One goal of the European Research Area (ERA) is the valorisation of knowledge, i.e. the better use of scientific findings in society. The participation of citizens in science is seen as a cornerstone of this endeavour.
A recently published evaluation of 60 participatory projects in 37 countries analyses the benefits for knowledge valorisation and identifies existing gaps. The publication "Fostering knowledge valorisation through citizen engagement" is available online.
On 1 March 2024, the European Commission also adopted the Code of Practice for Citizen Participation in Knowledge Valorisation. This contains guidance for researchers to achieve better use of research results and how to forster citizen participation in science to the same end. The document especially emphasizes the importance of the role of intermediaries and the use of co-creation tools and digital solutions.