Policy analysis and advice
About this expertise
In short- Scientific research
- Policy analysis
- Cost and impact assessments
- Scenario development
- Strategic advice for policymakers
Wageningen University & Research has a strong track record in policy analysis and advisory services, particularly in the socio-economic domain of agri-food systems. We help answer key policy questions: What are the impacts of specific policies? What dilemmas and trade-offs exist? What future scenarios can be explored?
We conduct systems analyses, policy explorations, and scenario studies for national governments, European institutions, sector organisations, and civil society. Our experts combine deep knowledge of agriculture and food systems with advanced capabilities in data analysis, economic modelling, behavioural science, and systems transformation.
We develop a wide range of policy tools, including simulation and calculation models, that support evidence-based decision-making at both national and EU levels.
Monitoring and evaluation are integral to our work. We collect and analyse data to make policy impacts visible and measurable. This includes the use of indicator frameworks, dashboards, and thematic reports that inform and support policy decisions.
Wageningen University & Research has developed a range of models and tools to measure, calculate, and project future scenarios. We also have access to an extensive collection of data, sourced from our Farm Sustainability Data Network (FSDN) and international databases such as Eurostat, FAOSTAT, and the OECD.
Some of the key models we use for policy analysis and advisory work include:
MAGNET
MAGNET is a global general equilibrium model that simulates the development of prices, production, and trade at the level of individual countries. We use MAGNET to assess the impact of global economic developments and policy changes, such as shifts in trade barriers. The model is a cornerstone for quantitative analyses related to the bioeconomy and food security.
AGMEMOD
AGMEMOD is an econometric model covering agriculture in EU Member States and candidate countries. Managed by Wageningen Social & Economic Research in collaboration with European partners, it is used to evaluate EU agricultural policies and the implications of EU accession.
DRAM
DRAM is a regionalised Positive Mathematical Programming (PMP) model of Dutch agriculture. It provides detailed insights at both regional and farm-type levels and is used to analyse the effects of policy changes and external pressures on Dutch agriculture, with particular attention to environmental impacts.
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Get in touch with our expert
Do you have a question regarding policy analysis or opportunities to work with us? Please get in touch.
ir. P (Petra) Berkhout
Expert Dutch agriculture