Similarly, another respondent points out that the EMN is successful in its facilitator role because NCP members created a “personal bond” and “trust” among each other, which is crucial for helping each other out and exchanging information rapidly (interviewee 13). Lastly, interviewee 22 refers to the “EMN family”, describing a sense of belonging among NCPs, which they believe is a key factor in the informal, smooth, and rapid exchange of information among NCPs. Furthermore, NCP’s good relationships with the national network members were identified as a crucial factor in enabling them to carry out their work successfully (interviewees 5, 7, 10, 21, & 22). For instance, one NCP explained that the basis of their successful cooperation and rapid data collection from stakeholders is based on a long-standing relationship marked by a certain trustworthiness and regular interactions with national network members (interviewee 21). Similarly, interviewee 7 highlights that the performance of NCPs is linked to the relationships they create with their national network members. In this regard, one stakeholder explained how good relationships in the wider network facilitate evidence engagement, making the EMN the “perfect intermediary” because “States don’t want to share [information] on some topics, but with the EMN, because [...] all people [...] know each other since a long time and work together, they built some trust. And […] when you go through the EMN, you will receive answers” (interviewee 9). In addition, the importance of interpersonal relationships and contact in evidence engagement was also highlighted by the stakeholders interviewed (interviewees 9, 11, 16, 17, 31 & 32). For example, some pointed out that having good relationships with their respective NCPs facilitates reaching them to get the information they need (interviewees 16, 17), while others explained that the EMN’s network makes it easier for their NCP to put them in touch with actors who have expertise that they know (interviewees 9 & 11). This is echoed by one NCP who stated that “the experts in the field, they all know us […] and they know how to approach us and ask [when] they need [to know] the practices of other states” (interviewee 5). Lastly, interviews revealed that good relationships and collaboration facilitate identifying and meeting national stakeholders, such as policymakers, evidence needs (interviewees 5, 8, 10, 12, 21; 7 & 22 to some extent). As one former NCP, who works in policymaking themselves now, put it, personal contact is the “cornerstone” of understanding policymakers' information needs. This is why NCPs should seek as much personal contact and conversation with policymakers as possible (interviewee 8). Another NCP member highlighted that they understand their national authorities’ information needs based on the good connections and personal relationships developed over the years, resulting in an easy-going, informal exchange of information needs (interviewees 5). The interview findings are consistent with research showing that networks tend to facilitate learning and knowledge exchange by encouraging sustained interaction and dialogue among members (Soares, 2024) 14