereby helping those working on innovation projects to lower or mitigate risk. This study underlines the need to understand the implications of political leadership on innovation projects and statutory amendments. Further, it discusses the potential impact of political constraints on innovation, emphasising the need for strategies to influence policymakers effectively. The authors not only acknowledge the existence and need for political leadership in a democratic society, but also are interested in understanding the implications of such leadership on innovation. A two-sample case study is conducted with mixed methods research. Literature reviews and interviews are combined with theory in an iterative process to test the following hypothesis: If governments and departments become too politicised this may impede innovation. Results from our two cases vindicate our assumption. This study encompasses the maritime and marine sectors, mainly within ports, transport and logistics.