Four research consortia launch joint project for a resilient online society
Four research consortia are joining forces in the new research project “Vulnerability and Resilience in an Online Society: bridging science and policy (VaROS)”.
Narrow the gap between science and policy
The project will start in August 2026 and aims to narrow the gap between science and policy in the field of vulnerability and resilience in an increasingly digitalised society.VaROS is part of the NWA Synergy Programme Vulnerability and Resilience in an Online Society, which focuses on the long-term effects of digitalisation. The initiative takes the form of a so-called “consortium of consortia” and is aimed at better translating scientific insights into practically applicable policy.
The four consortia behind VaROS
Under the leadership of prof. Gianclaudio Malgieri, the following four projects will form the overarching consortium, VaROS, over a period of two years:
- DigAble
- Reading Between the Lines
- MOVUS
- RESOCIAL
These consortia started their research in 2024, focusing on a wide range of societal challenges, such as the organisation of digital care and housing for older adults, social media platforms, neurodiverse young people, and the intersection of online and offline society in Rotterdam.
Although each project has its own specific focus, they complement one another in terms of content. Within VaROS, the knowledge and insights gained in the individual projects are brought together and translated into joint policy recommendations.
A bridge between science and policy
By combining knowledge and expertise and actively involving stakeholders, VaROS aims to help governments gain a better understanding of digital vulnerabilities and to connect relevant stakeholders with one another. This will support more informed policy choices and help strengthen public trust. In doing so, VaROS seeks to make an important contribution to future-proof policymaking for a digitalising society.
Funding and duration
A total of €1.4 million has been made available for VaROS through the NWA Synergy Programme Vulnerability and Resilience in an Online Society. This programme is a joint initiative of the Ministries of Education, Culture and Science (OCW), Infrastructure and Water Management (IenW), Social Affairs and Employment (SZW), Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS), Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature (LVVN), Justice and Security (JenV), the Interior and Kingdom Relations (BZK), and Finance/Tax Administration. The project will start in August 2026 and will have a duration of two years.