Advancing Evidence-Informed Policy: Outcomes of the Global Research Agenda on Knowledge Translation

Background The effective translation of evidence into policy requires strategic engagement among interest-holders to identify current knowledge gaps, align funding, and minimize research duplication. This study outlines the methods and results of a multi-stage process to develop WHO’s first Global Research Agenda (GRA) on Knowledge Translation and Evidence-informed Policy-making (KT/EIP), aimed at improving research efficiency, guiding funding, increasing evidence use, fostering collaboration, and raising awareness of KT research. Methods From October 2023 to March 2025, a structured five-step approach was undertaken, starting with synthesizing existing evidence on KT strategies and priorities and complemented by primary data from a global survey. These inputs were used to develop a conceptual framework to organize research priority areas. This framework guided a global consultative process, which engaged diverse interest-holders through online consultations and Delphi surveys to jointly identify research gaps, opportunities, and priority areas for inclusion in the final research agenda. Results The initial step of evidence synthesis identified 120 research areas. Through the global consultative process, these were refined to 19 priority research areas organized into three domains: 1) Research on KT/EIP interventions, 2) Research on barriers, facilitators, and opportunities for KT/EIP, and 3) Research on KT/EIP methods, standards, measurement, theories, and frameworks. Specific research areas include strategies to institutionalize KT, targeted approaches for public health emergencies, contextual factors influencing KT/EIP uptake, and the exploration of innovative technologies like Artificial Intelligence. Conclusions This study proposes a prioritized research agenda to guide future KT/EIP research and inform funding decisions. This resource for researchers, policy-makers, and funders requires sustained engagement with interest-holders to maximize its impact. Future research should validate and refine this agenda, and ensure relevance, utility, and effective implementation across diverse settings.