RECAS Network Launches Academic Policy Lab and Research Repository
On Wednesday, March 26, from Cres’ Moise Palace, the RECAS Network officially launched the Academic Policy Lab, a pioneering initiative aimed at strengthening the connection between academic research and policymaking in Southeast Europe. The event also introduced the beta version of the Research Repository, a vital tool designed to make academic insights more accessible to policymakers, civil society, and the media.
Bridging the Gap Between Research and Policy
The Academic Policy Lab serves as a collaborative space for dialogue and knowledge exchange among researchers, policymakers, and industry experts. Through this initiative, RECAS aims to enhance the role of evidence-based decision-making in public policy across the region. The Lab will focus on strengthening the research-policy link, promoting policy innovation, and fostering public debate on key social issues.
Key Highlights from the Launch Event
The event featured distinguished speakers who outlined the vision and objectives of the initiative:
- Dr. Gazela Pudar Draško (IFDT) introduced the RECAS Network and its mission of fostering regional academic cooperation.
- Srđan Djurović (IFDT) presented the Academic Policy Lab, emphasizing its role in bridging academia and policymaking. He highlighted the Lab’s function as a hub for capacity building, networking, and knowledge-sharing across the Western Balkans and Southeast Europe.
- Tara Tepavac (IFDT) introduced the Research Repository, explaining how it will function as a centralized hub for academic work relevant to key policy areas, aligned with European and global frameworks (EU Acquis, SDGs). The Repository aims to:
- Improve the visibility and accessibility of academic research.
- Facilitate its practical application in shaping effective policies.
- Bridge the gap between researchers and policymakers in areas such as EU integration, green transition, and digitalization.
A Step Towards Evidence-Based Policymaking
Siniša Marčić (Regional Cooperation Council – RCC) underscored the importance of aligning academic research with policy needs in Southeast Europe. He emphasized that many policymakers in the region lack the tools to develop truly evidence-based policies, and that the Academic Policy Lab and Research Repository could help address this gap. The initiative also complements existing regional strategies, including the Common Regional Market Action Plan, and reinforces the need to ensure research findings translate into tangible policy recommendations.
A Call for Engagement
The launch event reinforced the need for continuous dialogue between academia and policymakers. Participants were encouraged to explore the Research Repository, provide feedback, and contribute to shaping the Academic Policy Lab into a key regional resource. With ongoing support from institutions like the RCC, this initiative is set to become an essential tool for advancing evidence-based policymaking in the Western Balkans.
The Academic Policy Lab will continue to develop capacity-building programs, organize public discussions, and expand its repository with contributions from Network members across the region. It invites policymakers, academics, and civil society actors to collaborate in making research a driving force for evidence-based policymaking.
You can read more about Academic Policy Lab here
You can Access Research Repository here