A trusted relationship between science, business, and policymaking is essential for the proper functioning of our democracies. Science and academia play a necessary role in policymaking, offering evidence-based research to guide the formulation and direction of the rules that govern. We are, however, living in a period of increased distrust in traditional institutions, with the organisations and experts that were once valued and relied upon, now subject to growing skepticism.

In the context of the recent strengthening of transparency rules for those seeking to influence policymaking in Europe and following the public consultation on developing a fit for purpose European innovation ecosystem to boost innovation cohesion, this second session in the Bayer Life Talks will look at the fault lines and opportunities in the relationship between policymakers, business, and the scientific community. It will debate the role of business in funding academic and scientific research and what tools are available to ensure transparency and accountability in the process. What guard rails currently exist to ensure that evidence-based policymaking can thrive?

With the European Union undertaking several initiatives to reinforce the ambition and global competitiveness of its European Research Area, and while the demand for insight and future proof policymaking increases, how is the business community working to ensure that it continues to play a positive role in science and research, and what are the implications for the innovation agenda in Europe?