Role of Science Advisors in Policy Formation

Just read this excellent new paper by Guy Pe'er and colleagues on the role of science and scientists in EU environmental policymaking, focusing on the Nature Restoration Regulation (NRR) and the Sustainable Use Regulation (SUR). As someone active at the science-policy interface of the EU #GreenDeal, it resonates strongly. The paper dissects how misinformation and short-term political pressures derailed the SUR, while sustained scientific engagement helped secure the NRR. It provides a sharp analysis of claims used against these regulations — on food security, yields, jobs, and energy — and contrasts them with robust scientific evidence. What stands out is the authors’ call for scientists to be proactive, credible, and collaborative in the public arena, especially when evidence is distorted or ignored. The open letter by 6,000 scientists in support of the NRR shows that collective scientific voice can matter. This is more than a case study. It’s a reminder that evidence-based policy needs evidence-based politics, and scientists willing to speak up. (Of course, “evidence-based” doesn’t mean all scientists will always agree. But on many issues, like the urgency of biodiversity restoration or the risks of pesticide overuse, there is strong consensus that deserves more serious political attention. At the very least, democratic politics should take better stock of the best available science.) Highly recommended reading for anyone working on sustainability, #foodsystems, or environmental governance. https://lnkd.in/eB_BeYxs

🌍 Bridging Science and Policy: A Vital Endeavour 🌍 Over the past two years, as Chair of the Inter-Parliamentary Union Working Group on Science and Technology I've led the development of a toolbox to aid parliamentarians in leveraging science and technology. Yet, a significant challenge persists: many parliamentarians are unsure who to ask or what to ask regarding scientific advice. Speaking at Geoscience 2024 in Dublin Castle I have pointed out that engaging the public is a fundamental duty for scientists, especially with publicly funded research. Communicating the societal benefits of scientific advancements is essential. Historically, the relationship between science and policymakers has been reactive, waiting for questions rather than proactively offering solutions. This approach is too slow for urgent issues. Building trust in science means translating complex concepts into accessible language. This task is increasingly challenging in our fast-paced world. Many have failed to realise that the policy formulation process in Ireland has evolved, with the Parliament gaining more power through mechanisms like Pre-Legislative Scrutiny and the Lisbon Treaty, which facilitates the input of external evidence. The Houses of the Oireachtas Library & Research Service is another valuable avenue for feeding evidence into the policy process. To identify the areas of science needed by policymakers, the knowledge community should consider the Programme for Government, the legislative programme, as well as party manifestos. The European Commission and foresight tools like GESDA - Geneva Science and Diplomacy Anticipator are also valuable indicators as to what is likely to be on the political agenda over the term of the next Government. The IPU toolbox as recommends that at the start of the parliamentary cycle, parliament could identify and publish a short statement on Areas of Research Interest (ARIs). ARIs would highlight specific policy areas where research evidence is sought. Parliaments should also encourage the Government to cite more research evidence in policy papers and facilitate open consultations. Read more about my contribution here: https://lnkd.in/eKPd5SKS Geoscience Ireland Geological Survey Ireland

🔬 Exploring Scientific Advisory Boards: Navigating Science-Policy Intersections Science for policy in the context of disarmament matters plays a crucial role in providing policymakers with insights into emerging scientific advancements and their implications for security and governance. As we navigate a fast-changing technological world, scientific expertise becomes increasingly relevant. As someone deeply engaged in the workings of the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC), I find myself reflecting on the pivotal role of science in diplomacy. The ongoing development of a science and technology review mechanism within the BWC framework prompts me to delve deeper into how similar mechanisms operate in other contexts. I'm keen to learn from the experiences of others in this space. How do scientific advisory boards operate in your field? What mechanisms have proven effective in bridging the gap between science and policy? If you could share specific examples or case studies, shedding light on successful approaches to integrating scientific insights into policy-making would be greatly appreciated #Biosecurity #GlobalSecurity #SciencePolicy