Map launched to pinpoint how parliaments access research

Post produces impartial, peer-reviewed briefings in the areas of biology and health, energy and environment, physical sciences and computing, and social sciences, with the aim of making scientific research accessible to the UK parliament.

The body commissioned research from Vicky Ward at the University of St Andrews and Loughborough University’s Mark Monaghan as part of a joint parliamentary academic fellowship to better understand how other parliaments use academic research.

The resulting map, hosted by the International Parliamentary Engagement Network, illustrates how parliamentarians engage with research globally.

It highlights 73 research services around the world, each of which have compiled, provided or produces academic research for parliamentary purposes during the past five years. 

Adam Afriyie MP, chair of the Post board, said: “Having access to accurate and impartial research evidence is vital for MPs, and a core element of effective parliamentary democracy. The map, which our fellows have produced, shows how this approach is shared globally and presents the opportunity for further collaboration with organisations across the world.”