Technology is advancing faster than governance can adapt
The multilateral system is entering a decisive decade. Scientific and technological breakthroughs are reshaping societies, economies and ecosystems faster than governance can respond. Diplomats are asked to negotiate rules and anticipate the impacts of innovations that can barely be tracked, often with limited resources and no structured access to expertise. Scientists, meanwhile, lack clear entry points into diplomatic processes, and their insights rarely arrive when needed.
Meeting these twenty-first century challenges requires more inclusive, knowledge-driven cooperation. Stronger spaces for science–policy exchange can help ensure that decisions are evidence-based, timely and responsive to complex global issues.
Trusted spaces where science and diplomacy meet
To address this, UNU-CPR and the Geneva Science-Policy Interface (GSPI) have launched an initiative to support Geneva-based diplomats with tailored scientific input and a trusted network of practitioners. It also helps researchers build lasting links with international policy actors.
Through informal exchanges and briefings, the initiative brings diplomats and scientists together to identify priorities, close knowledge gaps and tackle pressing technological and scientific issues.
Geneva as a hub for science–policy collaboration
By connecting cutting-edge expertise with the UN system in Geneva, the initiative helps ensure that scientific knowledge informs solutions to global challenges. Drawing on Geneva’s ecosystem of international organizations, academic institutions, NGOs and diplomatic missions, it strengthens the city’s role as a global hub for science–policy collaboration.
| 29 October | In the lead-up to COP30: emerging mitigation technologies |
| 21 November | Neurotechnology and its implications for health and human rights |
| 4 December | The quantum leap and what it means for health systems |
Participation is by invitation only.
The GSPI–UNU-CPR initiative builds on the work of the UN Secretary-General’s Scientific Advisory Board, particularly its Science Briefs. These are concise, peer-informed summaries that distill current knowledge on emerging scientific and technological issues to inform multilateral decision-making.
The following Science Briefs supported our science–policy exchanges in 2025, including a forthcoming Brief on Carbon Capture.
