Internationally and domestically, there is a growing interest the effective use of science in decision-making. The International Network for Government Science Advice (INGSA) was established in 2015 and has attracted much interest since then.  Canada has a Chief Science Advisor as of 2017 and the network of departmental science advisors is expanding. 

The basic challenge is this: knowledge is growing exponentially but the uptake of that knowledge by publics and decision-makers does not follow at the same pace. In addition, we must cope with a rise in misinformation especially through social media and from strategic communications. A decline in public trust can be observed in parallel. Finally, the integration of all forms of knowledge, including indigenous traditional knowledge is an important but complex goal.

This Research and Engagement Cluster of the ISSP will address current, important and practical issues in a wide array of contexts including parliamentary science advice, departmental science advice, and regulatory contexts. The research and contributions will help bridging the policy–science interfaces and improve the use of all sources of knowledge.