G7 Science and Technology Ministers Reaffirm Commitment to Open Science for a Sustainable Future

G7 Science and Technology Ministers Reaffirm Commitment to Open Science for a Sustainable Future 1024 395 Open and Universal Science (OPUS) Project

Bologna and Forlì, July 9-11, 2024

The G7 Science and Technology Ministers convened in Bologna and Forlì, Italy, from July 9 to 11, 2024, underscoring the critical importance of science, technology, innovation, higher education, and advanced training in fostering a sustainable future. Their shared vision is rooted in democracy, international law, human rights, fairness, and freedom.

Reinforcing Collaboration and Support for Ukraine

In light of the ongoing war in Ukraine, the ministers emphasized the importance of supporting Ukraine’s research and innovation ecosystem, which has suffered severe damage. They committed to coordinated support efforts, acknowledging the role of science, technology, and innovation in rebuilding Ukraine. This will be a key focus at the upcoming Ukraine Recovery Conference in 2025 in Italy.

Emphasizing the Role of Science and Technology in Global Goals

The ministers reiterated the vital role of science and technology in achieving the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals, the Paris Agreement, and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. They endorsed the Declaration on Transformative Science, Technology, and Innovation Policies for a Sustainable and Inclusive Future, highlighting the need for international cooperation in tackling global crises such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pandemics.

Promoting Open Science and Research Integrity

Research Security and Integrity

The G7 emphasized the importance of research security and integrity in international collaborations. They stressed the need for effective risk mitigation measures to protect against foreign interference in research and innovation. The ministers commended the achievements of the G7 Security and Integrity of the Global Research Ecosystem (SIGRE) Working Group and supported the continuation of its dialogue through the G7 Virtual Academy Oversight Board.

Freedom and Inclusiveness in Scientific Research

The ministers underscored the value of open science in driving innovation and problem-solving. They advocated for the equitable and responsible dissemination of scientific knowledge and research outputs, promoting access to publicly funded scholarly publications and scientific data. The ongoing work of the Open Science Working Group was lauded for enhancing the productivity and quality of FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable) research outputs.

Science Communication

The importance of responsible science communication was highlighted as a means to enhance public trust and inform evidence-based policies. The G7 Working Group on Science Communication aims to improve the quality and effectiveness of science communication, addressing the grand challenges of our time.

Strengthening Large Research Infrastructures

Large research infrastructures play a strategic role in generating, sharing, and evaluating scientific data. The ministers pledged to strengthen collaborations in this area, recognizing the importance of interdisciplinary contributions. They supported the Group of Senior Officials (GSO) on Global Research Infrastructures in advancing global dialogue and best practices.

Advancing Research on Emerging Technologies, Nuclear Energy, and Space

New and Emerging Technologies

The G7 emphasized the need for research in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), quantum technology, advanced materials, synthetic biology, and robotics to address societal challenges and drive the green and digital transitions. They advocated for responsible research and technology transfer, emphasizing international collaboration.

Nuclear Fission and Fusion Energy

The ministers acknowledged the potential of fission and fusion energy to address climate change and energy security. They called for further research and human resource development in nuclear safety, security, and safeguards.

Space Collaboration

The G7 reaffirmed their commitment to sustainable space use, addressing orbital debris, and enhancing space situational awareness. They supported international guidelines for space activities and encouraged further research and development in space technologies.

Enhancing Research and Innovation Cooperation with Africa

The ministers recognized the importance of equitable access to knowledge and skills development, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. They focused on strengthening collaborations with African countries, aligning efforts with the African Union’s Science, Technology, and Innovation Strategy for Africa 2034. They promoted mobility initiatives for researchers and supported the development of research infrastructures in Africa.

Addressing Ocean and Biodiversity Challenges

The G7 emphasized the importance of global ocean research and observations in addressing climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. They supported the development of Digital Twins of the Ocean capabilities and the inclusion of local and traditional knowledge in marine resource management. The ministers committed to strengthening international cooperation in polar and deep-sea research and supporting the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.

G7 Ministers Reaffirm Commitment to Open Science and Global Collaboration

The G7 Science and Technology Ministers’ Meeting in 2024 highlighted the critical role of open science, research integrity, and international collaboration in addressing global challenges. By reinforcing their commitment to these principles, the ministers aim to promote a sustainable and inclusive future for all.

Read the full G7 statement here.

Privacy Preferences

When you visit our website, it may store information through your browser from specific services, usually in the form of cookies. Our Privacy Policy can be read here.

Here you can change your Privacy preferences. It is worth noting that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on our website and the services we are able to offer.

Click to enable/disable Google Analytics tracking code.
Click to enable/disable Google Fonts.
Click to enable/disable Google Maps.
Click to enable/disable video embeds.
Our website uses cookies, mainly from 3rd party services. Define your Privacy Preferences and/or agree to our use of cookies.