Bridging research and policy in international development

This article argues that while better use of research-based evidence in development can help to save lives, reduce poverty and improve the quality of life, for this to happen more effectively researchers need to do three things. These include:

• develop a detailed understanding of the policymaking process, the nature of the evidence they have, or hope to get, and all the other stakeholders involved in the policy area
• develop an overall strategy for their work, such as by identifying political supporters and opponents; keep an eyeout for, and be able to react to policy windows; and build coalitions with like-minded groups
• be entrepreneurial by getting to know, and working with the policymakers; build long term programmes of credible research; communicate effectively; use participatory approaches; identify key networkers and salesmen; and use shadow networks

This paper includes a detailed table on how researchers can influence policy and practice, listing what researchers need to know, what they need to do, and how to do it.

The paper also discusses ODI's Research and Policy in Development (RAPID) programme, which aims to improve the use of research and evidence in development policy and practice through research, advice and debate.