The European Commission intends set up informal working groups composed of individuals from both, the science and diplomacy communities, to develop potential elements of a future European framework for science diplomacy. A dedicated call for expressions of interest has been launched and will close on 31 October 2023 (23:59 Brussels time).
The main aim of the working groups is to bring together the relevant stakeholders in an innovative format, to jointly develop recommendations in a co-creation process. For more information about science diplomacy and the envisaged European framework, please consult this Explanatory Note.
Members of the working groups are expected to participate in their personal capacity. Participation in the working groups is not remunerated. By submitting your expression of interest, you confirm that your employer agrees to your candidacy.
Eligibility criteria
Candidates must have the nationality of an EU Member State, except for candidates working in academia (e.g., higher education institutions, research-performing organisations, not-for-profit academic think tanks and associations) who may either have the nationality of an EU Member State or of any country associated to the Horizon Europe (incl. the UK, which upon completion of the necessary procedures is expected to be associated from 1 January 2024) or, if having a different nationality, be employed by an academic institution established in any of these countries.
Upcoming European Science Diplomacy Conference
The first European Science Diplomacy Conference will take place in Madrid on 18-19 December 2023 under the auspices of the Spanish Presidency of the Council of the EU.
In its conclusions on the Global Approach to Research and Innovation, and on the future governance of the European Research Area, the Council recently called for the development of a European Science Diplomacy Agenda. Consequently, discussions on science diplomacy are ongoing, both at institutional level and with relevant stakeholders, with a view of developing a framework for European Science Diplomacy.
The conference organised by the Spanish Presidency of the Council, together with the European Commission has the following objectives:
- Taking stock of the development of the European Framework for Science Diplomacy
- Progressing the draft framework and discussing the way ahead
- Offering space for dialogue, co-creation and participation by a broad range of stakeholders and fostering science diplomacy outreach, also beyond the EU
- Enhancing motivation among science diplomacy actors to get actively involved and creating visibility for the ongoing process
The conference will also be the occasion to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the Madrid Declaration on Science Diplomacy, which has been endorsed by over 200 experts since its adoption in December 2018.