Yu-Chun Liao

EU Legislative Interests

My areas of interest concern EU policies related to biodiversity, sustainable agriculture, climate action, food systems, and international cooperation. In particular, engagement may relate to the European Green Deal framework and its associated initiatives, including biodiversity protection, sustainable food systems, and climate mitigation and adaptation measures, as well as EU's Global Gateway Relevant policy areas include the EU Biodiversity Strategy, nature restoration and ecosystem resilience initiatives, the Common Agricultural Policy, research and innovation policy under Horizon Europe, and EU external action concerning sustainable development and food security. Engagement may also concern legislative and non-legislative measures supporting agrobiodiversity, sustainable land use, circular economy approaches, and multilateral environmental agreements where the EU plays a role.

Communication Activities

My activities focus on the translation of scientific evidence into policy-relevant communication and public advocacy, particularly concerning the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 and the European Green Deal. Strategic Publications: Co-authored and coordinated the Kunming Manifesto, a technical-to-policy framework aligning agrobiodiversity research with the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF). This involved synthesizing complex data into accessible policy briefs for institutional stakeholders and donors (e.g., DG INTPA, DG RTD, and DG AGRI). Event Management & Advocacy: Led communication and stakeholder engagement for the 3rd International Agrobiodiversity Congress. I managed digital campaigns and high-level briefing sessions to secure global policy commitments on food system resilience and sustainable land use. Crisis Communication: Founded and managed "Leuven Info – Ukraine," a humanitarian information network. This initiative involved disseminating critical logistical data and coordinating with civil society to support EU-aligned refugee response and solidarity efforts. Local Policy Dissemination: In my capacity as an elected City Councillor in Leuven, I regularly publish updates and engage in public forums regarding local issues. This work effectively communicates the municipal-level implementation of EU climate goals to citizens. Technical Briefings: Frequently produce and disseminate research summaries and social media content for the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, focusing on the Farm to Fork Strategy and international development cooperation.

Interests Represented

Promotes their own interests or the collective interests of their members

Member Of

I am associated with and contribute to the following organisations and networks: 1) The Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT (CGIAR): My primary professional affiliation where I lead technical-to-policy translation and international project management. 2) City Council of Leuven (Gemeenteraad Leuven): As an elected City Councillor, I am a member of the municipal legislative body, specifically contributing to commissions on finance, sustainability, and spatial planning. 3) Vooruit Belgium: My political affiliation, through which I hold my elected mandate and engage in pan-European policy advocacy focused on evidence-based governance and social justice. 4) DiversLeuven: Board member of this NGO to promote diversity and equal opportunities in Leuven, Belgium. 5) International Agrobiodiversity Congress (IAC) Network: Contributor and lead for the development of the Kunming Manifesto, involving coordination with a global network of scientists, policy-makers, and NGOs.

Organisation Members

N/A

Additional Information

The estimated costs are based on a 0.4 FTE allocation toward interest representation and institutional engagement. This figure represents the value of professional time dedicated to aligning technical research and municipal governance experience with EU policy frameworks. It also incorporates direct operational costs for travel, participation in high-level stakeholder fora, and the production of policy-relevant communication materials. These activities are primarily funded through professional remuneration as a Research Specialist at the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT.