EU agencies highlight the role of research in effective policy-making

The European Union Agencies Network on Scientific Advice (EU‑ANSA) has reaffirmed the central role of EU agencies in supporting research and translating scientific knowledge into evidence‑based policy‑making, through a joint statement signed by Chief Scientists or highest‑ranking scientific officers from across the network, including EFSA.

Drawing on experience from recent crises such as COVID‑19, EU‑ANSA highlights how EU agencies contribute across the research knowledge cycle – from identifying policy‑relevant knowledge gaps and helping shape research priorities, to supporting the uptake of research results in regulatory science and policy implementation.

The network underlines the importance of inter‑ and transdisciplinary research, including within the One Health framework, to address complex and interconnected challenges such as climate change, emerging health threats and geopolitical pressures.

EU‑ANSA welcomes the proposed Horizon Europe 2028–2034 programme and calls for the proactive involvement of EU agencies in future research programming, recognising their collective expertise, scientific networks and role in strengthening trust in science and public decision‑making.