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On-line mechanisms for knowledge-based policy advice

 

Specific challenge: In a global perspective Europe can gain from effective knowledge-based decision-making, widening its knowledge base beyond science, not the least with regard to science, technology and innovation (STI) governance itself. This requires a combined effort of a) establishing national capacity for knowledge-based policy advice across Europe, b) establishing common methodological frameworks, and c) increasing the volume and effectiveness of cross-European collaboration in order to create European added value. Initiatives have been taken towards such a development, including Mobilisation and Mutual Learning Action Plans (MML) and research in Responsible Research and Innovation frameworks, methodologies, participation. However, the potential of developing on-line services for such goals is yet unexplored.

Scope:The on-line dimension of knowledge-based decision-making should involve different mechanisms, such as Science 2.0 e-Science approaches and other collaborative functions for policy analysis, forward looking studies, technology assessment, data exchange for research etc.; trans-European collaboration tools focusing on EU level policy advice; work-flow management systems for specific methods; participatory citizen and stakeholder consultation systems; services supporting Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) methods and frameworks, including gender equality; Web-services for the project life-cycle - project definition, method choice, evaluation and management. The proposals shall probe the potential and feasibility of on-line services and develop and demonstrate on-line services that will strengthen European capacity for knowledge-based policy analysis and advice, with special emphasis on Science, technology and Innovation (STI) governance. Emphasis shall be put on a well-documented demand-side, on targeted user-centred solutions, and on usability across languages and among different institutional structures in the advisory domains. Innovation height shall be found in the functions provided, and the use of known and well tested enabling ICT technologies is to be preferred.

The Commission considers that proposals requesting a contribution from the EU of the order of EUR 4 million would allow this specific challenge to be addressed appropriately. Nonetheless, this does not preclude submission and selection of proposals requesting other amounts.

Expected impacts:In the short term, open and wide-spread access of citizens, end-users stakeholders to on-line services providing processes and methods for knowledge-based policy advice, enhancing the innovation process. In the medium term, enduring organisational structures that can maintain the services after the end of the research. In the long term, greater trans-European collaboration on knowledge-based policy advice. Promotion of the objectives of citizen engagement in policy making postulated in the Lisbon Treaty.

Type of action: Research and Innovation Actions.