2024 Chief Science Advisers’ Roundtable: Advancing Global Science

Policies at UNESCO Paris

The 2024 Chief Science Advisers’ Roundtable (CSAR) is a pivotal event happening on September 6, 2024, at UNESCO’s headquarters in Paris. Supported by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India and UNESCO’s Natural Sciences Sector, this roundtable brings together global science leaders to improve international science policies.

How Did CSAR Begin?

The Chief Science Advisers’ Roundtable (CSAR) was initiated during India’s G20 Presidency in 2023. Its primary aim is to build stronger international frameworks for scientific advice, enabling countries to better share and utilize scientific knowledge for informed decision-making.

Global Participation at CSAR 2024

The 2024 CSAR will see participation from 28 countries and six international organizations. Delegations will be led by Chief Science Advisers (CSA) or officials in similar roles. This event serves as a platform for global collaboration in the field of science, focusing on improving cross-country partnerships.

Central Theme of CSAR 2024

The main theme for 2024 is “Fostering Open Science, Bridging Knowledge Asymmetry, and Building Science Advice Capacity Globally.” This theme revolves around three core concepts:

• Open Science: Promoting the accessibility of scientific knowledge to everyone.
• Knowledge Asymmetry: Addressing and reducing gaps in scientific knowledge between different nations and groups.
• Science Advice Capacity: Strengthening the ability of countries to provide reliable and impactful scientific advice.

Leadership at CSAR 2024

The event will be co-chaired by two prominent figures:

• Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to India.
• Lidia Brito, UNESCO’s Assistant Director-General for Natural Sciences.

These leaders will steer the discussions, ensuring the event’s focus on key global scientific priorities.

Key Knowledge Session

A significant part of the event is the Knowledge Session, which will focus on how science advisory systems can foster trust in science. This session allows experts to discuss methods for enhancing the delivery of science advice to both the public and policymakers.

Future Goals and International Collaboration

The 2024 CSAR aims to further strengthen international collaboration in science advisory practices. Future efforts, led by South Africa, will concentrate on bridging knowledge gaps, promoting open science, and enhancing the global exchange of scientific advice.

The 2024 Chief Science Advisers’ Roundtable is a crucial event for promoting global cooperation, transparency in science, and the sharing of scientific knowledge. It will significantly shape the future of international science policies and practices.