Multi-Model Analysis for Policy in Agricultural Economics: A Conceptual Framework

The complexity of the issues that practitioners in the field of agricultural economics encounter is increasing, with agriculture intersecting with most of the challenges that society faces. Policies related to agriculture need to address an increasing number of objectives, while at the same time it is necessary to understand their related trade-offs. How can policy analysts make use of the available quantitative tools to support an evidence-based policymaking process? In this context, collaborative approaches are increasingly recognised as a vital solution. This paper provides a framework for conducting multi-model analysis for policy and encourages its use in the field of agricultural economics. The following elements are crucial to the success of this method: (i) the development of clear conceptual frameworks identifying the core elements of the problem at hand; (ii) the cooperation between researchers in different fields (or modelling teams); (iii) the identification of synergies and overlaps between models; and (iv) the development of linkages between modelling tools in a largely structured manner. Overall, such an approach ensures that modelling outcomes satisfy policymakers’ needs while keeping the modelling tools manageable. The synergistic use of models that are already well-tested in their respective fields enhances the credibility of the results.