Supporting academics and policymakers in sharing evidence-based research and ideas on the major social, cultural and economic challenges facing society regionally, nationally and beyond. Our over-arching vision is to share the University’s independent expertise with policymakers so they can make informed decisions about the most effective and sustainable ways to tackle these challenges, now and in the future.


The 2017 Eaton Lecture delivered by Professor Meric Gertler, President of the University of Toronto is now available to view online.

Dr Drew Mikhael and Dr Julie Norman highlight the rise of youth radicalization globally and look at the processes behind this sinister recruitment practice.

Professor Crawford Gribben looks back over recent events in Northern Ireland and asks why, after almost 20 years of “peace”, have we achieved so little with so much?

Professor John Barry reflects on the recent flooding in Northern Ireland and calls for more coordination and leadership in preparing and planning for climate-created flood events.

Professor John Garry shares some initial thoughts on the recent UK position papers as part of the Brexit negotiations.

Professor Colin Harvey talks constitutionalism and the idea of Irish unity referendums in light of the ongoing Brexit negotiations.

Despite recent changes to the way GCSEs are assessed, students themselves have been left out of the debate says Professor Jannette Elwood and Dr Rhian Barrance from Cardiff University.

Following the UK government’s release of its position paper on the position of Northern Ireland and Ireland after Brexit, Professor Dagmar Schiek shares her initial thoughts on the paper and highlights what is not being addressed.

Professor John Barry looks back at the 2007 financial crash.