Introducing the Policy Supporting Programme

Posted on 16.05.2024

VLIRUOS

ARES

Introducing the Policy Supporting Programme: A Catalyst for Targeted Development Impact

In a concerted effort to fortify Belgium’s development cooperation endeavors, VLIRUOS, ARES, and DGD introduce the Policy Supporting Programme (PSP). This collaborative initiative marks a significant stride towards fostering informed decision-making and driving impactful change in targeted thematic areas.

The PSP is not merely a research endeavour; it’s a dynamic partnership aimed at delivering actionable insights tailored to the evolving needs of Belgian development cooperation. At its core, PSP operates on a demand-driven model, ensuring that research output is directly aligned with the priorities set forth by the Belgian government.

Embarking on its journey for the 2023-2027 period, PSP has honed in on three pivotal thematic areas: Climate & Environment, Fragility & Resilience, and Social Protection & Inequality & Inclusive Growth. These areas represent the nexus of pressing global challenges and hold the key to unlocking sustainable development pathways.

The overarching goals of the 2023-2027 Policy Supporting Programme are fourfold, each bearing testament to its commitment to catalysing positive change:

  1. Knowledge Deepening: PSP endeavours to enrich and strengthen the knowledge base surrounding its thematic areas, fostering a deeper understanding of complex developmental issues.
  2. Strategic Decision-Making: By furnishing stakeholders with robust evidence and insights, PSP aims to facilitate more informed and strategic decision-making in the programming and financing of Belgian development cooperation actions.
  3. Policy Dialogue Enhancement: PSP serves as a platform for fostering meaningful policy dialogues and bolstering the strategic positioning of DGD in bilateral and international arenas, amplifying Belgium’s voice on the global stage.
  4. Local Implementation Improvement: PSP is committed to bridging the gap between theory and practice by enhancing the implementation of related concepts, methods, and tools within local contexts, ensuring tangible outcomes that resonate with communities.

Moreover, PSP stands as a beacon of collaboration, offering the academic realm an unparalleled opportunity to merge scientific excellence with social relevance. Through research activities with tangible societal impacts, PSP fosters a culture of engagement and cooperation, forging connections with diverse stakeholders across the development landscape.

As we embark on this transformative journey, PSP beckons researchers, policymakers, and practitioners alike to join forces in tackling some of the most pressing challenges of today and tomorrow. Together, we have the power to catalyse meaningful change and pave the way for a more equitable and sustainable future.