Tools for evidence-informed policy making

What is Evidence-Informed Policy? When we talk about research policy we are usually talking about one of two things:

1. Research informed policy: This is where results from research are taken into account during the policy formulation process. For example, research which shows the most effective way to distribute bednets could inform the government's anti-malaria strategy.
2. Policy for research: These are the policies which determine how research is done and can cover the areas of ethics or science funding etc. Examples of this kind of policy would be policy that regulates government spending on research; or policies governing the proper way to get informed-consent. 

As you can see, research informed policies and policies for research are two very different things. Understanding which of these areas you are trying to influence is crucial when choosing the right strategy. We work with partners to achieve the first point, feeding research into the policy making process.

This booklet provides examples of activities and programmes that can help you develop strategies to promote evidence informed policy making. These are by no means exhaustive but hopefully can begin to give you an insight into the various options available in this area.