INTRODUCTION:
Health systems worldwide generate increasing volumes of routine data and applied research evidence, yet the translation of this evidence into policy and systems-level decision-making remains inconsistent. Policymakers and health system leaders often encounter fragmented evidence, competing priorities, and limited institutional mechanisms to support meaningful evidence use. These challenges undermine efforts to advance equity, inclusion, and sustainability, particularly in resource-constrained and politically complex environments.

METHODS:
This organised session explores knowledge brokering as a critical function for bridging the gap between evidence generation and action. Convened by Health Systems Trust, the session draws on global lessons from integrating routine health system performance data with thematic health systems research to inform policy dialogue and decision-making. While grounded in practical experience, the session adopts a global perspective, focusing on transferable approaches relevant across diverse health system contexts.

RESULTS:
Through a facilitated panel discussion and structured audience engagement, speakers will examine how different forms of evidence can be curated, synthesised, and translated to support policy processes. The discussion will explore practical knowledge brokering strategies, including aligning evidence to policy cycles, foregrounding equity and inclusion in evidence synthesis, communicating uncertainty and trade-offs, and navigating institutional and political constraints to evidence use.

CONCLUSIONS:
This session is intended for policymakers, researchers, civil society organisations, funders, and implementing partners interested in strengthening evidence-informed governance. By highlighting practical and transferable knowledge brokering approaches, the session aims to support cross-border learning and contribute to the institutionalisation of evidence use as a cornerstone of equitable and sustainable health systems.