Deliverable 2.1: Network of networks

This deliverable describes the methodological approach for the network and stakeholder selection for setting up an online network of networks for the Forum and Observatory. The names of the stakeholders are on a protected online registry and can only be accessed by project partners with permission. The report examines five main features of RRI networks: the main actors, the theoretical structures, the funding sources, the dissemination structures, and the possibility of expanding RRI beyond the European context. Six main actor groups in RRI networks are distinguished: national governments; regional governments; international governmental organisations; civil society actors; businesses, scientific research projects, and policy researchers. Although RRI has emerged recently as a theoretical approach, the number of definitions of the concept has proliferated quite rapidly - as is shown in the discussion of RRI theories later in this deliverable. In terms of constructing a network, this raises something of a dilemma. At present, the main sources of funding for RRI networks and projects have been regional (i.e. EU) and national government funding bodies with some extra support from independent research bodies and foundations. Some RRI projects have succeeded in obtaining funding from businesses and private sources - obtaining such funding seems vital for the long term sustainability of the Forum and Observatory. Existing dissemination structures for RRI are the funding streams for RRI, in addition to online sources such as blogs and forums, and conferences. It is argued that such structures are potentially effective but need more co-ordination and a focus in an overarching structure to avoid fragmentation. Increasing attention is being paid to the possibility of expanding RRI beyond the European context - for example, through governance structures at the global level in the Progress project. Given that RRI is still an emergent concept and is not clearly defined [1] there is currently room to address a range of different conceptions from both within and beyond the European context - this is something that may need to be taken into account in the design of the forum.