INSIGHTS – Communicating Economics: Bridging Research, Policy, and Society

INSIGHTS was a four-year transfer project at the Berlin School of Economics (BSoE) that strengthened the dialogue between economic research, policymakers, the media, and the public. Jointly led by the WZB and DIW Berlin, and funded by the Leibniz Association, the project built a lasting bridge connecting social science and society.

Objectives and Significance

INSIGHTS recognized the importance of communicating research results not only broadly but also clearly, transparently, and tailored to specific audiences. Prof. Dr. Dorothea Kübler (WZB/TU Berlin) emphasizes: “Successful science communication requires clear, timely messages based on solid research — while openly addressing uncertainties and limitations.” Prof. Dr. Peter Haan (DIW Berlin/FU Berlin) adds: “Our mission is to train junior researchers in Berlin in knowledge transfer and to embed these skills permanently in the curriculum.”

Focus Areas and Activities

The project was based on two pillars: fostering exchange between academia, politics, media, and the public, and providing professional training in science communication for early-career researchers. Key activities were:

• Events: Workshops, conferences, and the annual INSIGHTS Summit as a cross-sectoral forum for discussing relevant economic policy topics.
   
• Support for Junior Researchers: Assistance in presenting at policy-focused conferences, media training, and writing coaching.
   
• INSIGHTS Pieces: A dedicated platform for policy briefs authored by BSoE researchers, serving as a central information hub.
   
• Practical Experience: Financial support for internships with media outlets and communication institutions for PhD candidates and postdocs.
   
• Policy Fellowships: Exchange programs enabling close collaboration between policymakers and researchers.
   
• Joint Research Projects: Co-creation initiatives tackling policy questions through collaboration between scientists and political actors.
   
• Ongoing Communication: Establishment and maintenance of a durable infrastructure for dialogue between science, politics, and society, including interviews and podcasts.

 

Sustainability and Outlook

With the conclusion of the INSIGHTS project, its most effective measures and training formats have been permanently integrated into the Berlin School of Economics.

The INSIGHTS Summit on June 18, 2024, marked the grand finale — an engaging event with interactive panels, short presentations, and a live podcast that highlighted the vital role of well-communicated economic research in public debate, policymaking, and building trust in science.