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.


In the run-up to the 60th anniversary of the signing of the Treaties of Rome, Professor David Phinnemore looks at what the future holds for the UK’s relationship with Europe.

One year on from the closure of the consultation on the proposed new culture and arts strategy for Northern Ireland, Dr Steven Hadley asks why are we are no closer to having one?

In the event of a hard Brexit, Professor Dagmar Schiek looks at some of the areas where the withdrawal of the UK from the EU will impact on life on the island of Ireland.

Professor Beverley Milton-Edwards looks at the current situation in Jordan and highlights that a growing movement of homegrown and widespread protest has shaken the certainties of loyalty that King Abdullah II could once rely on.

The triggering of Article 50 by PM Theresa May is imminent, but what will happen over the next two-years? Professor David Phinnemore outlines the projected timetable for negotiations and the main issues that will be up for discussion.

Dr Katy Hayward looks at the growing interest into all things border-related and asks why have borders become the latest political obsession?

Guest contributor Carlo J.V. Caro looks at the plight of Christians in Syria and asks whether Christian refugees should be treated differently.

With Brexit looming, Professor Chris Elliott looks at the UK’s discussions with the US about a trade deal and asks what impact will this have on the food that we eat?

The Northern Ireland Assembly election on 2 March is likely to be followed by a difficult political negotiation. Alan Whysall from UCL’s Constitution Unit argues that it must not be a mere political sticking plaster and that people in Northern Ireland outside politics need to get involved in setting the agenda.