Science Diplomacy

Science diplomacy is multidimensional. As Germany's National Academy of Sciences, the Leopoldina is a recognised player in this form of diplomacy. It uses its reputation, networking and expertise to contribute scientific findings to foreign policy - especially in difficult situations.

Science diplomacy builds on the universal language of science. With its formats, the Leopoldina enables dialogue across borders and creates trust even where political channels are blocked. Researchers can thus pave the way for foreign policy breakthroughs - as in the German-Israeli rapprochement after the Second World War. The Leopoldina and the Israel Academy of Sciences and Humanities are continuing this tradition together.

Global challenges require consensus beyond national interests. Science diplomacy offers spaces for negotiation and consensus-building - despite differences and geopolitical tensions. The Leopoldina is therefore also involved in partnerships between unequal players, for example with China and the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS).

Cooperation in education and research promotes reconciliation and joint shaping of the future, particularly in south-east Europe. Since 2014, the Leopoldina has been coordinating the "Education, Science and Innovation" pillar with science stakeholders from 16 European countries as part of the Berlin Process for the Western Balkans.

The aim is to integrate the Western Balkan countries into EU structures at an early stage, promote regional cooperation and strengthen social cohesion. Science diplomacy creates "safe spaces" for pro-European discourse and protects cooperation from political interference.

With growing geopolitical instability and complexity, the importance of independent scientific expertise is increasing. The Leopoldina contributes expertise to international processes such as G7 and G20 consultations.

It acts as a "translator" between science and diplomacy - for example in dealing with global crises, from climate change to pandemics, or with issues relating to new technologies such as artificial intelligence.

The Leopoldina also stands by its partners in times of crisis. Together with the Alliance of Science Organisations, it condemned Hamas' terrorist attack on Israel in 2023. It also rejects the boycott of Israeli researchers and attempts to exclude Israel from international science.

Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the Leopoldina suspended institutional relations with Russia and initiated a joint statement by the G7 academies. Working shoulder to shoulder with national and international partners, it supports the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine and is helping to shape plans for reconstruction.