Table 2 Practical recommendations for intersectoral stakeholder engagement

• Recognize that effective stakeholder engagement is a continuous process requiring substantial effort and resources. Ensure the allocation of adequate resources – such as time, funding and personnel – to support engagement activities

• Map key stakeholders and strategically plan when and how to engage them. Recognize that stakeholders have distinct roles and vary in influence and interest. Anticipate the potential consequences of each engagement choice, as engaging with one stakeholder can impact your ability to engage others

• Engage stakeholders from the start. Involve stakeholders early in the research process to collaboratively shape priorities, objectives and methodologies. This early engagement fosters a sense of ownership and promotes long-term commitment to the project

• Introduce the study and engagement process thoughtfully. Tailor the approach and framing to align with each stakeholder’s needs and priorities. Providing clear terms of reference helps set expectations and build trust

• Jointly develop a shared vision that aligns the goals of different stakeholders. A shared vision helps bridge differences in priorities and enables stakeholders to work together towards mutually beneficial outcomes

• Acknowledge that stakeholders need time to become familiar with the research topic, the engagement process and their potential contributions. Providing training can enhance their ability to contribute meaningfully, allowing them to grow into their roles over time

• Build relationships with individual stakeholders and their organizations. Staff turnover may necessitate engaging new individuals; therefore, formalizing agreements with organizations can help sustain progress and ensure continuity during staff changes

• Ensure flexibility in project planning and stakeholder engagement. Emerging challenges and unexpected results may alter stakeholders’ roles. Be prepared to adapt the research and engagement strategies based on shifting priorities, new insights and changing problem framings

• Build trust by transparent communication, active listening and delivering on promises. Clarify roles, responsibilities and expectations. Share information regularly, respect diverse perspectives, interests and concerns, and consistently follow through on commitments

• Keep stakeholders engaged throughout the project. Provide regular progress updates on milestones and developments, showcase quick wins and encourage stakeholders to ask questions and provide feedback

• Monitor the engagement processes and adapt as necessary. Solicit feedback from stakeholders and reflect on the process to enhance engagement efforts

• Develop a long-term stakeholder engagement strategy. Build meaningful relationships with stakeholders beyond the scope of a single project and plan continuous engagement activities