The Mutual Learning Exercise (MLE) on Bridging the Gap between Science and Policy has concluded. 15 countries addressed challenges in integrating scientific knowledge into policymaking. Through peer exchanges, country visits and four thematic reports, the MLE explored how to strengthen science-for-policy (S4P) ecosystems across Europe.
The final report presents eight recommendations. It highlights the importance of governing science-for-policy (S4P) systems at the ecosystem level to reduce fragmentation, foster institutional collaboration among S4P actors, and strengthen public engagement. Participating countries are encouraged to evaluate not only individual components or inputs, but entire ecosystems; to define system-level goals; and to integrate foresight and anticipatory policymaking into S4P. Other priorities include recognising and rewarding policy engagement, redefining research success metrics, building capacity across all actors in the S4P ecosystem, increasing transparency and accountability, and safeguarding scientific integrity against emerging risks such as the misuse of artificial intelligence.
