Bridging the science-policy gap in a transition-country setting: enablers and barriers

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Micha Werner ◽  
Nora van Cauwenbergh ◽  
Tibor Stigter ◽  
Leonardo Alfonso Segura ◽  
Teresita Betancur Vargas ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Policy Implementation ◽  
Science Policy ◽  
Scientific Knowledge ◽  
Policy Development ◽  
Groundwater Resources ◽  
Implementation Process ◽  
Science And Policy ◽  
Research Activities ◽  
Science Policy Interface ◽  
Scientific Results

<p>Despite a significant increase in attention for uptake of scientific results, the integration of emerging science in policy development and implementation remains challenging. The persistent gap between science and policy may frustrate the parties involved. For the scientists, the intended impacts of what are typically very much applied research efforts remain unattained. Those involved in policy implementation and development may perceive a lack of scientific support. This may particularly be the case in transitional countries, where the development of science may struggle to keep up with rapid societal and policy development; with several factors either impeding or facilitating the uptake of emergent scientific knowledge.</p><p>We implemented a series of participatory and action research activities to support the development and implementation of groundwater management policies in Colombia and explore barriers and enabling conditions to a functional science-policy interface. The factors that either impede or facilitate the process are examined through three case studies in different regions of the country. Although the national policies that govern groundwater resources management in these three areas are the same; the degree to which scientific knowledge is used to support policy implementation varies. Several factors are identified that influence the effectivity of the linkage, including among others; the availability of scientific knowledge; the establishing of trust relationships and positioning of institutions and stakeholders; as well as institutional readiness in supporting the policy implementation process. This comparison provides useful insight into how addressing some of the impeding factors may enrich the science-policy process.</p>

scholarly journals Country Representatives’ Perceptions of the Biodiversity Science-Policy Interface

Conservation ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 1 (2) ◽  
pp. 73-81
Author(s):  
André Derek Mader ◽  
Brian Alan Johnson ◽  
Yuki Ohashi ◽  
Isabella Fenstermaker
Keyword(s):  
Science Policy ◽  
Biological Diversity ◽  
Convention On Biological Diversity ◽  
Science And Policy ◽  
Biodiversity Knowledge ◽  
Biodiversity Science ◽  
Science Policy Interface ◽  
Adequate Quality ◽  
The Subject

Biodiversity knowledge is communicated by scientists to policymakers at the biodiversity “science-policy interface” (SPI). Although the biodiversity SPI is the subject of a growing body of literature, gaps in our understanding include the efficacy of mechanisms to bridge the interface, the quality of information exchanged between science and policy, and the inclusivity of stakeholders involved. To improve this understanding, we surveyed an important but under-studied group—biodiversity policymakers and scientific advisors representing their respective countries in negotiations of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES). We found that a wide variety of SPI mechanisms were being used. Overall, they were considered to be sufficiently effective, improving over time, and supplied with information of adequate quality. Most respondents, however, agreed that key actors were still missing from the biodiversity SPI.

scholarly journals A qualitative exploration of pharmacovigilance policy implementation in Jordan, Oman, and Kuwait using Matland’s ambiguity-conflict model

2021 ◽  
Vol 17 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Hamza Y. Garashi ◽  
Douglas T. Steinke ◽  
Ellen I. Schafheutle
Keyword(s):  
Policy Implementation ◽  
Policy Development ◽  
Stakeholder Involvement ◽  
Implementation Process ◽  
Arab Countries ◽  
Decision Makers ◽  
Pharmacovigilance System ◽  
Policy Conflict ◽  
Policy Goals ◽  
Conflict Model

Abstract Background As Arab countries seek to implement the ‘Guideline on Good Pharmacovigilance Practice (GVP) for Arab countries’, understanding policy implementation mechanisms and the factors impacting it can inform best implementation practice. This study aimed to explore the mechanisms of and factors influencing pharmacovigilance policy implementation in Arab countries with more established pharmacovigilance systems (Jordan, Oman), to inform policy implementation in a country with a nascent pharmacovigilance system (Kuwait). Results Matland’s ambiguity-conflict model served to frame data analysis from 56 face-to-face interviews, which showed that policy ambiguity and conflict were low in Jordan and Oman, suggesting an “administrative implementation” pathway. In Kuwait, policy ambiguity was high while sentiments about policy conflict were varied, suggesting a mixture between “experimental implementation” and “symbolic implementation”. Factors reducing policy ambiguity in Jordan and Oman included: decision-makers’ guidance to implementors, stakeholder involvement in the policy’s development and implementation, training of policy implementors throughout the implementation process, clearly outlined policy goals and means, and presence of a strategic implementation plan with appropriate timelines as well as a monitoring mechanism. In contrast, policy ambiguity in Kuwait stemmed from the absence or lack of attention to these factors. Factors reducing policy conflict included: the policy’s compliance with internationally recognised standards and the policy’s fit with local capabilities (all three countries), decision-makers’ cooperation with and support of the national centre as well as stakeholders’ agreement on policy goals and means (Jordan and Oman) and adopting a stepwise approach to implementation (Jordan). Conclusions Using Matland’s model, both the mechanism of and factors impacting successful pharmacovigilance policy implementation were identified. This informed recommendations for best implementation practice in Arab as well as other countries with nascent pharmacovigilance systems, including increased managerial engagement and support, greater stakeholder involvement in policy development and implementation, and undertaking more detailed implementation planning.

scholarly journals A qualitative exploration of pharmacovigilance policy implementation in Jordan, Oman, and Kuwait using Matland's ambiguity-conflict model

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hamza Y. Garashi ◽  
Douglas T. Steinke ◽  
Ellen I. Schafheutle
Keyword(s):  
Policy Implementation ◽  
Policy Development ◽  
Stakeholder Involvement ◽  
Implementation Process ◽  
Arab Countries ◽  
Decision Makers ◽  
Pharmacovigilance System ◽  
Policy Conflict ◽  
Policy Goals ◽  
Conflict Model

Abstract Background As Arab countries seek to implement the 'Guideline on Good Pharmacovigilance Practice (GVP) for Arab countries', understanding policy implementation mechanisms and the factors impacting it can inform best implementation practice. This study aimed to explore the mechanisms of and factors influencing pharmacovigilance policy implementation in Arab countries with more established pharmacovigilance systems (Jordan, Oman), to inform policy implementation in a country with a nascent pharmacovigilance system (Kuwait). Results Matland's ambiguity-conflict model served to frame data analysis from 55 face-to-face interviews which showed that policy ambiguity and conflict were low in Jordan and Oman suggesting an "administrative implementation" pathway. In Kuwait, policy ambiguity was high while sentiments about policy conflict were varied suggesting a mixture between "experimental implementation" and “political implementation”. Factors reducing policy ambiguity in Jordan and Oman included: decision-makers' guidance to implementors, stakeholder involvement in the policy's development and implementation, training of policy implementors throughout the implementation process, clearly outlined policy goals and means, and presence of a strategic implementation plan with appropriate timelines as well as a monitoring mechanism. In contrast, policy ambiguity in Kuwait stemmed from the absence or lack of attention to these factors. Factors reducing policy conflict included: the policy's compliance with internationally recognised standards and the policy's fit with local capabilities (all three countries), decision-makers' cooperation with and support of the national centre as well as stakeholders' agreement on policy goals and means (Jordan and Oman), and adopting a stepwise approach to implementation (Jordan). Conclusion Using Matland’s model, both the mechanism of and factors impacting successful pharmacovigilance policy implementation were identified. This informed recommendations for best implementation practice in Arab as well as other countries with nascent pharmacovigilance systems including increased managerial engagement and support, greater stakeholder involvement in policy development and implementation, and undertaking more detailed implementation planning.

scholarly journals Structuring policy problems for plastics, the environment and human health: reflections from the UK

2009 ◽  
Vol 364 (1526) ◽  
pp. 2141-2151 ◽  
Author(s):  
Louise Shaxson
Keyword(s):  
Human Health ◽  
Science Policy ◽  
Supply And Demand ◽  
Policy Issue ◽  
Simple Problem ◽  
Problem Structuring ◽  
Science And Policy ◽  
Science Policy Interface ◽  
The Uk ◽  
Policy Problems

How can we strengthen the science–policy interface for plastics, the environment and human health? In a complex policy area with multiple stakeholders, it is important to clarify the nature of the particular plastics-related issue before trying to understand how to reconcile the supply and demand for evidence in policy. This article proposes a simple problem typology to assess the fundamental characteristics of a policy issue and thus identify appropriate processes for science–policy interactions. This is illustrated with two case studies from one UK Government Department, showing how policy and science meet over the environmental problems of plastics waste in the marine environment and on land. A problem-structuring methodology helps us understand why some policy issues can be addressed through relatively linear flows of science from experts to policymakers but why others demand a more reflexive approach to brokering the knowledge between science and policy. Suggestions are given at the end of the article for practical actions that can be taken on both sides.

scholarly journals Ten principles for achieving scientific impact with integrity in policy and management

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ross Thompson ◽  
Emily Barbour ◽  
Corey Bradshaw ◽  
Sue Briggs ◽  
Neil Byron ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Science Policy ◽  
Policy Development ◽  
Scientific Information ◽  
River System ◽  
Environmental Water ◽  
Scientific Integrity ◽  
Extensive Literature ◽  
Policy Makers ◽  
Science And Policy ◽  
Modes Of Engagement

In the face of mounting environmental problems, it is essential that accurate and timely scientific information is available to inform policy development and guide management. Scientists have specialised knowledge necessary for evidenced-based decision making, but despite extensive literature on the interface between science and policy, there is little guidance on achieving policy relevance while maintaining high standards of scientific integrity. Here, we provide a set of principles for environmental scientists to engage with policy makers and environmental water managers. We propose the adoption of a contemporary pluralistic approach using a diversity of modes of engagement between scientists, policy makers, and managers. We define a set of ‘roles’ for environmental scientists to engage effectively with policy and management, and discuss the advantages and pitfalls of each. We illustrate the breadth of modes of engagement at the science-policy-management interface using an example from Australia’s largest river system, the Murray-Darling Basin. We challenge the anachronistic, yet persistent concept that engaging with industry or government compromises the objectivity of involved scientists. We argue that there are multiple assurance processes in place to protect scientific integrity. Society needs scientists to be actively involved in finding solutions to the many urgent environmental issues we are facing, and if our principles are followed there are opportunities for healthy interaction between science, policy, and management.

scholarly journals Brokerage at the science–policy interface: from conceptual framework to practical guidance

2021 ◽  
Vol 8 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Peter D. Gluckman ◽  
Anne Bardsley ◽  
Matthias Kaiser
Keyword(s):  
Conceptual Framework ◽  
Science Policy ◽  
Policy Development ◽  
Information Needs ◽  
Boundary Function ◽  
Political Community ◽  
Knowledge Brokerage ◽  
Policy Dynamics ◽  
Science Policy Interface ◽  
Science Community

AbstractThis article analyses the conceptual framework of brokerage at the science–policy interface as an important boundary function to support trusted and transparent government decision-making. Policymaking involves a broad range of considerations, but science advice and evidence is critical to help inform decisions. However, mechanisms for requesting and receiving advice from the scientific community are not straightforward, considering that the knowledge needed generally spans multiple disciplines of the natural and social sciences. Once evidence has been appropriately synthesized, there remains the need to ensure an effective and unbiased translation to the policy and political community. The concept of knowledge brokerage revolves around an understanding of the ontologies, cultures and languages of both the policy community and the science community, in order to effectively link the two bidirectionally. In practical terms, this means ensuring that the information needs of the former are understood, and that the type and form of information offered by the latter aligns with those needs. Ideally, knowledge brokers act at the interface between researchers/experts and decision-makers to present evidence in a way that informs policy options but does not determine policy development. Conceptually, negotiating this interface involves acknowledging that values are embedded in the scientific process and evidentiary synthesis, and in particular, in considering the inferential risks inherent in making evidence claims. Brokers are faced with navigating complex policy dynamics and balancing information asymmetries between research providers and users. Building on the conceptual analysis and examination of the nuances of brokerage observed in practice, we propose a set of guidelines to translate the concepts of brokerage to practical application.

Water policy at science–policy interface – challenges and opportunities for India

Water Policy ◽  
2015 ◽  
Vol 18 (2) ◽  
pp. 288-303 ◽  
Author(s):  
Suparana Katyaini ◽  
Anamika Barua
Keyword(s):  
Science Policy ◽  
Emerging Economies ◽  
Scientific Knowledge ◽  
Water Scarcity ◽  
Tamil Nadu ◽  
Policy Action ◽  
North West ◽  
Water Policies ◽  
Challenges And Opportunities ◽  
Science Policy Interface

Water scarcity is a serious concern in emerging economies, as it impacts human development, livelihoods, environment and economic growth. Policies should be formulated in a way that reflects the problem of water scarcity and is oriented towards providing solutions. The science–policy interface can play a key role in translating scientific knowledge into policy action and in mitigating water scarcity of emerging economies like that of India. Hence, the paper aims to review scientific knowledge on water scarcity in India, and analyze the extent to which this knowledge is reflected in the water policies – to understand the science–policy interface. This has been done by extensive review of various scientific approaches used to assess water scarcity at the national and state level. The analysis indicates that Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan and Gujarat in the north-west, and Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu in the south experience high water scarcity. To analyze whether this scientific knowledge has been translated into policy, existing water policies were critically reviewed. The paper, by identifying key policy areas, discusses challenges and opportunities for strengthening the science–policy interface, in the context of water scarcity mitigation. The paper argues that translating scientific knowledge into policy action continues to be a major challenge in India.

Conceptualizing Numbers at the Science–Policy Interface

2018 ◽  
Vol 43 (6) ◽  
pp. 1039-1065 ◽  
Author(s):  
Zora Kovacic
Keyword(s):  
Ecosystem Services ◽  
Science Policy ◽  
Quantitative Information ◽  
Science And Policy ◽  
Policy Alternative ◽  
Alternative Facts ◽  
Science Policy Interface ◽  
Interface Science ◽  
Valuation Of Ecosystem Services ◽  
Pedigree Approach

Quantitative information is one of the means used to interface science with policy. As a consequence, much effort is invested in producing quantitative information for policy and much criticism is directed toward the use of numbers in policy. In this paper, I analyze five approaches drawn from such criticisms and propose alternative uses of quantitative information for governance: (i) valuation of ecosystem services, (ii) social multicriteria evaluation, (iii) quantification of uncertainty through the Numeral, Unit, Spread, Assessment, Pedigree approach, (iv) Quantitative Story-Telling, and (v) the heuristic use of statistics. The analysis shows the varied ways that numbers are conceptualized and how different conceptualizations matter for the science–policy interface. Alternative conceptualizations of numbers are used to challenge the model of science-speaking truth to power. Uncertainty, complexity, pluralism, malpractice, and values are mobilized to redefine the relations between science and policy. Alternative quantification may produce alternative facts, but reflexive approaches that use numbers to discuss the relevance of equity, positionality, and quality in science for policy may offer a remedy.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document