The recent confluence of escalating geopolitical tensions and the lingering global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has unequivocally underscored a critical imperative: the urgent need to fortify global capacity in science diplomacy and enhance the provision of scientific advice to governmental bodies worldwide. In response to this pressing demand, Quebec, through its dedicated research funding agency, le Fonds de recherche du Québec (FRQ), in collaboration with the provincial Office of the Chief Scientist, has initiated a landmark competitive process to establish eight university-based research chairs. These chairs are specifically tasked with delving into the multifaceted aspects and inherent challenges of scientific diplomacy. This groundbreaking initiative, representing one of the most extensive networks of its kind globally, was formally unveiled in Montreal on March 25th, marking a significant stride in advancing this crucial field.
The Growing Imperative for Science Diplomacy
The concept of science diplomacy, though gaining substantial traction over the past two decades, has seen its relevance amplified by recent global events. Beyond its role in mitigating the disruptions stemming from geopolitical friction, science diplomacy serves as a vital instrument for addressing a spectrum of critical global issues. These include the unprecedented pace of artificial intelligence development, the existential threat of climate change, persistent global health crises, pervasive food insecurity, destabilizing democratic challenges, and the complex governance of emerging technologies. The establishment of this new network of science diplomacy chairs is designed to cement Quebec’s leadership in this rapidly evolving domain. It aims to create a robust framework for pioneering research programs, fostering synergistic collaborations both within the province and with international partners, thereby contributing to a more informed and effective global response to shared challenges.
A Strategic Investment in Global Engagement
The FRQ’s commitment to science diplomacy is not a nascent endeavor but rather builds upon a series of strategic initiatives aimed at integrating scientific expertise into policy and diplomatic spheres. Prior programs have successfully provided recent PhD graduates with invaluable hands-on experience in science advisory roles within local governments, provincial ministries, and 15 diplomatic offices abroad. This pipeline of talent is crucial for ensuring that scientific insights are effectively translated into actionable policy. Rémi Quirion, President of the International Network on Governmental Science Advice (INGSA), an organization significantly supported by the Quebec government and active in over 130 countries, particularly in the Global South, exemplifies the broader reach and impact of Quebec’s investment in this area. INGSA’s mission to foster evidence-informed policymaking globally resonates deeply with the objectives of the new research chairs.
Structuring for International Collaboration and Impact
A core tenet of the science diplomacy chair program is its inherently international structure. The proposed research projects are mandated to secure international funding and to convene researchers and institutions from a diverse range of countries. This collaborative framework is designed to enable the execution of research programs that would otherwise be unattainable without global cooperation. Furthermore, the chairs are tasked with the vital mission of training the next generation of researchers and science diplomats, equipping them with the skills and understanding necessary to navigate the complex landscape of international science policy. A key objective is to facilitate the transfer of knowledge to diplomats, policymakers, and public agencies, ensuring that cutting-edge scientific understanding is effectively applied to real-world challenges.
The chairs are committed to fostering a collaborative environment amongst themselves, ensuring the network’s efficacy and actively working towards its expansion over time. This ambitious undertaking signifies Quebec’s proactive approach to shaping the future of global governance through the strategic application of scientific knowledge.
Spotlight on Pioneering Research Chairs
Two of the eight newly established chairs exemplify the breadth and depth of the research agenda:
International Science Diplomacy Research Chair for Arctic and Space Cooperation
Led by Pooneh Maghoul at Polytechnique Montréal, the International Science Diplomacy Research Chair for Arctic and Space Cooperation presents a compelling model for how scientific expertise can effectively inform governance in domains characterized by rapid evolution and significant geopolitical implications. This chair spearheads a case-driven research program that meticulously integrates scientific, legal, engineering, Indigenous, and diplomatic perspectives. The aim is to confront the parallel geopolitical and environmental challenges unfolding in the northern circumpolar regions and in outer space.
The program is dedicated to cultivating a new cadre of "techno-diplomats" adept at navigating complex issues such as climate disruptions, the escalating proliferation of activities in outer space, vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure, and the limitations of existing legal frameworks. Central to this initiative is the development of a scientific platform designed to facilitate cooperation in extreme environments. This platform is complemented by comprehensive training pathways that emphasize experiential learning, intercultural understanding, and engagement informed by Indigenous knowledge systems.
A significant component of this chair’s work involves shaping emerging legal norms that govern resource utilization and infrastructure development in both the Arctic and outer space. The robust training ecosystem includes two flagship programs: the Next-Generation Techno-Diplomats Summer School and the Lab-to-Policy initiative. These programs are designed to empower trainees to effectively bridge the gap between technology, predictive analytics, and policy formulation, ultimately contributing to the creation of protocols, assessments, and practical toolkits for addressing complex global challenges. The chair’s initial projects are poised to address critical questions surrounding resource management in the Arctic and the establishment of sustainable practices in space exploration, areas where international cooperation is not only desirable but essential.
Chair on "Science Diplomacy" and Global Governance of Artificial Intelligence
The Chair on "Science Diplomacy" and Global Governance of Artificial Intelligence, spearheaded by Catherine Régis at the Université de Montréal, proposes an innovative exploration of how science diplomacy can be leveraged as a transformative approach to AI governance. Concurrently, it investigates how artificial intelligence itself can serve as a tool to empower those engaged in science diplomacy to achieve their objectives more effectively.
This chair is committed to generating actionable knowledge that will directly support the work of scientists, governments, diplomats, international organizations, and other stakeholders. This support will manifest through the development of targeted measures designed to help these actors achieve their objectives and the creation of practical tools. These tools include a dynamic map of global AI governance initiatives, concise policy briefs, and specialized training programs focused on the appropriate and ethical application of AI in their respective activities.
To realize its ambitious program, the chair will draw upon an extensive international network of researchers possessing complementary expertise across disciplines such as international law, international relations, artificial intelligence, ethics, communication, economics, and data science. Its activities will be strategically aligned with other significant initiatives, including the recently established United Nations advisory committee, UNESCO’s Global AI Ethics and Governance Observatory, and FRQ’s own observatory on the societal impacts of AI (OBVIA). This interconnected approach ensures that the research generated by this chair will have broad relevance and contribute to a cohesive global strategy for AI governance. The chair’s work is particularly timely, given the rapid advancements in AI and the increasing need for international consensus on ethical guidelines and regulatory frameworks.
A Network Poised for Global Impact
The eight science diplomacy chairs, each with distinct approaches and research themes, and drawing contributors from every continent, are collectively positioned to make substantial contributions to this rapidly evolving field of research and practical action. The Office of the Chief Scientist and the FRQ are committed to providing these chairs with the necessary support to maximize their impact, both individually and as a cohesive and innovative network. The establishment of this network represents a significant investment by Quebec in fostering a more collaborative, informed, and scientifically grounded approach to addressing the world’s most pressing challenges. The diversity of focus areas, from the unique environmental and geopolitical complexities of the Arctic and space to the pervasive influence of artificial intelligence and the fundamental need for food security, underscores the comprehensive nature of this initiative.
Broader Implications and Future Outlook
The establishment of this network of science diplomacy chairs is more than just an academic exercise; it is a strategic move to position Quebec as a global leader in a field that is increasingly critical for international stability and progress. By investing in research and training, Quebec is cultivating the intellectual capital necessary to navigate the intricate web of global challenges. The emphasis on international collaboration and knowledge transfer ensures that the insights generated will have tangible impacts, informing policy decisions and fostering cooperation across borders.
The long-term implications of this initiative are far-reaching. It has the potential to strengthen diplomatic ties through shared scientific endeavors, to build bridges between diverse cultures and perspectives through collaborative research, and to equip future leaders with the skills to address complex global issues with evidence-based solutions. As the world grapples with interconnected crises, the role of science diplomacy, amplified by initiatives like Quebec’s research chair network, will only become more vital in charting a course towards a more sustainable and equitable future. The commitment to ongoing collaboration and expansion of the network suggests a sustained effort to adapt and respond to emerging global needs, solidifying Quebec’s position at the forefront of this critical area of international engagement.
Table 1: The Eight Chairs of the Science Diplomacy Network
| Chair Title | Quebec University | Quebec Chairholder | Co-researchers’ Institutions |
|---|---|---|---|
| International Science Diplomacy Research Chair for Arctic and Space Cooperation | Polytechnique Montréal | Pooneh Maghoul | United Nations University – Institute for Water, Environment and Health, Université Paris Saclay, Science Diplomacy Center |
| Chair on "Science diplomacy" and Global Governance of Artificial Intelligence | Université de Montréal | Catherine Régis | HEC Montréal, Universidad de los Andes, University of Oxford, Umea University, Università di Bologna, Université de Genève, University of Cambridge – Jesus College, Université de Yaoundé 2, Université numérique Cheikh Hamidou Kane, Université d’Abomey-Calavi |
| Science diplomacy Chair in Fisheries Stock Dynamics and Management | Université du Québec à Rimouski | Dominique Robert | University of Tokyo |
| The Food Convergence Innovation Africa Network (FCI-Africa): An International Science Diplomacy Initiative for Food Security | McGill University | Ebenezer Kwofie | International Food Policy Research Institute, African Academy of Sciences, University of Pretoria, CSIR Science & Technology Policy Research Institute |
| Climate Science Diplomacy Research Chair: Knowledge, Technology and Governance | Université de Sherbrooke | Annie Chaloux | Université Laval, Université Grenoble Alpes, National Institute for Research in Digital Science and Technology (INRIA), Frontline Associates Training Center, Copticom |
| Science Diplomacy Research Chair on Inclusion in Early Childhood Education | Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières | Carmen Dionne | Universidad CES, Universidad del Rosario, Université Cheikh Anta Diop de Dakar |
| Research Chair in Science Diplomacy and Indigenous Knowledge Systems | Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue | Hugo Asselin | Council for Scientific and Industrial Research |
| Science Diplomacy Research Chair | Université Laval | Anna-Lena Rüland | Sorbonne Université |
