Evidence-Based Practice in Development Policy

Turning Research into Real-World Impact

Building Policy on a Foundation of Proven Results

Effective development policy demands more than good intentions it requires rigorous evidence, tested approaches, and measurable results. This pillar focuses on translating academic research into practical strategies that address complex development challenges. By combining data-driven analysis with local knowledge, the aim is to help policymakers, practitioners, and communities identify what works, adapt it to their contexts, and scale solutions that deliver lasting impact.

Strategic Question


How can we better integrate rigorous evidence into policy decisions to ensure development initiatives deliver measurable, sustainable results?

Key Focus Areas

Content
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Enhancing Resilience and Expanding Reach

To compete without compromising openness, 
the U.S. and its allies must strengthen economic resilience. DRI & WISC focus on realistic strategies to reduce overdependencies, secure critical inputs, 
and protect against authoritarian distortion—while preserving innovation, reach, and competitiveness.

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Securing Democratic Digital Dominance

The digital domain shapes everything from economic power to military readiness. DRI & WISC advance democratic leadership across the digital ecosystem—securing trusted infrastructure, guiding innovation, and setting global standards before authoritarian models take hold.

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Modernizing Alliances for Mutual Advantage

To scale impact and deter coercion, alliances must evolve beyond shared values to shared capabilities. DRI & WISC promote modern alliance strategies that align industrial policy, defense readiness, trade, and infrastructure for collective advantage.

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Financial Access in a Growing World

Access to affordable, reliable financial services is a cornerstone of inclusive development. As economies grow and markets evolve, millions remain underserved or excluded from formal financial systems, limiting their ability to invest, manage risk, and build resilience. This pillar examines how innovations in finance—from digital banking to microcredit—can close access gaps, adapt to shifting global conditions, and ensure that economic growth benefits individuals and communities at every level.

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Development That Delivers Opportunity

Inclusive development underpins economic security. Advancing financial access, human capital, institutional trust, and entrepreneurship strengthens prosperity and expands opportunity in every region.

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Infrastructure That Binds and Builds Power

Effective development policy demands more than good intentions—it requires rigorous evidence, tested approaches, and measurable results. This pillar focuses on translating academic research into practical strategies that address complex development challenges. By combining data-driven analysis with local knowledge, the aim is to help policymakers, practitioners, and communities identify what works, adapt it to their contexts, and scale solutions that deliver lasting impact.

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