Science meets Parliaments / Science meets Regions: Advancing evidence for policy across Europe

Abstract

The Pilot Project “Science meets Parliament/ Science meets Regions” (2018-2020) was endorsed by the European Parliament and implemented by the JRC, in close consultation with the Committee of the Regions. It aimed to spread a culture of evidence-informed policymaking (EIPM) throughout the EU, giving full ownership to the Member States, regions and cities involved, and focusing on policy topics of concern to the organising entities. Moreover, studies were financed to support the processes set in motion by the events, and training courses on EIPM for policymakers were provided. This report provides an overview of the main activities implemented as well as the lessons learnt and the results of the evaluation exercise. The evaluation mainly involved a qualitative analysis based on a number of sources as well as the online workshops during which the key dimensions of the pilot were addressed and discussed in detail with a view to the possible development of a follow up initiative. “Scientific evidence is essential and in high demand by the public and policymakers and it can contribute to building trust among EU citizens. The Pilot Project “Science meets Parliament/ Science meets Regions” represents a unique platform to promote evidence informed policy making bringing together science, policy, current challenges and future thinking.” Stephen Quest, Director General, the European Commission Joint Research Centre.