The objective of the PE2020 project is to identify, analyse and refine innovative PE tools and instruments for dynamic and responsible governance of R&I. The study Innovative Public Engagement – A Conceptual Model of Public Engagement in Dynamic and Responsible Governance of Research and Innovation elaborates a conceptual framework of PE, where innovativeness, participatory performance and dynamic governance remain the key concerns. Our data are based on descriptions of 38 innovative PE cases, selected from a global sample of 256 cases that were identified in the data basis of the MASIS and Engage2020 projects, a systematic literature review, and our own qualitative survey.

By setting public engagement (PE) as a key thematic element of responsible research and innovation (RRI), the European Commission promotes fundamental changes in the way in which civil society and other stakeholders outside the scientific community influence – and is expected to influence – research activities. Promoting PE means giving more weight to citizens and stakeholders in the definition of research needs, in the critical reflection of current and future research priorities, and in the implementation of R&I activities.