This study will build on earlier work undertaken in this field, notably by RAPID, to examine the link between knowledge and policy. It will examine this research and consider what changes  have or have not happened as a result of it. It will also look beyond the link between formal  research and policy, taking a broad definition of knowledge and focussing on how knowledges of a variety of types, and from all possible sources, are  taken into account. This is an important study for IKM Emergent Research Programme because the link between knowledge and policy is key for  how policy is formulated and implemented.  It should also provide interesting input into ideas being developed by IKM  Emergent on how policy makers can be convinced of  the importance of recognising  multiple knowledges  and multiple realities  in policymaking processes.