Michael Svarer: “I hope I have helped to advance our welfare society”

What are your motivations for being an expert commentator?

First and foremost, I feel I have a responsibility to step up and advocate for my research, but I also really enjoy it. Economics research has always received a lot of attention in the media, because researchers in the field can offer insights that have the potential to make a difference to people’s lives. So I’m tapping into a tradition that already exists. But I also gain new insights by talking to journalists. They often ask questions that give me a new perspective on the issues I’m researching.

What do you consider before saying yes or no to an interview?

What can I add to the debate, and do I have time? What are the costs? Sometimes I’m asked to read through a lot of material first, and then I usually say no, because it takes too long.

How do you prepare?

It depends on the situation, but I don’t often need to spend time preparing. I’ve been working in this field for many years and have applied my knowledge in different contexts, so in a way just doing my day job means I’m continually preparing. Of course, there are some topics I just need to read up on – what does the literature say? But as a former chief economic adviser, I’m always able to find the information I’m looking for in a previous report.

How do you balance the goal of communicating your knowledge in an accessible way with your commitment to scientific rigour?

It’s a difficult balance, and I’ve changed my approach over the years. At first, I formulated my statements very carefully and qualified a lot of what I said. This meant that my message wasn’t as clear as it could have been. But as time’s gone on, I’ve focused more on the communication, so that the majority of people can follow what I’m saying. Sometimes I get it wrong, of course – there is always the risk that my message will be too simple. But I try to find a balance that helps me get the most important ideas across without compromising on the science.

How do you deal with the criticism or pushback that expert commentators sometimes have to deal with?

When you put your head above the parapet, you risk getting shot. And sometimes that’s exactly what you deserve. This is par for the course when you have a voice in public debate. I know I might get criticised, and this has of course got to me from time to time. But it hasn’t held me back.

What impact do you think your role as an expert has had – both for you and for the public debate?

I hope I have helped to advance our welfare society. Economists have always played a role in providing knowledge on everything from pensions and tax to the green transition so that politicians can make informed decisions. These issues are important for all of us.

Do you check people’s comments on social media after your media appearances?

Sometimes. If the appearance relates to my research, I glance at the comments, but I rarely comment myself. I used Twitter back when it was a good place to be, but now that it’s X it’s not as relevant and I’m no longer active on the platform. When I was younger – and the debate was in newspaper articles – I got more involved. Today I don’t engage in the comments section too much. I focus more on the academic side of things.

How do you disconnect from the media treadmill?

I try to stay away from the media, but it’s not easy, and I have to admit that I’m not good at it. Perhaps this is something I should work on.

What's your best advice for colleagues who are considering making public media appearances?

Be prepared to share your knowledge, have professional confidence in what you say, and only go ahead with it if the benefits