The research proposals by José Soares Neves and Renato Miguel do Carmo have been chosen for funding in the 2nd edition of the Science4Policy Call (S4P-24), sponsored by the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT) and PlannAPP. This initiative aims to support the production of scientific knowledge and evidence that contributes to decision-making and the formulation and implementation of public policies by the government and public administration.

The study by José Soares Neves, titled Innovation in the Evaluation of Public Art and Culture Policies, aims to create a set of indicators to monitor and evaluate PAS4. This will make it easier for decision-makers and management structures responsible for implementing the program. The new framework of indicators will provide an essential tool for managing the program, allowing for a more accurate analysis of the achievement of targets and the effectiveness of the cultural policies in place.

The project The Levels of Decentralization in the Fight against Poverty: The New Municipal Competencies in Social Action, coordinated by Renato Miguel do Carmo, aims to provide recommendations for improving public services at the local level. This is based on creating a system of indicators for the Social Insertion Income (RSI) policy. The decentralization of powers to local authorities has been a priority in strengthening public administration in Portugal, allowing social policies to be adapted to the specific needs of each community. The system of indicators proposed by the study is an essential tool for ensuring that the RSI is applied effectively and equitably throughout the country.

Each 12-month project is scheduled to begin in September 2024 and will conclude with delivering a policy brief containing well-founded recommendations for the identified problems. The portfolio of selected projects in the context of the second edition of S4P-24 is available here.