Navigating Togetherness: Stakeholder Engagement and Reflexive Practices in Technology Assessment

In response to multiple crises and uncertain futures, parts of science and technology studies (STS) attempt to imagine and create desirable futures through collective efforts and interdisciplinary perspectives. Researchers and others aim for a more just and inclusive world through collaborative programs, public engagement, research, and transdisciplinary ventures.

Like others in STS, technology assessment (TA) signifies an integrative practice, encompassing critical examination, evaluation, communication, and co-design. It aims to bridge the gap between scientific advancements and societal needs by involving diverse stakeholders, including policymakers, industry representatives, and the public, in responsible decision-making processes. While many concepts and guidelines on stakeholder engagement exist, in real life, this process is seldom straightforward and clear-cut.

With this expert panel, we invite disputants to join an open debate on practices, challenges, and critiques of the concept of "stakeholder" in research projects. We aim to foster exchange and enable systematization, which may interest those engaged in stakeholder activities and their study.
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We invite rethinking the following questions:

• How to navigate stakeholder identification and selection in research processes to
ensure inclusive and impactful outcomes?
• How can our joint experience contribute to understanding and mitigating polarization?
• Does the role of togetherness, expectations, and demands need to be revised? If so,
how?
• How can shared knowledge and mutual recognition be fostered to navigate
contemporary controversies and build a more cohesive and resilient society?

The goal of this panel is to structure the exchange of ideas and, optionally, to develop a position paper that synthesizes the insights gained.