the outputs, as the network does not circulate them sufficiently (interviewee 8). In this context, several interviewees pointed out that one strategy for ensuring visibility among stakeholders and the use of EMN resources is to maintain regular personal contacts and good relations with national network members (interviewees 5, 7, 8, & 21). 2.2 Facilitating knowledge exchange: the EMN outputs and approach of ‘neutrality’ The EMN was often described by respondents as a neutral actor. EMN outputs are usually produced on the basis of a common questionnaire to which NCPs at the national level respond. It is intended to be as objective as possible and is based on desk research carried out by the NCPs or information received from national network members. Due to the common questionnaire template, it provides a comparative and timely overview of the situation in different EMN Member States and Observer Countries (e.g., interviewee 4), which was described as relevant information by interviewees (e.g., 2, 3, 5, 7, & 17). This is particularly the case given that the information is “very well structured” and easily accessible, saving users a lot of time (interviewee 12; echoed to some extent by interviewee 2). In this regard, one respondent stated that the "EMN, it's something they like a big library [...]. full of very interesting books. And [in] these books, you can find the official legal norms used by member states and the explanation" (interviewee 3). Another interviewee participant highlighted that the EMN’s outputs are highly beneficial, as the information “is already accumulated and is prepared for digestion [and] analysis” and added that “the comparative analysis is already there”, so the user only has to consult the information and decide how it can serve them in their context (interviewee 12). Thus, the EMN outputs provide a comparative overview of the situation in Member States and Observer countries without drawing critical conclusions or providing policy recommendations (interviewees 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 14, 19, 23 & 33 to some extent). As one NCP member put it, "I guess [...] in a way you could say we [...] put the information next to each other" (Interviewee 4). This approach was highlighted as particularly important in relation to migration being a sensitive issue that requires an objective information provider (e.g., interviewees 7, 8, & 23). For instance, one NCP stated that migration as a topic “is sensitive as it is, so [...] it’s not up to us to really point at anybody […] I think there is a need for […] this really objective information on the topic”, and added, considering that migration can be a very triggering issue, “you have to just be very calm and just give the neutral information without any suggestions” (interviewee 7, echoed by interviewee 8). Moreover, considering how polarized migration is, one interviewee stated that “it's important for EMN to have that role of communicating what is true, and […] evidence-based knowledge” (interviewee 23). In addition, while some respondents felt that EMN outputs could be made more policy relevant by adding more analytical elements, such as policy recommendations (interviewees 23 & 33; 14 to some extent), the EMN's 'neutral' and objective approach was also highlighted as a factor that can facilitate engagement 16