21 July 2026
Adriana Mutu delivered the seminar “From Research to Impact: Becoming an Expert and Influencing Policy” as part of the European Union-funded project “Support to Media Reform in Lebanon to Enhance Freedom of Expression.”
The seminar examined how academic research can be translated into policy expertise and, ultimately, into practical policy impact. It addressed strategies for building credibility, engaging with policymakers and institutions, communicating evidence effectively, and navigating the opportunities and challenges involved in influencing public policy.
Adriana illustrated the discussion through two examples from her professional experience: her work with a research group at the Autonomous University of Barcelona and Spain’s Independent Authority for Fiscal Responsibility (AIReF), and her role as an external expert in the EU Twinning project supporting media reform in Ukraine.
Supporting media reform in Lebanon
The seminar forms part of MJRC’s broader work under the project “Support to Media Reform in Lebanon to Enhance Freedom of Expression,” implemented together with Lebanese civil society organisations Maharat and Legal Agenda and funded through the EU’s Global Europe: Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI).
The project’s second phase, launched in January 2026, runs until 2027 and focuses on strengthening freedom of expression, media freedom and information integrity in Lebanon. Its activities include support for media policy reform, research, advocacy, multi-stakeholder engagement and rule-of-law mechanisms.