Final Conference to Shape Future Policy Frameworks

• May 1, 2025

On May 13–14, 2025, Brussels will host the final joint conference of three groundbreaking EU-funded projects — IANUS, POIESIS, and VERITY — all united under the theme #TogetherforSocietalTrustinScience, Research and Innovation. Taking place at Talk C.E.C. in Ixelles, Belgium, this high-level workshop and discussion event aims to advance policy frameworks that strengthen public trust in science through transparency, inclusivity, and shared responsibility.

Understanding and Strengthening Trust in Science

Public trust in science is under pressure from misinformation, polarisation, and rapid technological change. The IANUS, POIESIS, and VERITY projects have each tackled these challenges from complementary perspectives:

• IANUS examined how misinformation and emerging technologies affect scientific credibility.
• POIESIS explored the interplay between research integrity, public engagement, and institutional trust.
• VERITY analysed the trust ecosystem, identifying key societal actors as “Stewards of Trust.”

Together, these initiatives have developed actionable insights and policy recommendations to bridge the gap between scientific institutions and society.

A Co-Creative Policy Dialogue

The two-day event invites policymakers, researchers, institutional leaders, and artists into a Co-Creative World Café setting. Through interactive sessions and open dialogue, attendees will:

• Explore policy strategies that enhance trust in areas like climate change, health, and emerging technologies.
• Discuss mechanisms for ensuring public confidence in science-based innovation.
• Exchange best practices for ethical, transparent, and inclusive research communication.

Highlights from the Programme

• Opening Remarks and Keynotes by project leads and EU representatives, including Michael Arentoft (DG RTD) and Georgios Papanagnou (EC).
• Panel on Policy Implementation featuring UNESCO representatives and European Commission officials.
• World Café Discussions to co-develop trust-enhancing policies in real-time.
• Rapporteur Feedback Session to transform table discussions into actionable takeaways.

The second day will focus on policy synthesis and sustainability, followed by internal sessions among the project partners.

Event Details

• Dates: May 13 (10:00–18:00 CEST) & May 14 (09:00–11:00 CEST)
• Location: Talk C.E.C., Chaussee de Wavre 143, Ixelles, Brussels
• Registration Deadline: April 29, 2025
  Register here

This final event represents not just the conclusion of three influential projects, but a pivotal opportunity to build lasting frameworks for societal trust in science. For more information, contact: Steffi@AcumenIST.com.