en
31. October 2023

Dialogues and events on science and politics Dialogues and events on science and politics

Science-based knowledge is increasingly important to answer the big questions of our times. Scientists provide evidence bases for developing sustainable, effective, and efficient solutions. Researchers become policy advisors and suddenly find themselves in a world of expert committees, conflicts of interest, and political strategies. At the University of Bonn, there are a number of prominent scientists - such as Prof. Hendrik Streeck - who are active as policy advisors.

But how exactly does the transfer of knowledge between science and politics work? What opportunities and risks does this cooperation entail? At this year's Postdoc Day 2023, policy advice was the key topic and has been discussed from different perspectives. Now, various events will follow to support young as well as established scientists in sharing their knowledge with policymakers.

Grafik Politikberatung
Grafik Politikberatung © enaCom/Natascha Buhl
Download all images in original size The impression in connection with the service is free, while the image specified author is mentioned.

Lecture Series on "Science-Based Policy Advice"

A lecture series on "Science-Based Policy Advice" is offered by the Academic Career Service during winter semester. It covers topics such as stakeholders, visibility and networks in the policy arena. Dates:

  • Relevant Stakeholders and Their Needs: Thursday, November 2, 2023 | 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. | Gain insights into relevant stakeholders and their needs. Who actually asks for policy advice? How do the needs of government, parliament, administration, business associations, civil society differ?
  • Visibility and Networking: Thursday, November 9, 2023 | 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. | Gain insights into visibility and networking as entry points. How do I position myself as an expert in the political arena? How do I avoid ethical risks when advising politicians as a scientist?
  • In-person Workshop | Between Evidence and Opinion: Challenges and Perspectives of Science-Based Policy Advice: Friday, November 24, 2023 | 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. | Get an overview of important aspects of scientific policy advice and benefit from practical exercises on concrete counseling situations with different stakeholders.

Panel discussion on the role of science in UN decision-making processes

“Debating the role of science in UN policy processes" is the title of a panel discussion that will take place on November 15th from 4 to 6 p.m. Researchers who are actively involved in policy advise with the UN knowing the insights of UN policy processes and conventions, will discuss their experiences.

  • Jun.-Prof. Dr. Lisa Biber-Freudenberger, Center for Development Research (ZEF) at the University of Bonn
  • Prof. Dr. Nikolaus Froitzheim, Agricultural Faculty, University of Bonn
  • Dr. Isimemen OSEMWEGIE, Assistant Programme Coordinator, CABES Senior Researcher, Center for Development Research (ZEF), University of Bonn, Germany
  • Prof. Dr. Lisa Schipper, Geographical Institute of the University of Bonn GUIB
  • Prof. Dr. Zita Sebesvari, Deputy Director of the UNU Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNU-EHS) & Professor at the University of Bonn
  • Sara Velander, Junior Researcher at the Center for Development Research (ZEF), University of Bonn (moderation)

The hybrid event takes place at the Center for Development Research (ZEF); participation is also possible virtually.

Policy advice considered from the very beginning

"Scientific advice to political decision-makers has a long tradition at the special location of Bonn," says Sandra Speer (Head of the Transfer Center enaCom): "We would especially like to encourage young post-docs and scientists to think about a possible contribution to society from the very beginning of their research work." Several institutes are particularly active in this area, including the Center for Development Research (ZEF), the Center for Advanced Security, Strategic and Integration Studies (CASSIS), and the Bonn Academy for Practical Policy Research and Teaching (BAPP).