European Union Science Diplomacy Alliance - Fostering EU Science Diplomacy to contribute to a better future for all. in

We are pleased to share the key outcomes of the side event titled "Shaping the European Framework for Science Diplomacy: What Does It Mean for Science Advice?" This event was a collaborative effort between the EU Science Diplomacy Alliance, the European Commission, and the Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs of Austria (MFA Austria). It took place during the Scientific Advice Mechanism Conference in Vienna on May 26, 2025.

Event highlights

Our distinguished panel of experts and invited speakers shared their experiences and insights co-creating a European Framework for Science Diplomacy. The discussions emphasized the importance of integrating scientific advice into diplomatic efforts. The panel included:

Jan Marco Müller, Team Leader Global Approach, Multilateral Dialogue and Science Diplomacy, European Commission

Georg Kilzer, Head of Unit for Scientific Cooperation and Science Diplomacy, Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs

Arnold Obermayr, Director, Austrian Cultural Forum Warsaw, Austrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Lise Øvreås, Vice-President of the European Academies' Science Advisory Council (EASAC)

Maria Rentetzi, Professor and Chair of Science, Technology, and Gender Studies, FAU

Carolina Cañibano, Tenured Scientist at CSIC, and a Seconded National Expert in DG Research & Innovation, European Commission

Speakers shared their perspectives on the following key topics:

• Transnational cooperation for global challenges: Science is crucial for tackling interconnected global issues such as climate change, energy security, water resource management, and food systems. These challenges necessitate sustained dialogue, shared scientific insights, and equitable solutions through international cooperation.
• Europe as a global scientific power: In the context of geopolitical competition and technological rivalry, Europe aims to position itself as a leader in global science. A coherent science diplomacy framework is essential for promoting European values, defending its interests, and contributing to global stability and sustainable development.
• A European Framework for Science Diplomacy: The newly proposed framework aims to coordinate efforts across nations and sectors, support Europe’s leadership in global public goods, and institutionalize science diplomacy within EU foreign policy. It includes strategic, operational, and enabling instruments to align science diplomacy with policy priorities and enhance cross-sector cooperation.
• Role of the EU Science Diplomacy Alliance: Founded in 2021, the Alliance, comprising over 40 organizations, plays a pivotal role in training science diplomats, supporting cooperative projects, and coordinating capacity building and dialogue across Europe and beyond.
• Strategic importance of science diplomacy: Science, technology, and innovation are critical geopolitical assets. Science diplomacy is not only cooperative but also strategic, influencing power dynamics, global norms, and technological sovereignty.
• Science advice mechanisms in policymaking: The dialogue highlighted the importance of science advice mechanisms, especially under uncertainty. It emphasized the need for anticipatory governance for emerging technologies, robust advisory structures involving diverse stakeholders, and the use of plausible scenarios to guide decisions.
• Education and public trust in science diplomacy: Tailored education and career development programs are essential for scientists, diplomats, and policymakers. Rebuilding public trust in science and diplomacy requires direct engagement with citizens, transparent communication about risks and uncertainties, and humanizing science by emphasizing its societal relevance and accessibility.

Participants engaged in interactive roundtables focused on the future of science advice and science diplomacy in 2035, focusing on the main actions to be undertaken. These sessions involved developing best-case and worst-case scenarios, brainstorming potential "wild cards" and disruptive events, and exchanging ideas on:

• Skills and expertise
• Science diplomacy ecosystems and infrastructures
• Innovation communities for science diplomacy
• The impact of AI on science advice

Key take-aways:

• Foster collaboration between diverse stakeholders and diplomats according to the quadruple helix innovation concept, to address global challenges and societal needs.
• Promote capacity building organizing joint events and trainings using formats suitable for all stakeholders.
• Utilize existing science diplomacy mechanisms at the EU level, such as the G20 Mutual Accountability Framework, to enhance credibility and structured engagement.
• Ensure continuity in science diplomacy efforts through long-term commitments from researchers.
• Use robust knowledge outputs as a foundation for policy dialogue and solutions, particularly in the current geopolitical context.
• Address resource constraints by optimizing agendas and effectively allocating necessary resources to advance science diplomacy initiatives.
• Leverage political support and funding from initiatives like Horizon Europe to strengthen science diplomacy activities.
• Develop clear strategies to attract and retain talent, bridging capacity gaps crucial for science diplomacy development.
• Enhance communication in science diplomacy by promoting empathetic communication and critical thinking and aligning terminologies and timeframes to ensure mutual understanding among stakeholders.
• Emphasize the importance of the effective science communication to bridge the gap between research and public understanding, ensuring that scientific knowledge is accessible for all stakeholders.
• Improve regulatory frameworks and provide career incentives for scientists to engage in policy-making, fostering a robust science diplomacy ecosystem.

The organizers express sincere gratitude to all the speakers, participants, and collaborators who contributed to the success of this side event. Your enthusiasm and valuable contributions are instrumental in shaping the future of science diplomacy in Europe.

The EU Science Diplomacy Alliance remains committed to building bridges and fostering collaboration in this vital field.

The event was facilitated by Angela Schindler-Daniels and Stella Reschke from the DLR Project Management Agency, Germany.