Impact and Knowledge Exchange

The School of Politics and International Relations is committed to conducting research that addresses real-world challenges and contributes to meaningful change.

Our research actively engages with policymakers, international organisations, and civil society, ensuring that academic insights translate into practical solutions that improve governance, strengthen democracy, and promote human rights worldwide.

The school’s research strategy prioritises impact and knowledge exchange, supporting staff in engaging with local, national, and international non-academic stakeholders. Members of the School regularly collaborate with organisations such as the United Nations, World Bank, Council of Europe, United States Institute of Peace, Transparency International, Walk Free, and International IDEA, as well as national governments and legislatures in the UK, USA, Philippines, Sweden, Brazil, Spain, Bangladesh, Armenia, Mongolia, Malaysia, Poland, and Trinidad and Tobago.

Through these collaborations, we have contributed to modern slavery and human rights initiatives, anti-corruption and integrity management reforms, political finance legislation, security and defence strategies, and policies to curb religious discrimination. Our research has directly influenced legislation, shaped government policies, strengthened civil society capacity, and informed public debate at national and international levels.

Our most significant impacts have occurred in the areas of

Anti-Corruption and Managing Ethics and Integrity in Government
Human Rights and Combatting Modern Slavery Worldwide
Party Finance Reform and Legislative Reform Including the Introduction of Gender Quotas
Security and the Political Management of Hybrid Threats in the UK and NATO

The school actively supports all members of staff seeking to engage in knowledge exchange. Our Impact Group, comprising over 20 staff members and led by an Impact Coordinator, provides training and resources to facilitate the implementation of impact activities. Staff also have access to funding through funds managed by the School of Politics and International Relations, the Faculty of Law and Social Sciences, and the Institute of Policy and Engagement, to initiate new partnerships and expand their engagement with non-academic stakeholders.