Working Policy Paper Series

SUBMISSION IS NOW CLOSED.

The AASSREC Working Policy Paper Series is a key component of the ‘Boosting Social Sciences and Their Contribution to Better Lives Across the Indo-Pacific‘ program. This initiative aims to support the development of 8–10 peer-reviewed policy working papers (3,000–10,000 words) that address priority issues identified at the Regional Funding Summit held in Bangkok in May 2024.

These papers aim to promote evidence-informed policymaking, foster collaboration, and amplify the impact of social science research across the region. AASSREC will publish the Working Policy Paper Series by April 2026. 

Priority Themes

Proposals should relate to one or more of the following priority themes:

  • Advancing Gender Equality
  • Sustainability and Climate Change
  • State and Social Transformations
  • Indigenous Knowledge Systems
  • Intergenerational Inequality

While all social science policy paper submissions will be considered, priority will be given to those that align with the identified themes.

 

Objectives

  • Knowledge Dissemination: Share timely, policy-relevant research with a broad audience.
  • Policy Engagement: Inform policy debates and promote evidence-informed policymaking.
  • Collaboration and Community-Building: Foster interdisciplinary, cross-country research groups.
  • Capacity Strengthening: Support researchers in translating academic research into actionable policy insights.

Policy Paper Characteristics

The main characteristics of the working policy paper series include:

  • Research: The papers may present initial research findings to share ideas and receive feedback before the research is finalised and published in peer-reviewed journals, or they may offer policy-oriented “translation” or summaries of existing research to share ideas regionally and inform policy and practice on specific issues.
  • Policy Focus: The series emphasises practical implications for policymaking or insights from research that could be of interest to policymakers. The papers aim to inform policy and public debates, provide evidence-based recommendations, and contribute to the development of effective policies.
  • Interdisciplinary Approach: Given the nature of policy issues, the papers may draw on a range of disciplines, including, but not limited to, economics, political science, sociology, public administration, and environmental studies.
  • Developed by Working Groups: Each policy paper will be developed by a working group comprising social science researchers (and potentially other practitioners) from AASSREC member countries and other countries in the region.
  • Regional Relevance: The papers should either undertake regional analyses or address national or subnational issues in a way that is appropriate for a regional audience.

 

Process for Proposing a Paper
  • AASSREC issues a call for Paper Proposals and nominations for Working Group Chairs.
  • Members submit proposals and Chair nominations (if applicable).
  • If needed, shortlisted proposals are selected via peer review or member survey.
  • Secretariat confirms Chairs and issues a call for Working Group members.
  • Working Groups are formed; Secretariat facilitates coordination and timelines.
  • Papers are drafted, peer-reviewed, revised, and published.
  • Priority Social Science Research Grant recipients will be invited to contribute papers based on their funded projects.

 

Proposal Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be assessed by the peer-review committee based on the following criteria:

  • Relevance to regional policy challenges and AASSREC priority themes
  • Clarity and coherence of the proposed topic
  • Originality and innovation
  • Feasibility of the proposed approach and structure of the working group
  • Potential to influence policy or engage key stakeholders

All submitted papers will undergo a blind peer review by at least one independent reviewer. Authors will receive feedback and be given an opportunity to revise their paper accordingly. Final approval for publication rests with the AASSREC Secretariat, in consultation with the review panel.

Proposal Submission Structure

Proposal submissions are encouraged to follow the following structure:

  • Title of Proposed Policy Paper
  • Rationale and Objectives (300–400 words)
  • Scope and Methodology (200–300 words)
  • Expected Policy Contribution (150–200 words)
  • Working Group Composition (if applicable) (100–150 words) incl. members and chair(s)
Support Provided

The AASSREC Secretariat will provide support for virtual coordination, formatting, proofing, and light editorial assistance.

No honoraria are available, but participation in the series will be formally acknowledged.

 

For further details on the program and its objectives, processes, and requirements, you may view and download the overview through clicking the button below:
Program Overview
Paper Template