Faßmann, Heinz (2026) Science for Policy in Austria - A Survey of Expert Councils and Their Areas of Responsibility. fteval Journal for Research and Technology Policy Evaluation (58). pp. 125-147. ISSN 1726-6629
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Abstract (english)
This article examines the role of “science for policy” in Austria and provides a systematic mapping of institutionalised, science-based expert councils with a legal basis. It starts from the observation that, although evidence-based policymaking has become a guiding principle, the practical organisation of scientific policy advice remains fragmented. Rather than relying on large think tanks, the Austrian system is characterised by a plurality of advisory bodies, research institutions, and individual actors. Based on a systematic screening of federal ministry websites, 62 advisory bodies were identified and assessed in terms of their legal foundation and scientific orientation. The intersection of these criteria results in 12 permanent expert councils with a clear scientific basis. The findings reveal a concentration of such councils in policy areas characterised by high complexity, such as economic, health, and integration policy. They also indicate that scientific advice is particularly in demand in contexts marked by uncertainty and information asymmetries. The article concludes by identifying key conditions for effective science for policy in Austria: institutional autonomy combined with a clearly defined mandate, trust-based interaction with policymakers, adequate resources, and targeted capacity-building for advisory roles. In doing so, the article combines an empirical mapping with conceptual reflections on strengthening evidence-informed policymaking.
| Subjects: | Policy, Fields & Systems Evaluation R&D in Austria |
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| Divisions: | Österreichische Akademie der Wissenschaften |
| Identification Number: | 10.22163/fteval.2026.732 |
| Date Deposited: | 30 Jan 2026 10:38 |
| URI: | https://repository.fteval.at/id/eprint/805 |
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