Communication and Social Sciences
Networks
What are EFSA's networks?
EFSA’s networks consist of nationally appointed EU Member State organisations with expertise in the fields covered by the network. Representatives of the Commission and of other organisations (including those from outside the EU) with specific expertise may also be invited to participate in the work of EFSA Networks.
Networks are chaired by EFSA and supported by relevant EFSA units. Their aim is to facilitate scientific cooperation in the field of EFSA’s mission by:
- coordinating activities,
- exchanging information,
- developing and implementing joint projects,
- and exchanging expertise and best practices.
- Decision concerning the establishment and operation of European Networks of scientific organisations operating in the fields within the Authority’s mission(35.46 KB)
Communication
The Communications Experts Network is one of EFSA’s scientific networks. The communication departments of the national food safety agencies and EFSA work together to share best practices on communicating risks in the food chain and to promote coherence of messages across the EU. The network plays a particularly important role during food-related emergencies, co-ordinating the sharing of information among Member States so that they give consistent advice to consumers and the affected.
- Terms of reference last updated: 11 February 2025
- List of members last updated: 8 October 2024
Social sciences
The use of evidence and expertise from social science at EFSA was first formalised in 2018. Social science is now a well-established function, with an in-house team providing research and advice services across the organisation with the support of external expertise.
Social Sciences Priorities at EFSA
Social science work for the 2022-27 period is structured across the three roadmap priorities below
Past/upcoming Work: Mid-Term Review of EFSA’s Social Sciences Roadmap
The mid-term review of EFSA’s Social Sciences roadmap (2025) provides an update on progress towards the three priorities, taking stock of work across the past three years (2022-2024), and it outlines future developments of social sciences work at EFSA for the 2025-27 period.
EFSA’s social science work is supported by its Social Research Methods and Advice Working Group.
In addition, one of the Members of EFSA’s Scientific Committee is a Social Scientist.