On 4 February, the Institute hosted a one-day workshop entitled The Societal Dimensions of Scientific Advice and Science Diplomacy. Organised by the Tech Hub in partnership with The International Observatory on the Societal Impacts of AI and Digital Technologies (OBVIA), Sciences Po – Center for International Studies (CERI), and the International Science Council, the event brought together researchers and practitioners from Europe, North America, and Asia to examine how scientific knowledge interacts with diplomacy in a context of technological acceleration and geopolitical fragmentation.
Structured around five thematic panels, the workshop addressed topics ranging from global security and emerging technologies to intercultural diplomacy, the strategic integration of scientific advice, and scientific narratives in the age of artificial intelligence. Across discussions, participants highlighted the growing importance of AI literacy, interdisciplinary collaboration, and science diplomacy as essential tools for addressing global challenges.
The day opened with a keynote by Maryline Andersen, Director of the Geneva Science and Diplomacy Anticipator, who presented GESDA’s anticipatory approach to science diplomacy.
Several discussions focused on the changing power dynamics of science diplomacy. In this regard, speakers underlined how geopolitical fragmentation and technological disruption simultaneously increase the need for scientific cooperation while making it more contested. Particular attention was paid to the role of infrastructure in shaping who can participate in scientific collaboration and how authority, expertise, and resources influence outcomes.
Panels on global security and emerging technologies examined the growing entanglement between civilian innovation and military applications, raising questions about arms control, disarmament, and the inclusion of scientific expertise in diplomatic negotiations. Speakers stressed the need for more proactive and anticipatory approaches to governance in this rapidly evolving landscape.
Speakers highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary cooperation, while also drawing attention to persistent inequalities in science production, the concentration of research capacity, and the challenges posed by declining academic freedom in many regions.
Discussions on AI and scientific narratives addressed concerns about di/misinformation, declining information integrity, and the impact of AI on freedom of expression and public trust. Participants emphasised the importance of transparency, diversity, independent oversight, and ethical safeguards in AI governance, as well as the crucial role of the social sciences in understanding the societal implications of technological change.
The workshop concluded with a keynote by Rémi Quirion, Chief Scientist of Québec and President of the International Network for Governmental Science Advice, who reflected on the day’s key insights and the challenges ahead for scientific advice and science diplomacy, drawing on his extensive experience at the interface of science and policy.
The event offered a rich and timely exchange on a major diplomatic issue of our time. The organisers warmly thank all speakers and participants, and extend special thanks to Lyse Langlois (OBVIA) and Stéphanie Balme (Sciences Po) for their close collaboration in making this workshop possible.