UofG Centre for Public Policy

Recently published news, blogs and commentary

A screenshot from the webinar featuring speakers Mark McGeoghegan, Kezia Dugdale, Nicola McEwen, Chris Carman
A screenshot from the webinar featuring speakers Mark McGeoghegan, Kezia Dugdale, Nicola McEwen, Chris Carman

Centre unpacks Scottish election results in live webinar – catch up now

Thu, 28 May 2026 10:53:00 BST

28 May 2026: The University of Glasgow’s Centre for Public Policy hosted its final election webinar on 11 May, unpacking the results from the Scottish election with an expert panel.

Briefing papers: Scottish manifestos analysis in key policy areas
Briefing papers: Scottish manifestos analysis in key policy areas

New briefing papers provide analysis of Scottish party manifestos on key policy themes

Thu, 21 May 2026 16:10:00 BST

21 May 2026: With the First Minister and his cabinet now in post, the biggest question left for this minority administration is “how will it govern?” Read a series of thematic briefing papers on where each party stands on key issues, to get a sense of where they align, and where we might see cross-party collaboration.

The Scottish Parliament, text reads Elections 2026
The Scottish Parliament, text reads Elections 2026

No news is bad news: Social media, political literacy and the future of Scottish democracy

Wed, 20 May 2026 13:41:00 BST

20 May 2026: Experts from the University of Glasgow share findings from research conducted in the run-up to the Scottish election, which indicates that the shift from traditional media to social media as the dominant way citizens access news in Scotland has serious consequences for political literacy and participation in democratic life.

A screenshot of the webinar featuring speakers Nicola McEwen, Kezia Dugdale, Mark McGeoghegan, and Rachel Ormiston
A screenshot of the webinar featuring speakers Nicola McEwen, Kezia Dugdale, Mark McGeoghegan, and Rachel Ormiston

Experts discuss whether independence still matters to voters in Scotland – catch up now

Thu, 21 May 2026 10:44:00 BST

21 May 2026: In a live webinar on 30 April, a week before the Scottish Election 2026, Centre for Public Policy and Ipsos experts discussed whether independence still matters to voters and introduced a new joint report.

Election webinar screenshot featuring Graeme Roy, Tanya Wilson, Stuart Adam and David Phillips
Election webinar screenshot featuring Graeme Roy, Tanya Wilson, Stuart Adam and David Phillips

Live election webinar examines tax and spending plans – catch up now

Thu, 21 May 2026 10:31:00 BST

21 May 2026: In collaboration with the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS), the UofG Centre for Public Policy hosted its second election 2026 webinar on 27 April, looking at what the political parties are proposing on tax, public spending and the wider economy.

Council Tax Bill, Elections 2026, Policy Insights
Council Tax Bill, Elections 2026, Policy Insights

2026 Election Policy Insights: Council Tax

Thu, 14 May 2026 16:13:00 BST

14 May 2026: Next in our Election Policy Insights series, Dr Lewis Forsyth examines Council Tax, writing that while it has proved challenging for successive governments in Scotland, properly designed reform of Council Tax - a substantial monthly pressure for many households - has the potential to deliver on wider tax policy objectives, including a more progressive and efficient tax system.

The Scottish Parliament, text reads Elections 2026
The Scottish Parliament, text reads Elections 2026

Winners and losers in the Scottish Parliament Election

Wed, 13 May 2026 12:08:00 BST

13 May 2026: As the dust settles on the 2026 Scottish election, Professor Nicola McEwen gives her insight on the results. She looks at the different party performances, the standout gains and losses, and what a fifth successive term for the SNP means for governing in Scotland, asking whether there is an alternative party of government to the SNP.

Spotlight: Power, policy and the next five years, with Kate Higgins and Graeme Roy
Spotlight: Power, policy and the next five years, with Kate Higgins and Graeme Roy

New UofG Spotlight podcast on what the Scottish election results mean for the future of public policy

Tue, 12 May 2026 09:46:28 BST

12 May 2026: Tune into the final episode of our Spotlight: On the Elections podcast, as we look at the results of the Scottish election and crucially what it all means for the future of public policy, with Graeme Roy and Kate Higgins.

Fair Work Agency: How to make the new workplace watchdog bite

Thu, 07 May 2026 12:58:00 BST

7 May 2026: A new blog by Ruth Dukes and David Whyte argues that the Government’s new Fair Work Agency will struggle to effectively enforce workers’ rights without greater funding, stronger enforcement powers and closer collaboration with trade unions.

Polling station, text reads Elections 2026
Polling station, text reads Elections 2026

What do the polls tell us about the 2026 Scottish Parliament Election?

Wed, 06 May 2026 13:23:00 BST

6 May 2026: Ahead of tomorrow's election in Scotland, Mark McGeoghegan writes that the final polls say the broad outcome seems clear, that the SNP will remain the largest party in the Parliament, however, there are areas of uncertainty. Will they win a majority? Who will be the largest opposition party? Read in full.

The Scottish Parliament, text reads Elections 2026
The Scottish Parliament, text reads Elections 2026

Unfinished business: Why closing the poverty–attainment gap must be an election priority

Wed, 06 May 2026 11:41:00 BST

6 May 2026: Professor Edward Sosu looks at the poverty-attainment gap in schools in Scotland, writing that while there is cross-party agreement on the need to close the gap, it remains 'unfinished business'. He says that sustained support from the next parliament is essential to deliver lasting progress.

Spotlight on the elections: England and Wales, Laura McAllister and Jane Green
Spotlight on the elections: England and Wales, Laura McAllister and Jane Green

Listen to a new UofG Spotlight podcast episode focused on elections in England and Wales

Wed, 06 May 2026 10:16:35 BST

6 May 2026: In this episode of our On the Elections podcast series, we’re looking to England and Wales, where elections are also being held on 7 May, with Professor Laura McAllister and Professor Jane Green.

The Scottish Parliament, text reads Elections 2026
The Scottish Parliament, text reads Elections 2026

Scottish justice at a crossroads: Prison, policy, and the need for decarceration

Wed, 06 May 2026 11:25:00 BST

6 May 2026: University of Glasgow academics examine decarceration in Scotland, writing that without confronting the limits of punishment, decarceration will remain politically fragile. Ahead of a new parliamentary term, they look at how feasible decarceration might be and how the parties talk about it in their manifestos.

Policy insights elections 2026, globe
Policy insights elections 2026, globe

2026 Election Policy Insights: The Global Economy and Scotland

Tue, 05 May 2026 11:58:00 BST

5 May 2026: Next up in our Election Policy Insights series, Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli examines Scotland's economic outlook amid growing global instability, writing that the pressures sharpen the case for renewed focus on Scotland's economic growth.

Policy Insights, Elections 2026, student reading
Policy Insights, Elections 2026, student reading

2026 Election Policy Insights: Education

Fri, 01 May 2026 14:39:00 BST

1 May 2026: Professor Christopher Chapman and Honorary Professor Graham Donaldson set out the challenge ahead for Scottish education, proposing seven steps the next government in Scotland could take to create a more dynamic approach to policymaking and bridge the gap with the classroom.

Scottish Parliament, Elections 2026
Scottish Parliament, Elections 2026

New report finds that while salience has dropped, Scottish independence still matters to voters

Fri, 01 May 2026 14:49:00 BST

1 May 2026: A new report, based on February and March 2026 polling by Ipsos, explores the drivers of voting behaviour in Scotland. It finds that constitutional preferences remain the strongest determinant of voting intention among Scottish voters.

The Scottish Parliament, text reads Elections 2026
The Scottish Parliament, text reads Elections 2026

Criminal justice right, left and centre in the 2026 Scottish Elections

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 11:37:00 BST

30 April 2026: Following a review of Scottish party manifestos, Emma Jardine and Dr Louise Kennefick highlight that while criminal justice rarely takes centre stage, all major parties acknowledge prison overcrowding and propose responses ranging from expanding capacity and strengthening sentencing to investing in prevention and community justice.

Preview of Centre for Public Policy Manifestos Analysis Grid, Elections 2026
Preview of Centre for Public Policy Manifestos Analysis Grid, Elections 2026

Manifestos analysis grid - Elections 2026

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 19:32:00 BST

29 April 2026: What do the party manifestos say, at a glance, on the big topics facing Scotland? Access the Centre for Public Policy's new manifesto grid analysis on what each party is pledging on topics from health, to transport, to energy.

Money and calculator, text reads Elections 2026 Policy Insights
Money and calculator, text reads Elections 2026 Policy Insights

2026 Election Policy Insights: Fiscal

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 14:39:00 BST

29 April 2026: Professor Graeme Roy examines the fiscal reality facing Scotland's next Parliament. He writes that the next group of MSPs will need to grapple with a gap – not unique to Scotland – between what any government would like to do and what they can sustainably afford to do.

Spotlight, On the election Can the next Scottish Government Fix Public Services?
Spotlight, On the election Can the next Scottish Government Fix Public Services?

Listen to new UofG Spotlight podcast episode on public services

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 14:31:37 BST

29 April 2026: Tune in to episode 6 of our On the Elections UofG Spotlight podcast, as we talk about public services with Professor Frances Mair from the University of Glasgow and Sarah Davidson from Carnegie UK.

Compass, Elections 2026, Policy Insights
Compass, Elections 2026, Policy Insights

2026 Election Policy Insights: Migration

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 14:39:00 BST

28 April 2026: Next in our Election 2026 Policy Insight series, Dr Dan Fisher explores migration - a policy area reserved to the UK Parliament but with far‑reaching consequences for devolved responsibilities in Scotland. He writes that changing UK and Scottish political dynamics are likely to make the implementation and contestation of migration policy increasingly complex in the coming parliamentary term.

Centre for Public Policy and Academy for Social Science webinar featuring speakers Dr Hefin Gwilym, Professor Kezia Dugdale, Professor Nicola McEwen
Centre for Public Policy and Academy for Social Science webinar featuring speakers Dr Hefin Gwilym, Professor Kezia Dugdale, Professor Nicola McEwen

Centre for Public Policy Election 2026 webinar series begins with conversation on devolution and the cost-of-living crisis

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 12:27:00 BST

24 April 2026: In collaboration with the Campaign for Social Science, the University of Glasgow’s Centre for Public Policy began its Election 2026 webinar series on the 21 April, looking at what devolved governments can do to address the cost-of-living crisis, across both Scotland and Wales.

The Scottish Parliament, text reads Elections 2026
The Scottish Parliament, text reads Elections 2026

Care at the margins: How political parties frame unpaid care in the 2026 Scottish Parliament Election

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 14:00:00 BST

23 April 2026: Following her blog published last week that set out the issue, Dr Louise Lawson argues that unpaid care, largely carried out by women, remains undervalued and marginal in most Scottish party manifestos, despite its major social and economic impact.

Spotlight on the elections episode 5: Can the next Scottish government revive the economy? With Sara Carter, David Waite, and Stephen Boyd
Spotlight on the elections episode 5: Can the next Scottish government revive the economy? With Sara Carter, David Waite, and Stephen Boyd

Listen to UofG Spotlight new episode on the economy

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 12:04:00 BST

23 April 2026: In the latest episode of the UofG Spotlight podcast, we ask can the next Scottish government revive the economy? Featuring a timely conversation with host Graeme Roy, and guests Sara Carter, David Waite, and Stephen Boyd.

Aberlour event banner
Aberlour event banner

Child Poverty and Public Debt: Doing Debt Recovery Differently

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 10:30:00 BST

On 23 March, welfare advisers, local government officers, campaigners and academics came together at the Centre for Public Policy to explore one of the most pressing and hidden drivers of poverty in Scotland: public debt.

Political panel at the Hustings chaired by Professor Kezia Dugdale
Political panel at the Hustings chaired by Professor Kezia Dugdale

Hustings event discussed Early Learning and Childcare in the lead up to the Scottish Election 2026

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 10:46:00 BST

23 April 2026: In collaboration with Pregnant Then Screwed, the University of Glasgow’s Centre for Public Policy co-hosted a hustings event on Friday 10 April, challenging Scotland’s political parties on early learning and childcare.

University of Glasgow Cloisters
University of Glasgow Cloisters

Centre for Public Policy launches 2026-2027 Practice Fellow scheme for policy professionals

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 10:14:00 BST

22 April 2026: The University of Glasgow’s Centre for Public Policy (CPP) is now accepting applications for the 2026-2027 cohort of Practice Fellows, an opportunity for policy professionals to spend approximately 30 hours over eight months working with the Centre to access academic insights into policy questions they face in their roles.

The Scottish Parliament, text reads Elections 2026
The Scottish Parliament, text reads Elections 2026

Price caps and the UK Internal Market Act

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 15:49:00 BST

21 April 2026: Professor Nicola McEwen examines the proposed essential food price cap in the SNP manifesto. She explains the 'roadblocks' this policy might face and especially whether it would be compatible with the UK Internal Market Act.

On the election, Episode 4, Spotlight, The manifestos, With Alistair Clark and Chris Birt
On the election, Episode 4, Spotlight, The manifestos, With Alistair Clark and Chris Birt

Listen to UofG Spotlight On the Elections podcast on the Scottish party manifestos

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 16:15:35 BST

20 April 2026: In this episode of the UofG Spotlight On the Elections podcast, we’re looking at what’s in the manifestos of the Scottish parties with Alistair Clark from the University of Newcastle and Chris Birt from the Joseph Rowantree Foundation.

The Scottish Parliament, text reads Elections 2026
The Scottish Parliament, text reads Elections 2026

Unpaid care and women’s work: The missing piece in Scotland’s policy debate

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 09:13:00 BST

16 April 2026: Dr Louise Lawson writes that unpaid care remains one of the biggest drivers of economic inactivity, with women continuing to be impacted most. She shares findings from her research to illustrate the impact of unpaid care and urges politicians in Scotland to recognise care as requiring long-term investment and infrastructure.

On the elections, episode 03, Spotlight, The rise of the right, Sunder Katwala, Judith Sijstermans, and Pontus Odmalm
On the elections, episode 03, Spotlight, The rise of the right, Sunder Katwala, Judith Sijstermans, and Pontus Odmalm

Listen to UofG Spotlight: The Rise of the Right

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 09:24:00 BST

15 April 2026: In this third episode of our election podcast series, we meet today to discuss the rise of the right, speaking to Sunder Katwala, Director of British Future, and two researchers with expertise in radical right populism, Dr Judith Sijstermans and Dr Pontus Odmalm.

Policy Insights Elections 2026, law scales
Policy Insights Elections 2026, law scales

2026 Election Policy Insights: Justice

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 14:39:00 BST

9 April 2026: In the first in our series of 2026 Election Policy Insights tackling the big policy issues ahead for the country, Fiona McPhail examines Justice. She outlines the case for reforming legal aid in Scotland, which she writes would allow the country to reap the economic and social benefits legal aid systems provide to wider society.

Spotlight On the election episode 2: An election in the shadow of war? with John Edward and Geoff Aberdein
Spotlight On the election episode 2: An election in the shadow of war? with John Edward and Geoff Aberdein

Listen to a new episode of UofG Spotlight: On the Election, Ep02 An Election in the Shadow of War?

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 09:46:00 BST

9 April 2026: In today’s episode of our UofG Spotlight: On the Elections series, we're looking at the election through the lens of global politics and growing global insecurity with Geoff Aberdein and John Edward.

Scottish Parliament chamber, text reads Elections 2026
Scottish Parliament chamber, text reads Elections 2026

Progress without parity: Ethnic and racial minority participation at Holyrood

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 10:18:00 BST

7 April 2026: Professor Nasar Meer and Dr Timothy Peace look ahead to the Scottish elections in May, noting that while Scotland is more diverse than at any point in its electoral history, representation in the Scottish Parliament lags behind.

Spotlight, on the election episode 1, The polls and the policies so far, Chris Carman and Mark McGeoghegan
Spotlight, on the election episode 1, The polls and the policies so far, Chris Carman and Mark McGeoghegan

Tune in to a new podcast series, Spotlight: On the elections

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 14:26:22 BST

2 April 2026: Kicking off our ‘On the elections’ series of the UofG Spotlight podcast, tune in to our state of the race episode with hosts Nicola McEwen and Kez Dugdale and UofG guests Chris Carman and Mark McGeoghegan.

Cover: Evaluating Cross‑Boundary Childcare Provision in Scotland
Cover: Evaluating Cross‑Boundary Childcare Provision in Scotland

New evaluation research offers learnings for future childcare policy development

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 16:28:00 BST

2 April 2026: A new Evaluation Report based on research by the Centre for Public Policy and commissioned by Pregnant Then Screwed, assesses the impact of a policy decision by City of Edinburgh Council to restrict access to childcare provision for ‘cross‑boundary families’, offering learnings for future policy development and implementation.

Polling station, text reads Elections 2026
Polling station, text reads Elections 2026

CPP on Elections 2026: Informing the debate with political and policy analysis

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 14:06:00 BST

1 April 2026: The Centre for Public Policy's Mark McGeoghegan and Professor Kezia Dugdale write that the link between politics and policy is broken in most coverage and analysis of British and Scottish politics. During the Spring elections in the UK, the Centre will work to bridge that gap. Read this blog for more on what the impact is of this 'decoupling' of analysis, and what to expect from the Centre in the coming weeks.

Image of the Policy Surgery
Image of the Policy Surgery

Policy Brief Writing Surgery: A Successful Collaboration Between the Centre for Public Policy and the Political Economic Futures Forum (PEFF)

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 11:49:00 GMT

27 March 2026: The Centre for Public Policy, in partnership with the Political Economic Futures Forum IRT (PEFF), recently hosted a highly successful Policy Brief Writing Surgery - an interactive development session designed to equip researchers with the practical skills and strategic insight needed to craft compelling, impactful policy briefings.

Arial view of a housing development in progress
Arial view of a housing development in progress

Debating a housing delivery agency for Scotland

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 11:03:00 GMT

25 March 2026: The UK Collaborative Centre for Housing Evidence (CaCHE) has published a briefing paper on the new national housing agency, announced by the First Minister in January. In this blog, Director of CaCHE Professor Ken Gibb introduces the paper - which is based on sector-wide interviews and input from government - and its key messages.

Book reading assisted dying laws
Book reading assisted dying laws

Assisted dying: Scottish Parliament rejection and unintended constitutional consequences

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 09:55:00 GMT

23 March 2026: University of Glasgow expert Dr Naomi Richards reflects on the rejection of the Bill in the Scottish Parliament last week, how the issue is playing out in other parts of the UK, and the unintended constitutional consequences the issue has thrown into view.

Centre for Public Policy Practice Fellow blog Charles Burke
Centre for Public Policy Practice Fellow blog Charles Burke

Agency and Accountability in the Age of Agentic AI

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 16:26:19 GMT

20 March 2026: As AI systems move from answering questions to taking action, who is responsible when things go wrong? Charles Burke, Head of International Trade & Business Policy at the Scotland Office and CPP 2025 Practice Fellow, explores what agentic AI means for governance and public policy.

Season 7 Episode 5, Spotlight, Are we tackling poverty in Scotland? With Thomas Rochow and Jim McCormick
Season 7 Episode 5, Spotlight, Are we tackling poverty in Scotland? With Thomas Rochow and Jim McCormick

Listen to UofG Spotlight: Are we tackling poverty in Scotland?

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 16:19:41 GMT

17 March 2026: In this episode of the UofG Spotlight podcast, Kezia Dugdale speaks with Jim McCormick, Chief Executive of The Robertson Trust, about the Scottish Government’s new Child Poverty Framework, and to the Centre's Dr Thomas Rochow on why income support alone isn’t enough without accessible services and joined‑up systems.

A photo of the Spotlight Live panel chaired by Professor Kezia Dugdale
A photo of the Spotlight Live panel chaired by Professor Kezia Dugdale

University of Glasgow event examines how to make public service reform stick in Scotland

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 09:31:00 GMT

13 March 2026: The University’s Centre for Public Policy brought together the research and policy communities, and speakers from across civic Scotland, for an all-day event on 19 January 2026, focused on how to make public service reform stick in Scotland.

Scottish Parliament building
Scottish Parliament building

Whatever its outcome, the election is a reset moment for Scotland

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 08:24:00 GMT

13 March 2026: With the 2026 Scottish election rapidly approaching and following a keynote speech at the Centre for Public Policy's recent Stop/Start event, Professor Nicola McEwen emphasises why this election is an important reset moment and an opportunity to reflect on what has worked, what hasn't, and what we can collectively do better.

Fiona Duncan and Paul McAleavey
Fiona Duncan and Paul McAleavey

Centre for Public Policy appoints two new Honorary Professors

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 14:33:00 GMT

13 March 2026: The University’s Centre for Public Policy has appointed Fiona Duncan, Independent Strategic Advisor on The Promise Scotland, and Dr Paul McAleavey, senior civil servant in the European Commission, as Honorary Professors to support its work.

Professor Graeme Roy, Centre for Public Policy and University of Glasgow logo
Professor Graeme Roy, Centre for Public Policy and University of Glasgow logo

The fiscal reality for next Scottish Parliament

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 12:16:00 GMT

12 March 2026: Published in The Herald on Monday 9 March 2026, Professor Graeme Roy summarises the key messages from the latest Scottish Fiscal Commission report on the budget constraints facing the next Scottish Parliament.

Season 7 Episode 4, Spotlight, The Future of Higher Education, Anton Muscatelli, Catherine Lido
Season 7 Episode 4, Spotlight, The Future of Higher Education, Anton Muscatelli, Catherine Lido

Listen to UofG Spotlight: The Future of Higher Education

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 11:44:26 GMT

11 March 2026: Tune in to the latest episode of the Spotlight podcast, as we focus on the future of higher education with Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli and Professor Catherine Lido.

Centre for Public Policy Practice Fellow blog - Christina Kopanou
Centre for Public Policy Practice Fellow blog - Christina Kopanou

Developing the Childcare Challenge Fund with robust evidence through Practice Fellowship

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 12:14:00 GMT

11 March 2026: Christina Kopanou, Centre for Public Policy Practice Fellow and Principal Economist in the Glasgow City Council (GCC) Intelligence Hub shares how she used her 2025 Fellowship and collaboration with University of Glasgow researchers to contribute to the GCC Foundational Economy Programme, in particular the Childcare Challenge Fund.

Centre for Public Policy Practice Fellow Blog Andrew Docherty
Centre for Public Policy Practice Fellow Blog Andrew Docherty

The Impact of the Levelling Up Agenda in the Glasgow City Region

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 12:36:00 GMT

11 March 2026: Andrew Docherty, Centre for Public Policy Practice Fellow and Delivery, Engagement & Governance Lead (MHCLG), UK Government considers the impact the Levelling Up agenda has had in the Glasgow City Region, noting that while economic growth has occurred, inclusive growth remains uneven.

Centre for Public Policy Practice Fellow blog - Lucy Mulvagh
Centre for Public Policy Practice Fellow blog - Lucy Mulvagh

Square peg, round hole: What’s needed to deliver prevention policy

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 16:02:00 GMT

11 March 2026: Lucy Mulvagh, Director of Policy, Research and Impact at the ALLIANCE shares how she used the Centre for Public Policy Practice Fellowship to examine prevention, and why - despite shared intent - Scotland struggles to deliver it in practice. Lucy shares her interim conclusions into current barriers working against delivering prevention policy.

Insights from Professor Nicola McEwen
Insights from Professor Nicola McEwen

Why the European Charter of Local Self-Government Bill is unlikely to go as far as its advocates hope

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 12:08:00 GMT

3 March 2026: As the Scottish Parliament meets today to reconsider the European Charter of Local Self-Government (Incorporation) (Scotland) Bill, Professor Nicola McEwen shares insights from a recent co-authored report, which underlines why the Bill is unlikely to go as far as its advocates hope in protecting local government.

A photo of a pen on top of a contract, text reads Policy Insights
A photo of a pen on top of a contract, text reads Policy Insights

Policy Insights: From agreement to action: Supporting regional development through contracts across levels of government

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 10:28:00 GMT

3 March 2026: University of Glasgow experts Professor Graeme Roy and Dr David Waite, with Dr Claire Charbit and Dr Margarida Bandeira Morais from the OECD, write about the mechanism of contracts in regional development and how it binds different layers of government in regional policymaking.

The Scottish Parliament building
The Scottish Parliament building

A new national strategy for Scotland, and why it matters!

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 16:11:00 GMT

27 February 2026: Following the announcement of a new National Performance Framework (NPF) for Scotland last week by the Scottish Government, Dr Ian C. Elliott shares why a strategic approach to government is as important as ever, despite a ‘growing sense of cynicism’.

Spotlight Season 7 Episode 3 - Hard choice ahead? Budget challenges facing the next Government
Spotlight Season 7 Episode 3 - Hard choice ahead? Budget challenges facing the next Government

New UofG Spotlight podcast: Hard choices ahead? Budget challenges facing the next Government

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 15:14:02 GMT

24 February 2026: In the latest episode of the UofG Spotlight podcast, Nicola McEwen and Graeme Roy look ahead to the challenges facing the next Scottish Government as it confronts a tight fiscal landscape.

Dr Ian C. Elliott giving evidence in Parliament
Dr Ian C. Elliott giving evidence in Parliament

Dr Ian C. Elliott gives evidence to Scottish Parliament on public administration legacy issues

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 12:32:00 GMT

20 February 2026: Dr Ian C. Elliott, Senior Lecturer at the Centre for Public Policy, attended the Scottish Parliament’s Finance and Public Administration Committee to give evidence on public administration legacy issues.

Centre for Public Policy welcomes Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli as Senior Fellow

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 09:50:00 GMT

20 February 2026: Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli, President of the Royal Society of Edinburgh, former Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Glasgow and leading economist has joined the University’s Centre for Public Policy as a Senior Fellow.

Policy Insights, lady justice statue
Policy Insights, lady justice statue

Policy Insights: Access to Justice and the need for Civil Legal Aid Reform in Scotland

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 11:40:00 GMT

16 February 2026: In a new Policy Insights piece, University of Glasgow experts Dr Jo Hynes, Fiona McPhail and Jack Smith, write about how legal aid should be reformed to strengthen access to justice in Scotland.

Spotlight Season 7 Episode 2 Work, Ageing and the Employment Rights Act, Kathleen Riach and Melanie Simms
Spotlight Season 7 Episode 2 Work, Ageing and the Employment Rights Act, Kathleen Riach and Melanie Simms

Listen: UofG Spotlight - Work, Ageing and the Employment Rights Act

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 11:52:00 GMT

12 February 2026: This week, UofG Spotlight podcast host Professor Kezia Dugdale is joined by Professor Kathleen Riach and Professor Melanie Simms from the University of Glasgow, to talk about work, ageing and the Employment Rights Act.

UofG early career researchers learn about policy development in government at recent event

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 13:44:00 GMT

11 February 2026: In a session for early career researchers at the University of Glasgow, Honorary Professor Ken Thomson, former Director General Strategy and External Affairs at the Scottish Government shared his expertise in how policy is developed and how researchers’ expertise can influence throughout that process.

Stop/Start Lightning Talk: Measuring What Matters

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 15:55:00 GMT

Adam Lang argues that Scotland must improve how it measures public policy success, as current metrics often fail to reflect real improvements in people’s lives and contribute to widening inequalities. He calls for a shift towards measuring wellbeing, prevention and long-term outcomes, ensuring that data genuinely shapes policy decisions and investment priorities.

Stop/Start Lightning Talk: ‘Stop Right There – Thank You Very Much!’

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 15:25:00 GMT

Ross Martin argues that Scotland must stop fragmented, efficiency-driven approaches to public service reform and instead adopt coordinated, person-centred reform that improves outcomes and supports inclusive economic growth. He emphasises the need to reduce duplication across services and empower regional and local partners to deliver more effective, joined-up solutions.

Stop/Start Lightning Talk: Scotland’s housing crisis

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 14:43:00 GMT

In her STOP lightning talk, Alison Watson, Director of Shelter Scotland, argues that Scotland must stop treating homelessness as inevitable and instead take urgent, systemic action to uphold housing rights, invest in prevention and build the social homes needed to end the housing emergency.

Stop/Start Lightning Talk: Start using floor targets to tackle unequal outcomes

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 14:48:00 GMT

Professor Annette Hastings highlights how floor targets, which set minimum performance standards, can help public services focus on supporting the most disadvantaged groups and reducing unequal outcomes. She argues that evidence shows these targets encourage more effective and preventative approaches to tackling inequality, but they remain underused in Scottish policy.

Stop/Start Lightning Talk: Stop waiting for schools to close the attainment gap - A hard budget choice

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 14:54:00 GMT

Fiona McFarlane argues that with limited public funding, Scotland must shift investment from school-based attainment initiatives towards early years support, as educational inequality is largely driven by developmental issues that begin before children start school. She suggests that focusing resources on strengthening family support and early child development would have a greater long-term impact on closing the attainment gap.

A mockup of the report, Conditioning Power
A mockup of the report, Conditioning Power

New report examines what UK Supreme Court decisions mean for devolved law-making

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 20:54:00 GMT

5 February 2026: A new report says an unexpected interpretation of section 28(7) of the Scotland Act by the UK Supreme Court has generated uncertainty around limits of law-making in the Scottish Parliament, the Senedd and the Northern Ireland Assembly, and offers practical solutions to resolve the issues.

A person carries a EU flag sign in London, UK
A person carries a EU flag sign in London, UK

The promised UK/EU 'reset'

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 10:02:00 GMT

4 February 2026: Is the UK/EU ‘reset’ pledged in the Labour manifesto losing momentum? Professor Anand Menon, Director of UK in a Changing Europe, explores progress so far and what we might see in 2026, particularly with elections approaching in May and the potential 'wildcard' of US President Trump.

Scottish Parliament
Scottish Parliament

Scotland's new bonds will put a price tag on independence

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 09:27:00 GMT

3 February 2026: A new blog from Patrick E. Shea and Ben Cormier examines the Scottish Government's plans to issue its first national bonds - or 'kilts' - writing that although intended as 'symbolic', it is an exercise that has clarified the price of independence, that 'bond yields and credit ratings will now function as a financial referendum'.

Scottish Parliament
Scottish Parliament

Scottish Budget: What does the continual increase in Social Security spending mean for Scotland?

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 10:47:00 GMT

28 January 2026: With an extra £0.6 billion in the Scottish Budget for social security, Dr Thomas Rochow writes about ensuring the welcomed increase in social security investment is coupled with long-term planning and action to address the structural causes of poverty, such as underemployment and unaffordable housing.

A blue graphic with the NHS logo on laid out cards
A blue graphic with the NHS logo on laid out cards

The Scottish Budget and the politics of the NHS

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 10:59:00 GMT

28 January 2026: Professor Ellen Stewart examines why the NHS featured as a leading headline of the Scottish Budget announcement - when the increase of the health budget ‘is modest, if not tight'.

A photo of the UK parliament
A photo of the UK parliament

National School for Government and Public Services: Why collaboration is key to fixing the 'broken state'

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 10:20:00 GMT

27 January 2026: Following the UK government announcing last week its intention to set up a new National School for Government and Public Services, Dr Ian C. Elliott sets out how this initiative might help to ‘fix things’ and what it will take to ‘move fast’, highlighting the value of universities and policymakers co-designing it.

A person writing
A person writing

The Scottish Budget and the Future of Learning: What Was Said and What Wasn’t

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 14:10:00 GMT

22 January 2026: Professor Catherine Lido examines the Scottish Budget, announced on 15 January, in the context of education: what was said (and what wasn't), writing that while learning was not absent from the budget, there was a lack of substantive discussion on higher education, critical AI literacy, lifelong learning or a ‘curriculum for life’.

Spotlight Live: Challenging Scotland's Political Leaders
Spotlight Live: Challenging Scotland's Political Leaders

Listen: UofG Spotlight podcast - Challenging Scotland's Political Leaders

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 11:16:00 GMT

22 January 2026: Listen to a new live episode of the UofG Spotlight podcast, challenging Scotland's political leaders on public service reform and the fiscal challenge facing Scotland.

Globe
Globe

Prospects for the global economy in 2026: geoeconomics and trade tensions remain a threat

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 13:45:00 GMT

8 January 2026: Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli examines prospects for the global economy in 2026, focusing on the risks posed by geoeconomic fragmentation, trade tensions and US protectionism. Reflecting on trade policy and the implications for the US, Europe and the UK in the year ahead.

Designing for Impact: A Creative Internship at CPP

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 11:59:00 GMT

17 December 2025: At the time of her internship, Kristina Kurincova was completing an MSc in Finance and Management at the University of Glasgow. In this blog, she shares her experience as an intern for the Centre for Public Policy in summer 2025, where she supported the refresh of the Centre’s website and digital communications. 

Spotlight Trump's Second Act, Leadership, Tariffs, and Tensions, With Mark Blyth and Juliet Kaarbo
Spotlight Trump's Second Act, Leadership, Tariffs, and Tensions, With Mark Blyth and Juliet Kaarbo

Listen - Trump’s Second Act: Leadership, Tariffs, and Tensions

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 14:41:00 GMT

16 December 2025: For the final episode of Season 6 of our UofG Spotlight podcast, we reflect on a turbulent year in American politics and its global ripple effects. Hosts Nicola McEwen and Kez Dugdale are joined by two leading voices in international affairs, Professors Mark Blyth and Juliet Kaarbo.

Post it notes
Post it notes

From stories to policies: narrative and creative methods for practical change

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 12:33:00 GMT

16 December 2025: UofG researchers recently hosted a two-day workshop looking at how narratives shape policymaking. In this blog, they share reflections on the discussions – who and what evidence is heard, methods for how narratives can be incorporated, and working examples, from NHS patient feedback to the Scottish Parliament’s use of lived experience in policymaking.

Two people holding hands
Two people holding hands

Sponsoring immigrant care workers in Scotland: Politics vs. policy

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 11:28:44 GMT

11 December 2025: At the SNP annual conference in October, First Minister John Swinney announced the Scottish Government's intention to sponsor visas for care workers in Scotland. Professor Sergi Pardos-Prado examines this announcement and the rationale behind it, asking is this policy or politics?

Wind turbines
Wind turbines

What does the UK Budget mean for Climate Change?

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 10:42:00 GMT

4 December 2025: Professor Patrick Bayer examines last week's UK Budget in the context of climate change, in particular announcements on household energy bills and taxes for electric vehicles, writing that – while mindful of competing spending demands – it is a budget that lacks climate ambition.

A photo of Glasgow's skyline
A photo of Glasgow's skyline

New report sets out options for city-region policy in Scotland

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 12:05:00 GMT

1 December 2025: Read a new report, written by the University of Glasgow's David Waite and Graeme Roy, and University of Strathclyde's Stuart McIntyre and Niall G MacKenzie, that sets out a framework for regional and city-region policy to become a central focus of policymaking in Scotland.

Spotlight, The UK Budget, What You Need to Know
Spotlight, The UK Budget, What You Need to Know

Listen: What you need to know about the UK Budget

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 13:00:00 GMT

28 November 2025: What does the UK Budget mean for Scotland? What does lifting the two child Limit mean? Tune in to our latest UofG Spotlight podcast episode, The UK Budget: What You Need to Know, with Professor Graeme Roy, Dr David Waite, and Professor Ruth Patrick.

Integrity by Design: Learning from new anti-corruption approaches in the EU

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 12:46:00 GMT

25 November 2025: In a new blog post, UofG experts in the Adam Smith Business School examine the proposed EU Anticorruption Directive, sharing how it aims to address irregularities in public procurement, money laundering and the protection of whistleblowing, and share insights from their new Horizon-funded research report.

Panel event discussed childcare challenges and opportunities

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 12:13:00 GMT

25 November 2025: On 7 November, the Centre for Public Policy co-hosted a panel event with charity Pregnant Then Screwed, to discuss the challenges and opportunities in early learning and childcare, and present research findings from a recent report on a change to the delivery of childcare in Scotland.

UofG Centre for Public Policy: Connecting policymakers with academic expertise and evidence, photo of Nicola McEwen
UofG Centre for Public Policy: Connecting policymakers with academic expertise and evidence, photo of Nicola McEwen

WATCH: Connecting policymakers with academic expertise and evidence

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 16:00:18 GMT

19 November 2025: A new video from the Centre for Public Policy shares how it connects policymakers with the expertise and knowledge of experts at the University of Glasgow, helping them tackle the challenges facing the world today.

UofG Spotlight, Season 6 episode 3, Legal Aid Reform: What it means for Families and Women, With Satwat Rehman, Marsha Scott, Jen Ang, and Fiona McPhail
UofG Spotlight, Season 6 episode 3, Legal Aid Reform: What it means for Families and Women, With Satwat Rehman, Marsha Scott, Jen Ang, and Fiona McPhail

Listen to Legal Aid Reform: What It Means for Families and Women

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 10:33:00 GMT

13 November 2025: Tune in to a brand new episode of the UofG Spotlight podcast which tackles access to justice, featuring leading University of Glasgow academics and legal aid practitioners, Fiona McPhail and Jen Ang, and Chief Executive of One Parent Families Scotland Satwat Rehman and Chief Executive of Scottish Women’s Aid Marsha Scott.

Learning about composite stories in Using Stories to Understand Systems workshop

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 12:17:00 GMT

13 November 2025: On 6 November, the Centre for Public Policy hosted a public workshop as part of the ESRC Festival of Social Sciences, where participants learned about and created composite stories, a new way of bringing lived experience into research and policymaking.

Interplay between Westminster and Holyrood to be put to the test

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 12:01:00 GMT

13 November 2025: In an article published in The Herald on 10 November 2025, Professor Graeme Roy writes about the upcoming UK Budget and how it might impact Scotland, given the ‘the continuing interdependence of the two systems’.

A photo of he EGPA conference with a play icon
A photo of he EGPA conference with a play icon

New video reflects on milestone European Group for Public Administration (EGPA) Annual Conference held in Glasgow

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 10:22:00 GMT

12 November 2025: In August, the Centre for Public Policy welcomed public administration scholars from around the world to Glasgow for the largest ever European Group for Public Administration (EGPA) Conference. Watch a new highlights video and read expert insights from the conference.

A photo of the University of Glasgow main building from Kelvingrove Park
A photo of the University of Glasgow main building from Kelvingrove Park

Opportunity for PhD students – join our 2026 Election Team

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 14:13:11 GMT

12 November 2025: The Centre for Public Policy has an opportunity for a Scottish Graduate School for Social Science (SGSSS) PhD student to join our 2026 Election Team on an Academic Placement.

A photo of the Centre for Public Policy event at the SNP Conference
A photo of the Centre for Public Policy event at the SNP Conference

Important discussion on child poverty convened by Centre for Public Policy at SNP Conference

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 10:53:00 GMT

5 November 2025: The Centre for Public Policy hosted a conversation on eradicating child poverty at this year’s SNP Annual Conference fringe, drawing an audience of party members, MSPs and Ministers.

Join Cabinet Office Conversations event with UK Government’s Chief Security Officer Vincent Devine

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 14:46:00 GMT

4 November 2025: Join us for an insightful conversation - hosted by the Centre for Public Policy Associate Director Professor Kezia Dugdale - with Vincent Devine, the UK Government’s Chief Security Officer, as he shares reflections on a career spanning three decades in public service.

Looking at the impact of Trump on geopolitics ahead of COP30

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 11:45:00 GMT

4 November 2025: In this blog Dr Maha Rafi Atal writes about the upcoming COP30 climate summit and the role Donald Trump has played in watering down global environmental commitments during his first year in office. 

stethescope
stethescope

GP walk in centres will address missingness in healthcare? – not likely, here’s why

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 15:08:00 GMT

30 October 2025: Professor Andrea Williamson writes about the reality of establishing GP walk in centres in Scotland and the role proper resourcing could play in addressing missingness in healthcare services to improving health equity.

a photo of the EGPA conference screen reading the Largest EGPA Conference in History
a photo of the EGPA conference screen reading the Largest EGPA Conference in History

Public service reforms and reversals in Europe: The need for better lock-in strategies

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 16:02:00 BST

23 October 2025: Continuing our European Group for Public Administration (EGPA) blog series, Dr Eka Akobia examines Georgia as an example of 'de-professionalisation' and 'repoliticisation' of public service, cautioning that reforms can crumble without strong institutions and political commitment.

image of Revenue Scotland event
image of Revenue Scotland event

Reflecting on a Decade of Devolved Tax Powers: Revenue Scotland’s 10-Year Roundtable

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 15:06:00 BST

17 October 2025: This blog was originally posted by Revenue Scotland following a collaborative roundtable event held with the Centre for Public Policy to celebrate its tenth anniversary.

A photo of Sabine Kuhlmann, text reads EGPA 2025 Conference, Glasgow, Scotland 26-29 August, Blog series
A photo of Sabine Kuhlmann, text reads EGPA 2025 Conference, Glasgow, Scotland 26-29 August, Blog series

Public administration in turbulent times: A polycrises era that offers challenges and opportunities

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 16:23:00 BST

15 October 2025: Following her contribution to the 2025 EGPA conference in Glasgow, Professor Sabine Kuhlmann writes about the ‘polycrises’ era – from COVID-19 to geopolitical conflicts - and how prepared public administration in Europe is to face it.

A photo of Nicola McEwen giving evidence in the Scottish Parliament
A photo of Nicola McEwen giving evidence in the Scottish Parliament

Centre Director Professor Nicola McEwen gives evidence to Scottish Parliament on intergovernmental relations

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 15:22:29 BST

10 October 2025: Nicola McEwen attended the Scottish Parliament’s Constitution, Europe, External Affairs and Culture Committee to share her academic expertise on the transparency of intergovernmental activity and its implications for parliamentary scrutiny.

The State of Poverty: Systems and those stories of those navigating them, a photo of Kezia Dugdale and the University of Glasgow and Centre for Public Policy logos
The State of Poverty: Systems and those stories of those navigating them, a photo of Kezia Dugdale and the University of Glasgow and Centre for Public Policy logos

The State of Poverty: Systems and the stories of those navigating them

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 15:59:00 BST

9 October 2025: This Challenge Poverty Week, Professor Kezia Dugdale introduces the methodology and first outputs from the Centre's research project, the State of Poverty. This includes two composite stories designed to illuminate the systems surrounding those living in poverty, and the impact of siloed decision making.

Spotlight, Season 6, Episode 2, The State of Poverty: Systems, Silos and Solutions
Spotlight, Season 6, Episode 2, The State of Poverty: Systems, Silos and Solutions

New Spotlight podcast episode marks Challenge Poverty Week

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 15:38:00 BST

9 October 2025: Tune in to a Challenge Poverty Week special episode of the UofG Spotlight podcast episode - The State of Poverty: Systems, Silos and Solutions - that asks, can we really tackle poverty without changing how government works?

A photo of housing in Glasgow, via Canva Pro
A photo of housing in Glasgow, via Canva Pro

Changes to the Housing (Scotland) Bill to enshrine tenancy rights for the terminally ill and recently bereaved

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 15:08:00 BST

9 October 2025: Dr Naomi Richards writes about the direct impact her study, Dying in the Margins, has had on the new Housing (Scotland) Bill, and shares the powerful story of Stacey and Joost that emerged from the study, that helped to drive the amendments to the Bill.

A photo of a busy room at the EGPA conference
A photo of a busy room at the EGPA conference

Vigorously amplifying the mission of learned societies: The time is now!

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 14:56:00 BST

9 October 2025: In an era when 'public servants are being vilified, dehumanized, and used as pawns in an ideological war', Patria de Lancer Julnes - who spoke at the recent EGPA 2025 conference in Glasgow - explores how academic societies are uniquely positioned to create positive change, offering three key actions.

Photo of boy sitting in classroom with teacher in background
Photo of boy sitting in classroom with teacher in background

New report from UofG experts says action needed to 'future-proof' Scottish education

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 16:21:00 BST

7 October 2025: A new report written by Professors Chris Chapman and Graham Donaldson calls for immediate action to ‘future proof’ Scottish education, warning it is facing unprecedented challenges that could affect children’s futures.

A screenshot of Dan Fisher on ITV Representing Border
A screenshot of Dan Fisher on ITV Representing Border

Watch: CPP researcher appears on ITV’s Representing Border

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 15:33:00 BST

2 October 2025: Dr Dan Fisher was interviewed on ITV’s Representing Border programme (1 October), sharing his expertise and insights into immigration policy with journalist Kieran Andrews.

Promo tile for Spotlight season 6 episode 1: Rethinking Health Systems
Promo tile for Spotlight season 6 episode 1: Rethinking Health Systems

UofG Spotlight podcast returns with Scotland's Chief Medical Officer as guest

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 11:28:00 BST

2 October 2025: The UofG Spotlight podcast is back! In this first episode of season 6, we explore the future of Scotland’s health with a focus on prevention, systems change, and the social determinants of health, including an interview with Scotland's Chief Medical Officer Professor Sir Gregor Smith.

A photo of the Scottish Parliament and Hayley Bennett, text reads reflections, Holyrood 2026: The big issues
A photo of the Scottish Parliament and Hayley Bennett, text reads reflections, Holyrood 2026: The big issues

Holyrood 2026: Addressing poverty and inequality must be at the top of the agenda

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 10:16:00 BST

25 September 2025: After joining our 2025 Festival of Politics panel in August, Dr Hayley Bennett shares insights into anti-poverty policymaking ahead of the 2026 Scottish Parliamentary elections. She highlights the need for less party-political policymaking, more radical labour market policies, and the impact of the rise of the right in this area.

A photo of the University of Glasgow main building from Kelvingrove Park
A photo of the University of Glasgow main building from Kelvingrove Park

Centre for Public Policy to discuss child poverty at SNP conference

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 11:04:00 BST

24 September 2025: The Centre for Public Policy is hosting a fringe event at the SNP Annual National Conference in October, focused on child poverty and what more can be done to eradicate it.

A photo of lady justice statue with text that reads Policy Insights
A photo of lady justice statue with text that reads Policy Insights

Policy Insights: Beyond doubt - The case against ‘Not Proven’

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 09:51:00 BST

19 September 2025: In a new Policy Insights piece, Professors James Chalmers, Fiona Leverick, and Vanessa Munro explore the argument they made for abolishing the 'Not Proven' verdict in 2021 - after the Scottish Parliament passed the Bill this week that will abolish it - and crucially what happens next.

A photo of a street in Edinburgh, Scotland
A photo of a street in Edinburgh, Scotland

Beyond the protests: Tracing Scotland’s far right activism

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 12:20:00 BST

18 September 2025: As far-right demonstrations continue across the UK, Dr Judith Sijstermans, University of Aberdeen, looks at the evolving picture of far-right activism in Scotland and the locally-rooted activity and networks that underpin it.

A photo of Alasdair Roberts speaking at the EGPA conference, text reads EGPA Blog Series
A photo of Alasdair Roberts speaking at the EGPA conference, text reads EGPA Blog Series

The temptation and danger of centralisation

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 10:12:00 BST

17 September 2025: Following his contribution at the European Group for Public Administration conference in August, Professor Alasdair Roberts writes about the tendency to lean towards centralisation in moments of crisis - based on his recent research and book project - warning that centralisation 'may be a formula for fragility, not resilience.'

A photo of the Scottish Parliament and Nicola McEwen, text reads Reflections: Holyrood 2026: The big issues
A photo of the Scottish Parliament and Nicola McEwen, text reads Reflections: Holyrood 2026: The big issues

Governing in a fragmented landscape: Reflections from the Festival of Politics

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 11:07:00 BST

15 September 2025: At this year’s Festival of Politics, Professor Nicola McEwen spoke as part of the Centre for Public Policy’s panel exploring the major challenges facing Scotland beyond the 2026 election. She shared her insights on how institutions, relationships, and political culture will shape the next parliamentary term.

A photo of Graeme Roy with the University of Glasgow and Centre for Public Policy logos
A photo of Graeme Roy with the University of Glasgow and Centre for Public Policy logos

Finances weigh on looming Scottish Parliament election

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 10:35:00 BST

15 September 2025: In an article published in The Herald on 8 September 2025, Professor Graeme Roy writes about the Scottish Government's upcoming Spending Review, an opportunity to reset how our public finances are managed and potentially a defining moment in how Scotland prepares to meet the policy and fiscal challenges ahead.

Picture of the panel with audience hand raised
Picture of the panel with audience hand raised

Scotland’s Future Policy Challenges: Insights from the Festival of Politics 2025

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 11:00:00 BST

4 September 2025: The Centre for Public Policy partnered with this year’s Festival of Politics, hosting a forward-looking panel setting out some of the challenges likely to face the new intake of parliamentarians elected next May.

A photo of the EGPA conference slide reading The largest EGPA conference in history, 900+ submissions, 800 participants, 30 tracks
A photo of the EGPA conference slide reading The largest EGPA conference in history, 900+ submissions, 800 participants, 30 tracks

EGPA 2025: A testament to how governments across the world are investing in public administration research

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 09:14:00 BST

10 September 2025: Dr Ian C. Elliott reflects on the success of the recent European Group for Public Administration (EGPA) Conference hosted in Glasgow, and how it illustrated the value of research related to public policy and governance in improving government services and bridging national and institutional divides.

The University of Glasgow cloisters
The University of Glasgow cloisters

Centre for Public Policy colleagues welcomed as Academy of Social Sciences Fellows

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 09:58:00 BST

9 September 2025: Centre for Public Policy colleagues, including Centre Director Professor Nicola McEwen, were announced as Fellows of the Academy of Social Sciences on Monday 8 September.

A photo of Dan Fisher with the University of Glasgow and Centre for Public Policy logo
A photo of Dan Fisher with the University of Glasgow and Centre for Public Policy logo

Why UK needs to treat asylum seekers like Ukrainian refugees to end hotels crisis

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 08:36:00 BST

5 September 2025: In an opinion piece published by The Scotsman on Thursday 4 September, Dr Dan Fisher shares five ways the experience of Ukraine resettlement efforts could help build a fairer, more functional asylum system today, based on his recent research.

A photo of a wall with jigsaw pieces in bright colours painted on it
A photo of a wall with jigsaw pieces in bright colours painted on it

What could integration with refugees look like?

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 13:49:00 BST

1 September 2025: Supporting the publishing of their new book, A Handbook of Integration with Refugees, Professor Alison Phipps, Dr Dan Fisher, and Dr Esa Aldegheri explain what refugee integration is and introduce the handbook, which aims to bring together academics, policymakers, and practitioners working in refugee integration.

A photo of people sitting in a lecture theatre
A photo of people sitting in a lecture theatre

Impact of Policy Schools as an Academic-Policy Engagement Mechanism: Lessons from a pilot year

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 12:15:00 BST

1 September 2025: In a blog originally written for the Universities Policy Engagement Network (UPEN), Dr Sarah Weakley and Kimberley Somerside reflect on the Centre for Public Policy's work in delivering Policy Schools, following their attendance at the UPEN conference in June this year.

A photo of a person taking notes on paper
A photo of a person taking notes on paper

Introducing Independent Legal Representation for Complainers in Scotland: What Can We Learn from Other Jurisdictions?

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 09:17:00 BST

28 August 2025: University of Glasgow researchers have published a new report for the Scottish Government, which identifies how an independent legal representation service for complainers in sexual offence cases in Scotland could be implemented. The service was a commitment made in the Victims, Witnesses, and Justice Reform (Scotland) Bill, which is presently at Stage 3 in the Scottish Parliament.

A decorative graphic banner featuring the Centre for Public Policy marque
A decorative graphic banner featuring the Centre for Public Policy marque

New report examines intergovernmental cooperation and communication during Ukraine resettlement efforts in Scotland

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 14:26:44 BST

27 August 2025: A new briefing from the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (SPICe), written by the Centre for Public Policy's Dr Dan Fisher, examines and offers learnings from the implementation of the Homes for Ukraine and Scottish Super Sponsor Scheme in Scotland.

A photo of the University of Glasgow
A photo of the University of Glasgow

Centre for Public Policy welcomes six policy professionals to new Practice Fellows programme

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 15:08:00 BST

21 August 2025: The University of Glasgow’s Centre for Public Policy has appointed its inaugural cohort of Practice Fellows. Six policy professionals from across UK, Scottish, and local government and the voluntary sector, will spend time at the Centre over the next six months to gain insights into policy questions they face in their roles.

Doctoral Engagement at CPP: A Conference Internship Experience

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 10:02:00 BST

20 August 2025: Ankita Arya (she/her) is completing an MSc in International and Comparative Education at the University of Glasgow. In this blog, she shares her experience as an intern for the Centre for Public Policy, as Doctoral Engagement Lead for the upcoming EGPA 2025 conference in Glasgow.

Marina Bomura summary image
Marina Bomura summary image

Learning Through Policy: Insights from a CPP Evaluation Internship

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 09:16:00 BST

6 August 2025: Marina Bomura (she/her) is completing an MSc Education, Public Policy and Equity at the University of Glasgow. In this blog, she shares her experience as an intern for the Centre for Public Policy as a Policy Evaluation Intern.

Graphic of the political panel at the health inequalities event and the logos of the partners
Graphic of the political panel at the health inequalities event and the logos of the partners

Rethinking Health Inequalities: Convening Scotland’s Changemakers for Health Equity

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 09:31:00 BST

In June, the Centre for Public Policy, in partnership with the College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences and Glasgow Changing Futures, hosted a conference on ‘Rethinking Health Inequalities.' You can read about the sessions and watch our event video here.

A photo of the launch event
A photo of the launch event

The State of Poverty: An Introduction

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 12:04:00 BST

15 July 2025: The Centre launched a new research project The State of Poverty on 23 June 2025. Dr Thomas Rochow shares more about the project, which is exploring how policy siloes shape experiences of poverty in Scotland. By understanding where government structures fail to connect, we aim to find practical ways to break down barriers and build better solutions.

From Sustainability to Policy: Reflections from a CPP Student Intern

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 13:51:00 BST

14 July 2025: Hannah Ulloa (she/her) is completing an MSc in the Earth Futures: Environments, Communities, and Relationships course at the University of Glasgow. In this blog, she shares her experience as an intern for the Centre for Public Policy.

Graphic for the leadership school
Graphic for the leadership school

Centre for Public Policy begins its first leadership programme for UK civil servants

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 10:31:00 BST

4 July 2024: Transforming Leadership for Productive and Agile Government: Centre for Public Policy Begins its first Leadership Programme with the Cabinet Office

Festival of Politics logo
Festival of Politics logo

Looking Ahead: The Centre for Public Policy at the Festival of Politics 2025

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 10:16:00 BST

1 July 2025: The Centre for Public Policy is delighted to be taking part in this year’s Scottish Parliament Festival of Politics, bringing vital research and ideas from the University of Glasgow to the heart of national debate. Our event 'Holyrood 2026: The Big Issues' marks the beginning of the Centre's Scottish Parliament election work.

Revising the Green Book

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 14:56:00 BST

18 June 2025: In this piece, Honorary Professor in the Adam Smith Business School and Emeritus Professor of Economics at the University of Stirling Dr David Bell explains how recent changes to the UK Treasury’s Green Book aim to prioritise investment based on regional needs rather than just cost-benefit analysis, potentially shifting funding away from the South-East and influencing how projects are assessed across the UK, including in Scotland.

Graphic with Anton and blog title
Graphic with Anton and blog title

The 2025 Spending Review Big Picture: A Difficult Macroeconomic Balancing Act

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 10:03:00 BST

16 June 2025: In this blog Prof. Sir Anton Muscatelli provides an overview of the UK Government’s 2025 Spending Review, highlighting macroeconomic and political challenges. He explains that while the plans do not represent a return to austerity, they are constrained by slow growth and global uncertainties. The review front-loads spending increases in health, defence, and housing, but raises difficult questions about long-term sustainability, tax policy, and political feasibility.

A photo of Loch Lomond in Scotland
A photo of Loch Lomond in Scotland

Flamingo Land: another case of planning’s democratic deficit?

Wed, 28 May 2025 16:13:00 BST

29 May 2025: After an announcement that a Scottish Government reporter intends to grant permission for the holiday park at Loch Lomond, Professor Mark Stephens writes about the democracy of planning decisions, reflecting on his role in a successful campaign against a quarry in New Lanark, and the question of whether planning is political.

A photo of two women walking along a road in Balochistan, Pakistan
A photo of two women walking along a road in Balochistan, Pakistan

Could Pakistan renew nuclear testing in South Asia?

Wed, 28 May 2025 10:14:00 BST

28 May 2025: On 14 May 2025, Balochistan declared independence from Pakistan against the backdrop of geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan. Professor Jay Sarkar examines whether this could spur Pakistan on to renew nuclear weapons testing in the region, where Islamabad had tested six nuclear weapons in May 1998. What could be the causes and implications for such an action by Pakistan?

A photo of the inside of the Scottish Parliament chamber
A photo of the inside of the Scottish Parliament chamber

How do lived experience perspectives impact decisions in the Scottish Parliamentary process?

Mon, 19 May 2025 09:39:00 BST

19 May 2025: As lived experience becomes an increasingly important part of the policymaking process in the Scottish Parliament, Dr Clementine Hill O'Connor writes about her current research which examines how this form of evidence is used in practice and how it influences policy decision making.

Spotlight artwork
Spotlight artwork

New Spotlight Podcast Episode Unpacks the UK Government’s Immigration White Paper

Fri, 16 May 2025 12:37:00 BST

16 May 2025: In this episode of Spotlight, hosts Nicola McEwen and Kezia Dugdale are joined by Professors Nasar Meer and Sergi Pardos-Prado from the University of Glasgow to unpack the UK Government’s Immigration White Paper.

A photo of Bettyhill, Thurso, there are houses in the foreground and a sea bay in the background
A photo of Bettyhill, Thurso, there are houses in the foreground and a sea bay in the background

Do post-pandemic policies support green recovery?

Thu, 15 May 2025 11:33:00 BST

15 May 2025: David Clelland and Fabrice Renaud from the School of Social and Environmental Sustainability share insights from their research on how policies for post-pandemic recovery balanced economic, social and environmental goals, and what this might mean for future approaches to promoting sustainable development.

Blog graphic
Blog graphic

Programme for Government: puts poverty front and centre — but can it go far enough?

Fri, 09 May 2025 13:10:00 BST

9 May 2025: The Scottish Government’s 2025–26 Programme for Government (PfG) sets out its latest promises and priorities. At the heart of this year’s plan is a continued focus on tackling poverty especially in the face of rising living costs and growing pressures on family budgets. But what does the PfG say and crucially how will it be implemented?

graphic on blog
graphic on blog

Programme for Government: Scrutinising the Plan for General Practice

Wed, 07 May 2025 13:01:00 BST

7 May 2025 Dr David Blane examines the Scottish Government’s 2025–26 Programme for Government health pledges, focusing on new GP appointment plans and growing concerns around access and investment in general practice.

PFG graphic
PFG graphic

Programme for Government: Closing the Gender Gap in Scottish Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Wed, 07 May 2025 10:25:00 BST

7 May 2025: Dr Saurabh Lall provides a Quick Insight on the First Minister's Programme for Government and the policy needed to close the gender gap in Scottish Entrepreneurship and Innovation.

A photo of jury seats in a courtroom
A photo of jury seats in a courtroom

Reviewing the evidence on rape myths and jury decision making

Tue, 06 May 2025 09:29:00 BST

6 May 2025: Fiona Leverick, James Chalmers, Eamon Keane and Jacqueline Kinghan from the University of Glasgow's School of Law write about the evidence on rape myths and jury decision making and how these can be addressed in the courtroom.

Text reads every human has rights
Text reads every human has rights

Today’s Lesson: Human Rights, Disability and Welfare Reform

Fri, 02 May 2025 15:36:00 BST

2 May 2025: Following announcements of proposed cuts to disability welfare in the UK, Dr Paul Pearson and Professor Jo Edson Ferrie examine the impact of this from a human rights perspective, writing 'by integrating human rights and equalities, we see both what is wrong with the world - inequalities - while also considering remedies to access justice'.

A photo of the Child Poverty and Public Debt Crisis conference with a play button symbol
A photo of the Child Poverty and Public Debt Crisis conference with a play button symbol

Watch - Child poverty and Scotland’s public debt crisis

Thu, 01 May 2025 11:27:14 BST

1 May 2025: A new video shares insights from the recent national conference on child poverty and public debt in Scotland, co-hosted by the Centre for Public Policy and Aberlour Children’s Charity, and how the Centre is creating space to talk about and find solutions to challenging policy issues.

graphic for the event
graphic for the event

Rethinking Health Inequalities: A Call for Action and Collaboration

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 08:59:00 BST

29 April 2025: Join the Centre for Public Policy and colleagues at the wider University of Glasgow for a conference to discuss how we build evidence-based policies that create real, lasting impact on Scotland’s health outcomes

Evaluation Hub
Evaluation Hub

An evaluation of policy changes to childcare provision in Edinburgh

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 12:43:00 BST

22 April 2025: The newly established Evaluation Hub at the Centre for Public Policy is undertaking an evaluation of a change to early learning and childcare provision in Edinburgh of behalf of the charity, Pregnant Then Screwed.

A photo of the Downing Street street sign
A photo of the Downing Street street sign

Unpicking the changes to disability support for young disabled people across the UK

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 16:08:00 BST

11 April 2025: Professor Charlotte Pearson and Professor Nick Watson from Urban Studies and Social Policy and the Centre for Disability Research write about changes to disability support in the UK, particularly the proposed withdrawal of Employment Support Allowance (ESA) for under 22-year-olds and the likely impact of this on young disabled people.

A photo of the book cover, Political Change Across Britain and Ireland – Identities, Institutions and Futures edited by Paul Gillespie, Michael Keating and Nicola McEwen
A photo of the book cover, Political Change Across Britain and Ireland – Identities, Institutions and Futures edited by Paul Gillespie, Michael Keating and Nicola McEwen

A reappraisal of the constitutional realities in Britain and Ireland at a time of seismic change

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 11:40:00 BST

8 April 2025: A new book, co-edited by Centre Director Professor Nicola McEwen, Political Change Across Britain and Ireland: Identities, Institutions and Futures is a ‘reappraisal of the constitutional realities in Britain and Ireland at a time of seismic change'.

A timelapse photo of the UK Parliament building with car lights blurring past
A timelapse photo of the UK Parliament building with car lights blurring past

UK Government going full steam ahead with AI but left the people behind

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 14:22:00 GMT

24 March 2025: As Prime Minister Keir Starmer announces an increase in artificial intelligence (AI) use in the civil service, Dr Mark Wong examines the UK's approach to AI. Drawing on his research, he reflects that UK policy lags behind in developing responsible AI – a missed opportunity and a risk of potentially ‘dire consequences’, if it does not centre the voices, needs, and actions of people most impacted by AI harms.

A photo of the University of Glasgow Cloisters
A photo of the University of Glasgow Cloisters

Applications open for Research Associate post at the Centre for Public Policy

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 11:10:00 BST

7 April 2025: The University of Glasgow’s Centre for Public Policy is inviting applications for a Research Associate with an expertise in economic policy, with applications closing on 15 May.

A photo of the an oil rig in the Beatrice field
A photo of the an oil rig in the Beatrice field

The Energy that Made Modern Scotland

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 15:06:00 BST

3 April 2025: Dr Ewan Gibbs introduces his new podcast The Energy that Made Modern Scotland, co-hosted with UofG colleague Dr Dominic Hinde, which brings to life the story of North Sea energy through archive clips, expert interviews and academic analysis.

A decorative graphic banner featuring the Centre for Public Policy marque
A decorative graphic banner featuring the Centre for Public Policy marque

Centre for Public Policy launches Practice Fellow scheme for policy professionals

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 14:58:00 BST

2 April 2025: The University of Glasgow’s Centre for Public Policy (CPP) is now accepting applications for its first cohort of Practice Fellows, an opportunity for policy professionals to spend approximately 20 hours over six months working with the Centre to access academic insights into policy questions they face in their roles.

A photo of Ken Thomson with the Centre for Public Policy and University of Glasgow logos
A photo of Ken Thomson with the Centre for Public Policy and University of Glasgow logos

Honorary Professor elected as Academy of Social Sciences Fellow

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 09:01:00 BST

2 April 2025: Centre for Public Policy Honorary Professor Ken Thomson has been elected as a Fellow of the prestigious Academy of Social Sciences.

The UK Parliament
The UK Parliament

How might young people be affected by the cuts to welfare?

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 10:17:00 GMT

28 March 2025: Following the Chancellor’s Spring Statement this week, the Centre for Public Policy’s Dr Thomas Rochow examines how proposed cuts to health-related benefits might acutely impact young people, writing that more should be done to recognise that it is increasingly difficult for young people to enter meaningful employment.

A photo of the political panel at the event, hosted by Kezia Dugdale
A photo of the political panel at the event, hosted by Kezia Dugdale

Public debt and child poverty crisis addressed at national conference

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 10:59:00 GMT

26 March 2025: Scotland’s public debt crisis and its impact on child poverty was addressed at a national conference on Monday 17 March 2025, hosted by Aberlour Children’s Charity and the University of Glasgow’s Centre for Public Policy.

A photo of the US White House
A photo of the US White House

Cooperation in Crisis (Part Two): How should the aid sector respond?

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 09:15:00 GMT

14 March 2025: Following their blog earlier this week into the impact of US aid agency shutdowns, Professor Bernhard Reinsberg, Dr Cecilia Corsini, and Dr Giuseppe Zaccaria explore how the aid sector should respond, sharing their research insights into public perceptions of foreign aid, and the need for a change in approach to aid built on trust and equal partnership.

A photo from the back of a busy lecture room with Nicola and Kez presenting at the front
A photo from the back of a busy lecture room with Nicola and Kez presenting at the front

Centre for Public Policy brings conversations on public finances and social security to Scottish Labour and SCVO conferences

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 17:46:37 GMT

13 March 2025: In February 2025, the Centre for Public Policy was out and about, hosting events at the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) conference the Gathering and the Scottish Labour Party Conference, discussing social security and public finances in Scotland.

A photo of the US White House
A photo of the US White House

Cooperation in Crisis (Part one): The impact of US aid agency shutdowns

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 15:52:00 GMT

10 March 2025: The decision by the new US administration to shut down its development agency sent shockwaves around the world. Professor Bernhard Reinsberg, Dr Cecilia Corsini, and Dr Giuseppe Zaccaria write about the 'dire' consequences of the cuts, not only for beneficiary countries and global development, but also for the rule of law and democracy in the US.

A photo of shipping containers at Felixstowe, Suffolk, UK
A photo of shipping containers at Felixstowe, Suffolk, UK

US trade tariff impacts on the UK: The economy, ‘national security’ and Europe

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 15:35:00 GMT

24 February 2025: What do recent tariff announcements on trade from new US President Trump mean for the UK? Dr Maha Rafi Atal, Senior Lecturer in Political Economy, breaks down the economic impact of the tariffs on the UK, it’s backing of the Trump administration’s ‘national security’ argument for tariffs, and potential consequences for UK-Europe relations.

A photo of a slihouette of children playing
A photo of a slihouette of children playing

Scrapping Universal Credit’s two-child limit in Scotland: A small price to pay for those deepest in poverty

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 12:35:00 GMT

20 February 2025: The Scottish Government announced in December 2024 that it will mitigate the impact of the two-child limit, which according to the Joseph Rowntree Foundation would lift 10,000 children out of poverty if implemented today. In this blog, Dr Sarah Weakley explores the policy and details why this is a change long overdue.

A photo of the inside of the German Parliament, Bundestag
A photo of the inside of the German Parliament, Bundestag

At a glance: Your guide to the 2025 German federal election

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 14:51:00 GMT

20 February 2025: With the federal elections in Germany days away and the rise of populist radical right party Alternative for Germany (AfD) dominating media reports, Dr Petar Bankov examines what might happen in the elections and what the incoming German government might look like after Sunday’s vote.

Person with notebook and calculator and money at desk
Person with notebook and calculator and money at desk

Marginal Tax Rates, Cliff-Edges and Devolution

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 09:21:00 GMT

18 February 2025: Professor Graeme Roy writes for the Centre for Public Policy blog, exploring the unintended consequences of overlapping devolved and reserved decisions on taxation and social security.

A photo of Graeme Roy with the University of Glasgow and Centre for Public Policy logos
A photo of Graeme Roy with the University of Glasgow and Centre for Public Policy logos

Tired narrative speaks to narrow view of UK prosperity

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 12:16:00 GMT

Following a major speech from Chancellor Rachel Reeves, Professor Graeme Roy writes about the ‘tired narrative’ of economic growth, originally published in The Herald on 10 February 2025.

conference title
conference title

Upcoming Conference: Tackling Child Poverty Through Public Debt Reform

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 13:05:00 GMT

28 January 2025: The Centre for Public Policy at the University of Glasgow, in partnership with Aberlour Children’s Charity, is hosting a national conference dedicated to addressing child poverty through public debt reform.

A photo of the debating chamber in the Scottish Parliament
A photo of the debating chamber in the Scottish Parliament

New report on revising the Scottish Parliament and Government’s Written Agreement on Intergovernmental Relations

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 15:40:00 GMT

27 January 2025: A new report by Professor Nicola McEwen and Dr Coree Brown Swan recommends that a review of the Scottish Government-Scottish Parliament Written Agreement on Intergovernmental Relations should seek to strike a better balance between confidentiality and transparency, to strengthen the ability of the Scottish Parliament to hold government to account.

A photo of solar panels with someone drilling
A photo of solar panels with someone drilling

Where are the Women in the UK’s Green Energy Transition?

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 10:06:00 GMT

22 January 2025: Dr Hannah Salamon examines the unaddressed challenge on the path to net zero of gender inequality in the green energy sector and the problems this could present for the workforce

Image of a sunrise and wind turbines on hills in Scotland
Image of a sunrise and wind turbines on hills in Scotland

What does Electricity Market Reform mean for Scotland?

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 10:13:00 GMT

15 January 2025: Dr Nicholas Harrington examines the UK government's recent consultation on electricity market reform, the options that are still under consideration such as zonal pricing, and the impact those reform options might have on consumers.

A promo image for The Gathering - we're a Gathering event host - book now!
A promo image for The Gathering - we're a Gathering event host - book now!

Centre to explore how Scotland's finances stifle impactful public policy ambitions 

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 15:16:00 GMT

10 January 2025: The University of Glasgow’s Centre for Public Policy is hosting an event to discuss Scotland’s finances and public policy at the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations’ (SCVO) annual conference the Gathering, on Tuesday 4 February 2025.

A photo of Dr Sarah Weakley addressing a crowded room at the University
A photo of Dr Sarah Weakley addressing a crowded room at the University

How to mobilise research to strengthen climate scrutiny in the Scottish Parliament

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 16:34:00 GMT

16 December 2024: Dr Dan Barlow and Dr Sarah Weakley share key learnings from the Centre’s recent event with the Scottish Parliament Information Centre on how research evidence can strengthen climate scrutiny in the Scottish Parliament, and more about the Parliament’s forthcoming Climate Change Plan.

graphic with CPP, UofG and Robertson Trust logo
graphic with CPP, UofG and Robertson Trust logo

Centre for Public Policy secures funding for major anti-poverty project

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 10:59:00 GMT

16 December 2024: Funded by the Robertson Trust, the 18-month project will assess poverty in Scotland as a multi-level, multi-sector grand policy challenge, detailing the impact of siloed decision making on people living with poverty and use an innovative policy lab approach to drive solutions.

A photo of the roundtable discussion led by Dr Claire MacRae
A photo of the roundtable discussion led by Dr Claire MacRae

Centre for Public Policy convenes roundtable to discuss Innovation Districts

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 12:13:00 GMT

12 December 2024: In November, the Centre for Public Policy brought together academics, national and local government to discuss Innovation Districts and a new report from the International Public Policy Observatory (IPPO) that outlines how Innovation Districts can create economic growth.

A photo of the School of Law building in Professor's Square
A photo of the School of Law building in Professor's Square

Criminal justice, legal reform and devolution: Juryless trials and the Victims, Witnesses & Criminal Justice Reform (Scotland) Bill

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 09:47:00 GMT

10 December 2024: Eamon Keane, Lecturer in Criminal Evidence and Procedure, and Principal Solicitor and Co-Director of the University's Emma Ritch Law Clinic, writes about the Victims, Witnesses, and Justice Reform (Scotland) Bill currently going through the Scottish Parliament, what it tells us about the process of criminal justice reform in Scotland post-devolution and the role of academic research in that process.

A photo of the outside of the Scottish Parliament building
A photo of the outside of the Scottish Parliament building

Upward revisions reflect a somewhat more positive outlook for Scotland

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 14:48:00 GMT

10 December 2024: In an article published on 9 December by The Herald newspaper, Professor Graeme Roy explores the details of the 2025/26 Scottish Budget announced last week and the broader economic picture in Scotland.

An image showing a sketch of a court room
An image showing a sketch of a court room

Learning from asylum appeals across Europe

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 11:20:00 GMT

9 December 2024: Dr Dan Fisher introduces his new co-authored book, Inside Asylum Appeals, which draws on observation of hundreds of asylum appeals across Europe. Included are policy and practice recommendations for legal professionals and other stakeholders.

A photo of Sarah Davidson with the Centre for Public Policy and Carnegie UK logos
A photo of Sarah Davidson with the Centre for Public Policy and Carnegie UK logos

Mission-led government is magical thinking without reform, warns report

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 11:34:00 GMT

4 December 2024: A new paper from Carnegie UK, in association with the Centre for Public Policy, suggests that the UK Government’s mission-based policy approach should learn lessons from the mixed success of reforms in public administration in Scotland and Wales.

A photo of a downward pointing arrow painted on a pavement
A photo of a downward pointing arrow painted on a pavement

Tackling declining life expectancy in the UK caused by austerity

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 10:04:00 GMT

29 November 2024: Against the backdrop of the recent UK Budget and the upcoming Scottish Budget, Professor Gerry McCartney and Dr David Walsh explain how austerity has caused a decline in life expectancy in the UK since the early 2010's and set out the policies and responses needed to reverse the situation.

A photo of Glasgow across the Clyde at night
A photo of Glasgow across the Clyde at night

The 2024 Budget and regional productivity

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 14:25:00 GMT

18 November 2024: Originally published by The Productivity Institute, Professor Graeme Roy, Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli, and Dr David Waite write a policy brief on what the 2024 Budget means for regional growth and productivity, and the policy changes needed to solve the UK’s regional productivity inequalities.

A photo of Dan in front of the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (SPICe) information board
A photo of Dan in front of the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (SPICe) information board

Centre for Public Policy academic appointed as Fellow to prestigious Scottish Parliament scheme

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 11:05:00 GMT

7 November 2024: Research Associate Dr Dan Fisher will explore Scotland’s response to the integration of people forced to flee Ukraine as a Fellow in the Scottish Parliament’s Academic Fellowship Scheme, based in the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (SPICe).

Profile of Anton Muscatelli and CPP Logo
Profile of Anton Muscatelli and CPP Logo

The US Presidential Election and the potential for Trade Wars

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 16:05:37 GMT

6 November 2024: University of Glasgow Principal and Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli writes about the results of the 2024 US Presidential Election, warns of the potential for future trade wars, and notes it is now imperative that the UK re-evaluates its alignment with the EU as a large trading bloc.

The UK Parliament
The UK Parliament

Westminster rules? The UK Internal Market Act and devolution

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 11:58:00 BST

22 October 2024: In this blog, Nicola McEwen, Thomas Horsley, Coree Brown Swan and Lisa Claire Whitten outline the findings of their recent report on the operation and impact of the UK Internal Market Act, suggesting that changes will need to be made if Starmer wants to meaningfully reset relations with the devolved governments.

Festival of Politics Artwork
Festival of Politics Artwork

Director of the Centre for Public Policy speaks at the Festival of Politics

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 15:08:00 BST

15 October 2024: Prof. Nicola McEwen spoke on a panel at the Scottish Parliament's Festival of Politics in August about the 50 elections happening across the world this year and the implications for geopolitics, human rights, economies, and international relations.

coins falling from a jar
coins falling from a jar

Local Government Fiscal Constraint in Scotland: Risk and Resilience

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 14:11:00 BST

15 October 2024: Read this note from a Centre for Public Policy roundtable with government, the voluntary sector and academic expertise on risk and resilience in communities under a challenging fiscal context.

Image from Library of Congress via Upsplash
Image from Library of Congress via Upsplash

Climate Policy and the US Presidential Election

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 13:27:00 BST

10 October 2024: Dr Hannah Salamon, Research Associate at the Centre for Public Policy, outlines the importance of climate policy in the US Presidential race. This timely blog compares the record of both candidates and looks to the future of climate policy in America.

A mockup of the report cover on a blue background, text reads Westminster Rules? The United Kingdom Internal Market Act and Devolution
A mockup of the report cover on a blue background, text reads Westminster Rules? The United Kingdom Internal Market Act and Devolution

New Report: Westminster Rules? United Kingdom Internal Market Act and Devolution

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 15:16:00 BST

3 October 2024: This impartial analysis of the context, content and operational impact of the UKIMA brings together leading academics from the Universities of Glasgow, Liverpool, Stirling and Queens University Belfast and offers pragmatic policy ideas that could lead to a new, more consensual way forward.

An image of the front cover of the report, reading Scotland and the Constitution: Agreeing a way forward
An image of the front cover of the report, reading Scotland and the Constitution: Agreeing a way forward

New Report: Scotland and the Constitution: Agreeing a way forward

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 10:26:00 BST

25 September 2024: Co-authored by Prof. Kezia Dugdale, Associate Director and Stephen Noon, Research Associate, this report marks both the 10th Anniversary of the Independence Referendum and 25th Anniversary of the Scottish Parliament.

Profile of Anton Muscatelli and CPP Logo
Profile of Anton Muscatelli and CPP Logo

How to Revise the UK’s Fiscal Rules to Avoid Under-Investment

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 19:04:00 BST

24 September 2024: Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli sets out why our current fiscal rules in the UK penalise investment and will hinder the Labour Government's growth mission.

A photo of the debating chamber in the Scottish Parliament
A photo of the debating chamber in the Scottish Parliament

Scotland’s Human Rights Bill: A promise unfulfilled

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 10:56:00 BST

9 September 2024: Centre for Public Policy Senior Fellow Professor Nicole Busby writes about the omission of the anticipated Human Rights Bill from the Scottish Government's Programme for Government announced last week.

Crowne Plaza Hotel, SECC Armadillo, Hydro and Finnieston Crane, pictured beside the River Clyde
Crowne Plaza Hotel, SECC Armadillo, Hydro and Finnieston Crane, pictured beside the River Clyde

Local growth plans must reach City regions across the UK’s nations

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 09:35:00 BST

5 September 2024: In an article published in The Times on Friday 30 August, Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli and Professor Graeme Roy write that the Westminster government must include all nations in its plans for local growth, with a focus on skills and innovation.

An arial shot of an area of housing in the UK
An arial shot of an area of housing in the UK

Can planning reform alone lead to a step-change in outcomes?

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 10:52:00 BST

25 July 2024: Centre for Public Policy Research Associate Dr Rob Richardson writes about the new UK Government's plans to 'get Britain building', reflecting on Scotland's recent experience of planning reform.

A rainy photo of Buchanan Street in Glasgow with text reading Policy Insights, UK General Election 2024
A rainy photo of Buchanan Street in Glasgow with text reading Policy Insights, UK General Election 2024

How Glasgow Voted in the 2024 UK General Election

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 17:04:00 BST

Policy Insight: Mark McGeoghegan delves into the details of the University of Glasgow’s home city’s voting results, examining the extent of Labour’s success in Glasgow and the nuanced story behind the results.

A photo of the Houses of Parliament building in London
A photo of the Houses of Parliament building in London

A General Election reset for the Union?

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 07:00:00 BST

Policy Insights: Professor Nicola McEwen writes about the future of devolution and whether Labour's 'change' manifesto promises a new, more collaborative approach.

An arial view photo of people forming a line
An arial view photo of people forming a line

Forced migration and the backlog of asylum decisions

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 15:17:00 BST

Policy Insights: Dr Dan Fisher writes about the current backlog of asylum decisions and discusses the plans presented by the major parties to tackle it.

Children on the horizon
Children on the horizon

Children’s rights require political leadership

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 10:26:00 BST

Policy Insights: Professor Bruce Adamson writes about children's rights in the election campaigns and the need for the next UK Government to take action to place children at the heart of policy making

Adam Smith Business School image
Adam Smith Business School image

Devolution and plans for Economic Growth – need for fresh thinking after the election

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 08:00:00 BST

Policy Insights: Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli writes about the parties competing visions for growth and the need for fresh thinking around the devolution settlement

A black and white photo of a refinery
A black and white photo of a refinery

This is an Energy Election

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 12:07:00 BST

Policy Insights: Dr Ewan Gibbs writes about the salience of energy policy in this election and how workers feel about the parties' pledges

Refugee Festival Scotland
Refugee Festival Scotland

Of kings, milk, sugar and saris: The importance of reclaiming the narrative through Refugee Festival Scotland

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 10:00:00 BST

In this blog post, Dr Dan Fisher discusses the role of narrative in the context of refugee integration and a General Election focused on border control.

A photo of houses against a sunset backdrop
A photo of houses against a sunset backdrop

For new towns to contribute significantly to housing supply, design and delivery must both be right

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 17:50:00 BST

Policy Insights: Dr Rob Richardson writes about the design and delivery of new towns and what lessons the next government should learn from previous policy decisions when tackling the housing crisis

A colourful illustration of a figure in a wheelchair facing two sets of stairs
A colourful illustration of a figure in a wheelchair facing two sets of stairs

Transitions into adulthood for young disabled people: Policy dialogue for a new government

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 11:47:00 BST

Policy Insights: Dr Charlotte Pearson and colleagues write about the transition into adulthood for young disabled people, current manifesto commitments, and the need for a holistic approach to policymaking across all levels of government.

Promotional graphic for Spotlight: On the election with photos of the hosts Kezia Dugdale, Nicola McEwen and Graeme Roy
Promotional graphic for Spotlight: On the election with photos of the hosts Kezia Dugdale, Nicola McEwen and Graeme Roy

New podcast series delves into key policy issues of the UK General Election campaign

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 10:25:00 BST

A new series of the UofG Spotlight podcast from the Centre for Public Policy is shining a light on the policy issues, the parties, key battlegrounds and events of the UK General Election, bringing you expert insights from the University of Glasgow and beyond.

Dr Elliott giving evidence
Dr Elliott giving evidence

Dr Ian C. Elliott gives evidence to the Scottish Parliament on the Commissioners Landscape

Sat, 01 Jun 2024 11:33:00 BST

Senior Lecturer at the Centre for Public Policy gives evidence to the Finance and Public Administration Committee as part of its Inquiry on Scotland's Commissioner Landscape: A Strategic Approach

Exterior of Scottish Parliament building
Exterior of Scottish Parliament building

Reflections on 25 years of devolution in Scotland

Fri, 31 May 2024 11:10:00 BST

As the Scottish Parliament turns 25, we consider its evolution and place in public life in Scotland. Recent reforms both to the devolution settlement and to UK territorial governance present new challenges to the devolved institutions that could constrain policy ambition in the years to come.

The Scottish Parliament building
The Scottish Parliament building

Devolution and centralisation: The impact of devolution on local government

Fri, 31 May 2024 10:57:00 BST

Dr Claire MacRae writes for the International Public Policy Observatory (IPPO) about the impact of devolution on local government

A photo of wind turbines on a hill against a vibrant sunset
A photo of wind turbines on a hill against a vibrant sunset

The abandoning of carbon targets shows the dissonance in Scotland’s much-vaunted climate success story

Wed, 15 May 2024 14:41:00 BST

Dr Dominic Hinde writes about the disparity between Scotland's climate policy aspirations and outcomes, informed by his work exploring what Scotland's energy and climate change story looks like on the ground.

The Houses of Parliament viewed from across the River Thames
The Houses of Parliament viewed from across the River Thames

Positive Public Policy – A New Vision for UK Government

Tue, 14 May 2024 15:50:00 BST

Centre for Public Policy Senior Lecturer Ian Elliott has co-written a piece for the Academy of Social Sciences on how Positive Public Policy (PoPP) can drive performance improvements, save money, foster early interventions, align networks, and build capacity and momentum for more effective government.

Policy Insights
Policy Insights

Policy Insights: What’s landing on the First Minister’s desk?

Tue, 07 May 2024 20:51:00 BST

Part One: As the Scottish Parliament elects John Swinney as the new First Minister, we ask Prof. Christopher Carman about the electoral challenges ahead for the SNP.

Policy Insights
Policy Insights

Policy Insights: What’s landing on the First Minister’s desk?

Tue, 07 May 2024 21:17:00 BST

Part Two: As the Scottish Parliament elects John Swinney as the new First Minister, we ask key voices from across the University about the policy challenges his new Cabinet will be facing.

Nicola McEwen
Nicola McEwen

Professor Nicola McEwen speaks to Good Morning Scotland about the motion of no confidence in the First Minister

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 09:45:00 BST

Professor Nicola McEwen, Director of the Centre for Public Policy, spoke to Good Morning Scotland’s Andrew Black about the Scottish Greens decision to back the Scottish Conservative’s motion of no confidence in the First Minister.

A close-up photo of a person taking money out of a wallet
A close-up photo of a person taking money out of a wallet

Fiscal constraint and budgetary decision-making  

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 14:18:00 BST

The Spring Budget confirmed limited growth to devolved government budgets. Dr Claire MacRae, Senior Lecturer at the Centre for Public Policy, explores the impacts this might have on budgetary decision making.

Chris Stark
Chris Stark

Centre Honorary Professor makes major intervention on climate change

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 13:24:00 BST

Honorary Professor Chris Stark spoke to Laura Kuenssberg about the Scottish Government’s decision to scrap climate change targets

A collage image featuring portrait photos of the ten members of the Advisory Board. Top row L-R: Sir John Elvidge, Professor Anand Menon, Lord Andrew Dunlop, Dr Audrey MacDougall, Joyce White OBE. Bottom row L-R: Ken Macintosh, Linda Hanna MBE, Liz Ditchburn, Theresa Shearer, Zainab Kizilbash Agha
A collage image featuring portrait photos of the ten members of the Advisory Board. Top row L-R: Sir John Elvidge, Professor Anand Menon, Lord Andrew Dunlop, Dr Audrey MacDougall, Joyce White OBE. Bottom row L-R: Ken Macintosh, Linda Hanna MBE, Liz Ditchburn, Theresa Shearer, Zainab Kizilbash Agha

Centre for Public Policy announces inaugural Advisory Board

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 15:21:00 BST

The Centre for Public Policy’s Advisory Board harnesses experience in policymaking from across political parties, governments, disciplines and sectors.

workshop task
workshop task

How can place-based solutions help deliver a just transition?

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 15:33:00 BST

In this blog Hannah and Rob reflect on their experience as participants in the British Academy's Where We Live Next policy insight workshop

Presenters Clapping
Presenters Clapping

Centre for Public Policy hosts Policy School on Data and AI with the Cabinet Office

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 15:05:00 BST

The Centre for Public Policy hosted the Cabinet Office for a Policy School on Data and AI in March. We heard expertise from across the University, including a visit to see how AI is being used in cancer research and diagnosis.

Room of people
Room of people

Engaging with UK Parliament: top tips from our development day for researchers

Sat, 06 Apr 2024 14:38:00 BST

Read Sarah's blog on a recent development day for engaging with the UK Parliament

A rainy photo of people walking on Buchanan Street in Glasgow city centre
A rainy photo of people walking on Buchanan Street in Glasgow city centre

Local authorities and fiscal sustainability: the value of evidence

Sun, 24 Mar 2024 10:45:00 GMT

In collaboration with the International Public Policy Observatory, the Centre for Public Policy is exploring how local authorities are responding to the challenge of fiscal constraint. This work will pay close attention to how these issues are playing out in the UK’s devolved nations.

A photo taken from the back of classroom, showing the backs of students sitting at desks and the teach at the front of the room
A photo taken from the back of classroom, showing the backs of students sitting at desks and the teach at the front of the room

New paper outlines radical vision for Scottish education reform led by the classroom

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 16:05:00 GMT

Experts at the University of Glasgow and the Centre for Public Policy have set out a radical vision that places schools and teachers at the centre of education reform.

Caroline Gardner
Caroline Gardner

Former Auditor General for Scotland appointed Honorary Professor at the Centre for Public Policy

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 12:00:00 GMT

Caroline Gardner CBE joins the growing team at the Centre for Public Policy as an Honorary Professor

Kezia Dugdale
Kezia Dugdale

News: Kezia Dugdale joins leadership of Centre for Public Policy

Sun, 10 Mar 2024 12:00:00 GMT

Kezia Dugdale will take on the role of Associate Director in the newly established team, working alongside the Centre’s inaugural Director, Professor Nicola McEwen.

Ariel Heart
Ariel Heart

New Scots Refugee Integration Strategy 2024: Three challenges

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 15:58:00 GMT

Dan Fisher explores the work still to be done to support refugee integration in Scotland

Students
Students

Women Matter: The importance of the Gendered Lens in politics, governance, and the climate crisis

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 15:58:00 GMT

Hannah Salamon explores the role of gender in the climate crisis and political research.

The Cloisters
The Cloisters

News: John Swinney and Ken Thomson appointed Honorary Professors at the Centre for Public Policy

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 15:58:00 GMT

Scotland’s former Deputy First Minister, John Swinney, has been appointed as an Honorary Professor of the University of Glasgow’s Centre for Public Policy.

Head and shoulder photos of Sarah Davidson and Chris Stark with a University of Glasgow logo in the centre
Head and shoulder photos of Sarah Davidson and Chris Stark with a University of Glasgow logo in the centre

News: UK Climate Change Chief joins new Centre for Public Policy

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 15:58:00 GMT

Chris Stark and Sarah Davidson have been appointed as an Honorary Professors of the University of Glasgow’s Centre for Public Policy.

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