Science Diplomacy

Both sides benefit from this interplay between foreign policy and science: Good diplomatic relations can make a decisive contribution to the success of international research projects ('Diplomacy for Science'). At the same time, scientific partnerships can become a springboard for improved diplomatic contacts ('Science for Diplomacy').

We are therefore involved in a large number of research projects with diplomatic significance. In Jordan, for example, we are setting up a beamline at the particle accelerator SESAME. The facility is the first of its kind in the Middle East. Under the auspices of UNESCO, the countries of Egypt, Iran, Israel, Jordan, Pakistan, the Palestinian Territories, Turkey and Cyprus have joined forces to build and operate the facility. Thus, in addition to fulfilling its scientific tasks, the facility aims to promote international understanding in the Middle East.

We provide policy and systems advice and are involved in national and international bodies such as the United Nations, the German Ethics Council, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the WHO, the World Economic Summit, and the G7 and G20 summits.

The Centers of the Association are active in developing and emerging countries through a variety of research projects, for example in Africa and Southeast Asia. Together with our partners there, we conduct cutting-edge research that brings innovations to society, promotes local talent and expands scientific infrastructures. In this way, we also develop local solutions to urgent issues such as infectious tropical diseases or the consequences of climate change. When the measures are implemented directly in the affected regions, we can sustainably improve the living conditions of the local population.