Examining the incentives and motivations for research-based legislation in Uganda.

Abstract

Abstract Purpose – The purpose of the paper is to discuss the factors that would increase or decrease the prospects to use research evidence in legislation in a developing country. Design/methodology/approach – Both qualitative and quantitative research methods were used to identify the gaps in the ability to utilize research evidence among policymakers. A combination of expert analysis of five policy brief formats, 13 self-administered semi-structured interviews with policymakers, focus group discussion and literature analysis informed data collection. Findings – The incentives and motivations for research-based legislation are classified into three categories: those that concern legislators and researchers, those that concern legislators only, and those that concern researchers only. Originality/value – The work discusses the need for policymakers to make decisions based on facts. The findings are a reflection of a long interaction the author had with policymakers and researchers in Uganda. Keywords: Researchers, Uganda, Legislation, Policymaking, Research evidence