Two Ways That Science Advice Underpins Science Diplomacy
By: Prof Remi Quirion, Dr Kristiann Allen, Charles Morissette, Laurent Corbeil
Science Diplomacy has undeniably entered a new era. Geopolitical tensions, information disorder, and the accelerating pace of technological change have reshaped the context in which nations collaborate—or compete—on issues with profound scientific dimensions. This shifting context has exposed the reliance of science diplomacy on robust mechanisms of domestic Science Advice. Without underpinning science advisory processes, states lack common reference points and the capacity to inform diplomatic actions and global debates, and scientific evidence can lose legitimacy in the eyes of global actors.
By contrast, when underpinned by healthy science advisory processes and mechanisms, diplomatic efforts can help maintain momentum, extend policy horizons, align actors around a common understanding of issues, and strengthen the institutional resilience that complex, cross-border challenges demand.