Bridging the gap: Connecting social research with the public and policymakers

Bridging the gap: connecting social research with the public and policymakers Ruxandra Comănaru ESS David Consolazio EVS Yuliya Kazakova GGP Funded by the European Union Knowledge producers: Scientists Knowledge users: General public and policy makers a common language: research findings are understandable, relevant, meaningful to a wider audience Introducing the Gap Outline Why the gap matters Barriers to accessibility Practical strategies Case illustrations Q&A Knowledge producers: Scientists Knowledge users: General public and policy makers NextGenerationEU recovery plan Key social science RIs in Europe: European Social Survey Generations & Gender Programme European Values Study ISSP, EQLS, Eurobarometer customIsed infrastructure for Data-driven policies Who we are Policymakers make decisions without evidence The public relies on misinformation or simplified narratives Opportunities for collaboration and innovation are lost When research stays hidden: Why the Gap Matters knowledge exists, but influence doesn’t Increased relevance and impact Greater public understanding and trust in science Better-informed policies rooted in data Researchers gain visibility, relevance, and the satisfaction of seeing their work create change Real-world change: improved programs, new social initiatives, and more equitable solutions The benefits of bridging the gap Barriers to accessibility Jargon and complexity Format and access Limited reach Mistrust and disconnect translation of language translation of purpose Translate findings into human-centered narratives Use stories of people, places, and impact to make data memorable Practical Strategies: Storytelling 30% of residents reported food insecurity. 1 in 3 families in our city went to bed hungry last week, despite working full-time jobs. Data visualization simplifies complexity Share short, clear visuals on social media, reports, etc. Lead with one key takeaway per graphic Tools like Canva, Flourish, or Datawrapper Practical Strategies: Infographics and visuals Case study: Influencing the policy debate on free school meal provision in the UK Case study: Influencing the policy debate on free school meal provision in the UK Case study: Influencing the policy debate on free school meal provision in the UK The Conversation: turn knowledge and insights into easy-toread articles The Research Impact Handbook by Mark Reed Policy Brief Toolkits Tools for design and outreach: Canva, Datawrapper, and Open Access repositories like Zenodo Resources When we translate research into stories, visuals, and collaborations, we build bridges between knowledge and action, between data and people, between evidence and empathy. Final thoughts Thank you! Your Questions & Reflections kazakov[email protected] [email protected]