Supporting global parliamentary research network
The Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (POST) have launched a new interactive map that highlights the variety of ways that parliaments around the world access academic research. The launch was in collaboration with Loughborough University and the University of St Andrews.
As part of a joint Parliamentary Academic Fellowship to broaden its knowledge about how other parliaments engage with academic research, POST commissioned research from University of St Andrews School of Management Reader Dr Vicky Ward and Loughborough University's Dr Mark Monaghan. Although POST connects with other parliamentary research services through the European Parliamentary Technology Assessment Network (EPTA) and other international relationships, connections with parliamentary research services elsewhere in the world were limited. Dr Ward and Dr Monaghan drew on their expertise in knowledge exchange and evidence-based policy to conduct this research.
Building global connections
The new map illustrates the variety and breadth of engagement with academic research in parliaments across the world, expanding current understanding of this activity and providing an opportunity for connections across parliaments.
The map highlights 73 research engagement services, each of which has provided, compiled, or produced academic research for parliamentary purposes within the past 5 years. Some of these, like the House of Commons Library, provide research for parliamentarians on request. Others provide direct links to the academic community, or produce peer-reviewed evidence briefings, reports and research reviews.
Dr Ward and Dr Monaghan said: "Research evidence has an important role to play in the work of parliaments as they scrutinise, debate, and pass legislation. Our work hopes to shine a welcome spotlight on this less well-known area of parliamentary work, whilst also identifying opportunities for knowledge exchange and international connections."
Adam Afriyie MP, Chair of the POST Board, said: "Having access to accurate and impartial research evidence is vital for MPs, and a core element of effective parliamentary democracy. Meeting that need has always been at the heart of POST's work. The map, which our fellows have produced, shows how this approach is shared globally and presents the opportunity for further collaboration with organisations across the world."