Testimonials
Think tanks like Enlighten are a vitally important yet sometimes overlooked component of our democratic system.
They provide expert analysis and test ideas that help inform and develop policy on key issues throughout our society.
Their findings can sometimes prove challenging, and politicians may not always support their conclusions. But ultimately, this healthy divergence of opinion is a crucial element of a healthy and thriving democracy.
I wish everyone at Enlighten the very best and I look forward to working with them in the future.”
Enlighten is a great name for one of Scotland’s foremost think tanks. The organisation is a key part of Scotland’s political life, encouraging thoughtful debate across a range of issues, and valued right across the Scottish political community. I wish Chris and the team all the very best under their new banner.
We have become Scotland’s most influential think tank, just at the time when Holyrood and Westminster need fresh ideas and honest, challenging analysis to help our nation succeed, with opportunities for all to be successful. The time is right for a new name that reflects the breadth of our ambition. We aim to Enlighten our public debate, and we will
A healthy democracy thrives on ideas. Now, more than ever, it is vital that we back think tanks like Reform Scotland, who are making excellent contributions to our public discourse. Charting a way forward as Scotland faces up to the challenges of these uncertain times is incredibly important. It’s clear that as a result of this pandemic we will need to adapt to a new social, political and economic landscape, and look afresh at the delivery of public policies and services. Reform Scotland is already doing impressive work and deserves every support possible so that they may continue do so.
Reform Scotland is that rare thing in Scottish politics – an original and authoritative voice respected on all sides. Its work is rigorous, fair and rooted in the evidence. Wherever you stand on the big political questions we can all agree that fresh thinking about how to make the lives of Scots better is in all our interests. That is what Reform Scotland and its excellent director Chris Deerin provide and why they should be supported.
As the powers and resources of the Scottish Government have evolved and grown over the last 20 years, there has been a critical need for active, creative and collaborative think tanks. Reform Scotland has played a critical role in informing debates about policy, pushing decision-makers further and opening up new debates. At a time of particularly entrenched debate, on the constitution or otherwise, Reform Scotland has successfully managed to rise above it and focus decision-makers’ minds on matters that would make a difference to the daily lives of citizens.