By Genevieve Haupt-Ronnie
Collaboration between researchers, civil society, and governments is more than just a beneficial partnership – it’s essential for turning knowledge into action. In an increasingly complex world, evidence-based solutions are crucial for addressing societal challenges, yet the disconnect between research findings and policy implementation often slows down progress.
In February the Global Parenting Initiative held a shared learning event in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, with the aim of closing this evidence-practice gap. The event brought together a diverse and dynamic group of government officials, academic researchers, implementers and UN partners based in the Southeast Asia region, including Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand.
Globally and within this region, there is a growing body of evidence demonstrating the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of parenting interventions in improving child development, family well-being, and achieving positive societal outcomes. This network of collaborators involved in GPI research and programming are at the forefront of efforts to build this evidence. They are also gaining important insights into key innovations, lessons learnt, and effective approaches for scaling these initiatives, ensuring that they reach the families who need them the most.
The main aim of this event was to share experiences and lessons learnt from collaboration between government, academia, and civil society across the Southeast Asia region on the delivery, impact, and scale-up of parenting programmes to improve child wellbeing and prevent family violence. Each country partner along with their various partners, including stakeholder groups such as government officials, academia and/or civil society members, shared their in-country experiences. This was a great way to identify similarities in how partnerships in various countries work, as well as understand the differences within these regions.
By fostering meaningful partnerships, we can bridge the evidence-practice gap. Researchers provide rigorous evidence, civil society organisations bring grassroots insights and community trust, and governments have the capacity to scale and institutionalise these solutions. Co-creating , -delivering and -testing interventions together with partners from different societal groupings allow for mutual learning, adaptability, and shared ownership of solutions, making policies more effective and responsive.
Of course, these partnerships are not without challenges – differing priorities, bureaucratic hurdles, and power imbalances can hinder progress. But with open communication, long-term commitment, and a shared vision, research can move beyond academic journals and into real-world impact.
The key takeaway? Knowledge sharing is not just an academic exercise – it’s a responsibility. When researchers, civil society, and policymakers collaborate effectively, we don’t just generate knowledge; we change lives.
