Blog by Evelyne Para, SI Representative to UNESCO, Paris.
On 25 and 26 March 2025, a Ministerial Dialogue on Science Diplomacy took place at UNESCO Paris. It was a first!
Alongside many other NGOs and associations, I had the opportunity to participate in this important meeting organised by UNESCO as part of the International Decade of Science (2024-2033) for peace and sustainable development.
With around a thousand participants, including 60 national officials from around the world, this event provided an opportunity for eminent international experts to explore the role of science diplomacy in addressing the challenges of the 21st century, focusing on themes such as open science and research security, shared resources and common goods, and emerging technologies.
Why is Science Diplomacy important?
Throughout history, diplomacy and science have proven to be bridges between societies, serving as essential tools for addressing humanity’s most complex challenges. When these two dimensions converge through science diplomacy, new opportunities arise to expand human knowledge, foster economic development, and, above all, find ways to improve people’s lives without exclusion or discrimination.
At a time of heightened geopolitical tensions, science remains one of the few areas where global collaboration continues. Climate change, resource depletion, and pandemics remind us that our challenges know no borders. Our solutions can and must transcend national boundaries. Faced with global issues and urgent challenges, the world is currently behind schedule in achieving some of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. To address this, it is essential to prioritise research and innovation for sustainable development and bridge the gaps between science and society through robust, science-based public policies, connecting scientists, policymakers, and communities.
Through these efforts, the International Decade of Science 2024–2033 aims to make science a truly global public good, inspiring informed policy decisions, sustainable practices, and equitable progress for all. Under the auspices of UNESCO, the Decade’s goal is to restore trust in science, encourage critical and nuanced thinking, and strengthen global scientific cooperation. In doing so, together, we are paving the way for a more resilient, equitable, and informed world.
Targeted themes
During the first day of this global meeting organised at UNESCO, several scientific fields and societal challenges were highlighted by the various experts and speakers, in particular:
>>> Combating Climate Change
This challenge requires urgent action to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to its impacts, such as rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and rising sea levels. Innovative solutions were presented to help communities build resilience through scientific research and policy integration.
>>> Biodiversity
Biodiversity loss threatens ecosystems, human health, and livelihoods worldwide. Experts presented initiatives aimed at protecting endangered species, preserving habitats, and promoting sustainable use of land and oceans.
>>> Clean Energy
It is important to encourage research and innovation in renewable energy technologies such as solar, wind, and bioenergy. By promoting international cooperation and investment in clean energy, the initiative aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and ensure universal access to affordable and sustainable energy.
>>> Water Management
Effective water management is essential to ensure access to clean water and mitigate the effects of droughts, floods, and water scarcity. Public policies must support the development of innovative solutions for water conservation, improving water quality, and optimising its use in agriculture, industry, and urban areas. Furthermore, strengthening diplomacy and global cooperation on transboundary water resources is essential to ensure long-term sustainability.
>>> Health and Well-being
The initiatives presented aim to ensure clean air and water, reduce pollutants, and strengthen public health resilience to climate impacts by promoting a holistic approach to well-being and sustainability.
>>> Agriculture and Food Security
Emphasis was placed on research and practices that strengthen crop resilience, improve soil health, and reduce environmental impacts. Integrating science-based approaches into sustainable land management is essential to supporting farmers, improving food systems, and strengthening global efforts to feed a growing population while protecting our natural resources.
>>> Digital Transformation and Innovation
Speakers supported the responsible and inclusive use of digital tools, such as artificial intelligence (AI), big data, and the Internet of Things (IoT), to develop cross-sector solutions. This action area also aims to bridge the digital divide by ensuring equitable access to technologies that can empower communities and improve scientific research, data sharing, and sustainable development decision-making.
Strengthening commitment to dialogue and peace
During the Global Ministerial Segment on March 26, representatives of countries and organisations discussed optimising science diplomacy, building on the themes of the previous day’s expert discussions. They also discussed the effective deployment of science diplomacy in humanitarian, geopolitical, and environmental crises. In addition to national representatives, representatives of several international organisations expressed their commitment to science diplomacy over the two days, including the International Science Council, the OECD, the Union for the Mediterranean, the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs, the UN Convention on Biological Diversity, and the European Commission. They reiterated that science diplomacy approaches must be characterised by flexibility to adapt to ever-changing circumstances, inclusivity to ensure all voices are heard, a commitment to addressing existing asymmetries in knowledge and capacity, and a focus on building trust and mutual understanding
To conclude the event, the Co-Chairs of the Ministerial Roundtables issued a statement echoing the spirit of this Ministerial Dialogue on Science Diplomacy, and calling on UNESCO to support the strengthening of collaboration between the spheres of science and diplomacy through capacity-building initiatives and strategic science diplomacy.