Bridging the Implementation Gap: Key Lessons from UNGA 2026

Evidence and research are essential to addressing complex social challenges. Yet, translating what we know into meaningful change at scale remains a challenge for policymakers, practitioners and institutions. How can we ensure that evidence informs not only what we design, but how we put it into practice?

This was the central question we explored during “Bridging the Implementation Gap: Behavioral Science as a Tool for Systemic Change,” an event convened by the Queen Rania Foundation (QRF) and the Van Leer Foundation during the 2026 United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

Moderated by Bassem Saad, CEO of the Queen Rania Foundation, the discussion brought together Joan Lombardi, Adjunct Professor and Principal Advisor at the Stanford Center for Early Childhood; Ana Paula Dugaich, Founder and CEO of Allma Hub in Brazil; and Farah Maher Jadallah, Van Leer Foundation Country Representative. Together, they explored how behavioural science can strengthen the design and implementation of policies and programmes.

The discussion highlighted an important distinction: knowing what works does not automatically translate into successful implementation. Bridging this gap requires understanding the behaviours, conditions and systems that shape how solutions are adopted and sustained.

Several key lessons emerged:

1. Evidence must translate into action.

Research can point us towards effective solutions, but implementation requires deliberate planning, institutional support and an understanding of the barriers that stand in the way.

2. Human behaviour must be part of the solution.

Understanding how people make decisions, what motivates them and what barriers they face is essential to designing interventions that are practical, relevant and effective.

3. Context matters.

Solutions cannot simply be transferred from one setting to another. They must reflect local realities, cultural contexts and the needs of the communities they serve.

4. Lasting change requires collaboration.

Complex challenges call for collaboration across institutions, policymakers, researchers and practitioners, ensuring that evidence and expertise translate into coordinated, system-wide action.

5. Implementation is an ongoing learning process.

Effective programmes must be continuously assessed and adapted. Learning from what works, what does not and why is essential to achieving sustainable impact.

For the Queen Rania Foundation, these lessons reinforce the importance of connecting research, behavioural insights and practical implementation. Through its work in education and early childhood development, QRF continues to champion evidence-informed approaches, strengthen partnerships and support solutions that respond to the needs of children, families and communities.

Ultimately, bridging the implementation gap means moving beyond understanding what needs to change towards making that change happen and ensuring it lasts.

For a deeper reflection, read the article by Bassem Saad and Farah Jadallah.

Access the practical behavioral science guide developed by QRF and the Education Endowment Foundation.