Science Diplomacy; The Past and Future of International Diplomacy

Science diplomacy as a concept encompasses more than the words science and diplomacy signify on their own. During the tumultuous period between the Second World War, The Cold War and the dawn of the millennium, a vast array of scientific, technological, and medical advances were made. This is the period in which science diplomacy came into full force. It is critical to make the distinction that science diplomacy does not exclusively refer to wartime diplomacy or nuclear weapon negotiations. In examining the rich but not often labeled historical illustrations of science diplomacy, as well as modern case studies I will show that science diplomacy is a key part of past, present and future international diplomacy. In doing so, I will also analyze and critique the role of science diplomacy in international diplomatic relations. Case studies of penicillin development, CERN, COVID-19, and the climate crisis are presented. With an emphasis on the Global South and the decolonization of science diplomacy, my aim is to bring the complex history, accomplishments, and failures of science diplomacy into focus. With the goal to inform policymakers, political actors, and researchers about the possibilities and limitations of science diplomacy, I examine the question: is science diplomacy an effective tool in the management of global crises?