Navigating Disruption: The Crucial Role of Science Diplomacy Today | Insights from the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)

The American Association for the Advancement of Science and the Royal Society have unveiled a new framework titled “Science Diplomacy in an Era of Disruption.” This framework tackles current challenges in science diplomacy, including economic competition, fast-paced technological changes like artificial intelligence, and the influence of powerful non-state actors, such as major tech companies.

Key Points of the Framework:

• Science diplomacy serves as a tool to help nations and organizations achieve their diplomatic goals, which can have both positive and negative implications.
• It explores how various industries are leveraging science diplomacy to promote their business agendas.
• The framework stresses the importance of recognizing national security risks in scientific partnerships and clarifying the roles of scientists and diplomats.
• It moves from theory to practice, examining how science influences diplomacy and how diplomatic actions can affect scientific efforts.

Over the past year, the report was developed through extensive discussions, international scientific meetings, and contributions, including a joint special issue of the journal Science & Diplomacy.

In 2010, the Royal Society and AAAS released another significant report called New Frontiers in Science Diplomacy, which helped popularize science diplomacy in the global scientific community. Since then, the term has gained traction in conferences and educational programs. Today, many nations have developed their own strategies for employing science diplomacy.

Despite its importance, the original concepts felt outdated in today’s context. Scientific advancements are outpacing regulations, power dynamics have shifted globally, and the role of diplomats is changing, especially as multinational corporations engage in their own diplomatic efforts. The balance between transparency and security is more delicate than ever, and rising global conflicts raise questions about the effectiveness of science diplomacy. In this disruptive era, understanding how to use science diplomacy is crucial.

We appreciate everyone who contributed to this effort and hope this report serves as a valuable resource for those involved in science diplomacy.

For more insights, check out the full report: “Science Diplomacy in an Era of Disruption.”