OECD Blue Sky Forum 2026 Brings Experts Together to Discuss the Future of Science and Innovation Policy

Paris, September Experts from different sectors gathered this week at the 2026 OECD Blue Sky Forum to discuss how new forms of data, indicators and responsible approaches can strengthen science and innovation policy.

The forum brought together participants from across the science, technology, research, government and wider policy communities to examine how evidence and emerging analytical tools can improve understanding of rapidly changing innovation systems.

Focus on Better Evidence for Policy

A central theme of the forum was the role of data in shaping science and innovation policies. As research and technology ecosystems continue to evolve, policymakers increasingly need reliable indicators capable of capturing developments that may not be reflected in traditional statistics.

Participants explored approaches for improving the measurement and interpretation of scientific and technological activity, with attention to how new data sources can complement established indicators.

The discussions also considered the challenges associated with producing meaningful evidence in areas where innovation is developing quickly.

Responsible Approaches to Innovation

The forum also addressed the importance of responsible approaches when developing and applying new methods for science and innovation policy.

Emerging technologies and new sources of data can provide additional insights, but their use also raises questions about data quality, interpretation, governance and responsible decision-making.

Bringing experts from different sectors together provides an opportunity to examine these issues from multiple perspectives and consider how policy frameworks can keep pace with technological and scientific change.

Looking Beyond Traditional Indicators

Science and innovation systems are becoming increasingly complex, involving universities, research organizations, businesses, governments and international networks.

Traditional measures can provide valuable information about research and development, but policymakers may also need new indicators to understand areas such as emerging technologies, collaboration patterns and changing innovation activities.

The Blue Sky Forum provides a platform for discussing possible improvements to the evidence base used in these areas.

Strengthening Science and Innovation Policy

The discussions at the 2026 forum highlight the continuing importance of robust evidence in public policy. Better data and carefully designed indicators can help decision-makers understand trends, identify emerging developments and evaluate policy priorities.

The exchange of ideas among experts from different fields can also contribute to the development of approaches that are better suited to the changing global science and innovation landscape.

The OECD Blue Sky Forum 2026 therefore serves as a platform for examining how measurement, data and responsible analytical practices can contribute to stronger science and innovation policymaking in the years ahead.