What does it take to lead a people-centred policy organisation in today’s polarised and fast-changing Europe? In this episode, we speak with Mathieu Lefèvre, co-founder and CEO of More in Common, a non-profit that uses evidence and social psychology to understand what brings societies together and what drives them apart.

Mathieu reflects on the political fatigue spreading across Europe, and how rising polarisation and disinformation are reshaping the role of evidence in public life. In today’s climate, he argues, evidence is no longer just a tool; it’s a statement of values.

Drawing on nearly a decade of leadership, Mathieu shares lessons from building an organisation rooted in curiosity about people: from bringing polling in-house and investing in team culture, to embracing the political dimensions of their work.

We also explore the challenges think tanks face when it comes to change, funding, and engaging wider audiences. In a sector at risk of drifting away from people’s lived experiences, Mathieu offers a compelling vision of relevance, resilience, and hope.

This episode is part of a series, Think tanks in a changing Europe, supported by the Open Society Foundations. To listen to the whole series, visit: https://onthinktanks.org/podcast/podcast-series-think-tanks-in-a-changing-europe/

To learn more about More in Common, please visit: https://www.moreincommon.com/

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Learn more: https://onthinktanks.org/podcast/ 

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