Science Diplomacy and The Global State of Affairs

Sir Peter Gluckman’s address explores the precarious state of science in an era of global instability, political populism, and societal distrust. He argues that international science faces an existential challenge marked by declining trust, increased politicization, and eroding public engagement, particularly in democratic nations. While science, defined by its universal principles of empirical inquiry and peer review, remains a global public good, the institutions that produce and use science can be entangled in political, economic, and ideological battles. The post-COVID world has intensified these tensions, with misinformation, short-termism, nationalism, and elite scepticism undermining the social contract between science and society.

Science diplomacy, once effective in uniting nations around shared goals like the Sustainable Development Goals and climate agreements, now struggles within an outdated multilateral system. Gluckman emphasizes that for science diplomacy to remain impactful, it must balance national interests and global needs, particularly regarding the global commons. Informal, Track 2 science diplomacy and a reformed scientific ecosystem, more inclusive, transdisciplinary, and socially engaged, may be key to rebuilding trust and influence.

The science community must reflect on its role, address its own institutional weaknesses, and better communicate with an increasingly sceptical and divided public. Young scientists, new diplomatic strategies, and a redefined relationship between science, society, and politics are essential to restoring the credibility and utility of science in policymaking. Despite these formidable challenges, Gluckman remains cautiously optimistic that science can still serve as a critical tool for global cooperation and problemsolving,  if its social contract can be renewed.