Roundtable: Advancing Evidence-Based Political Parties: Legal and Comparative Insights on Research and Analytical Centers

As part of the Swiss Electoral Support Programme, we held a roundtable discussion focused on the role and development of research and analysis units within political parties. Findings from an in-depth study on such units in North Macedonia were presented, and in addition, we shared experiences from Finland regarding how these units can contribute to more effective research, policy development, and decision-making based on evidence and relevant information. A particularly important part of the discussion involved representatives from political parties, institutions, experts, and other relevant stakeholders, who addressed the opportunities and challenges associated with further strengthening these capacities. We extend our gratitude to all participants for the open and constructive discussion.