Seven ways to engage with policy officials
Register as an Expert for the European Commission
The European Commission has a database of external experts to assist in the evaluation of grant applications, projects and tenders, and to provide opinions and advice in specific cases. You can find more information about working as an expert here and a list of currently open calls for expertise here. Potential experts are asked to apply via the Participant Portal where they must create an account, state their personal details, areas of expertise, and professional experience.
Complete a European Commission consultation questionnaire
Commission consultations are generally the beginning of the European Union’s legislation process and allow all interested stakeholders to provide expertise or submit their opinion on a particular topic or policy process via an online questionnaire. The information collected through the questionnaire is then analysed and feeds into the decision-making process. Consultations span a large range of issues, are available in most EU languages and are generally open for a 3-month period.
Complete a European Commission roadmap questionnaire
Commission roadmaps set out ideas for new laws and policies, or for evaluations of existing ones. Researchers and external stakeholders can provide feedback on these assessments which will then be considered and presented to the European Parliament and Council (feeding into the legislative debate). Written statements made through this process are also displayed on the European Commission’s website for others to view although they can be displayed anonymously.
Attend a European Parliamentary hearing
Hearings are held by the different Parliamentary committees. They allow experts from different backgrounds to provide feedback and advice while also gaining an understanding of the issue from a political perspective. You will find information about committee hearings, various programmes and previous speaker contributions here.
Attend a science for policy event
There are many opportunities for scientists to learn more about science policy by attending events that focus on science within a wider context. The EGU regularly updates a list of upcoming events which focus on science within a policy context. If you’re involved in a policy-related event, you can also share it with the EGU committee by submitting it through the external policy events form.
Science for policy internships
Early career scientists considering a career in policy can apply for a science policy internship. The EGU has tried to assemble a list of globally available science policy internships (PDF document, 118.0 KB). The individual countries listed do not reflect the required nationalities for applications, but the country in which the internship is based. Please note this is an incomplete list. If you know of any other science policy internship that is missing, please email policy@egu.eu.
Stay up to date with science for policy news and initiatives
The EGU’s monthly Science for Policy Newsletter highlights news and opportunities that are relevant to EGU members. You can sign up for this newsletter here.