For scientific research to make a genuine contribution to societal development, it must be capable of informing and influencing policy-making processes. This means that researchers increasingly require not only academic expertise, but also the ability to communicate clearly and purposefully with decision-makers, while understanding the logic and dynamics of how policy is formed.
This approach is promoted by the COST “Science for Policy” (S4P) initiative, in which Latvian researcher Dr Līga Zvejniece, Senior Scientist at the Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis and Vice-Chair of the COST Action SIGMA-1 EUROPE, takes part. One of the key learning platforms within the initiative – the fourth “Science for Policy” workshop – was held in Brussels this June, bringing together representatives from over 30 COST Actions across Europe.
The workshop focused in particular on strengthening researchers’ skills to ensure that scientific results can effectively reach policy-makers and serve as a foundation for well-informed decisions. Participants were introduced to the Competence Framework developed by the Joint Research Centre of the European Commission, designed to help researchers better navigate the policy environment and adapt both the direction of their research and its communication to policy needs.
The programme also highlighted practical examples where COST projects have already had a tangible impact on policy. For the first time, participants heard from representatives of the US National Science Foundation’s AccelNet programme, underscoring the global relevance of this approach.
An important part of the workshop was its interactive session, where participants explored strategies for building effective dialogue with political stakeholders. The key takeaway: collaboration with the policy sphere must begin early and be pursued consistently – not only when decisions are already being made. This is the only way to build mutual trust and ensure lasting impact.
The SIGMA-1 EUROPE network, represented by Dr Zvejniece, brings together researchers from 24 European countries who are jointly studying the Sigma-1 receptor (S1R) – a little-understood but important protein involved in various physiological and pathological processes. The network is led by Dr Tangui Maurice, Senior Researcher at INSERM (France).
The involvement of Latvian scientists in such international initiatives not only advances fundamental science, but also strengthens our collective capacity to develop evidence-based policy that serves the public good.