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Today the Science, Innovation and Technology Committee launches an inquiry into science diplomacy.
New inquiry: Science diplomacy
Science diplomacy covers efforts to enhance international relationships, further national interests and address global challenges via scientific collaboration across borders.
Science diplomacy has taken on greater importance in the UK as part of the government’s strategy to position the country on the world stage post-Brexit and is increasingly included as a goal in national and intergovernmental strategies.
This inquiry will explore the UK’s science diplomacy and how the government should leverage scientific research and innovation to support its diplomatic goals, growth missions and to contribute to national security. It will investigate the role of science diplomacy in the current geopolitical environment, and how the UK’s strategy is shifting in response to the international activities of Russia and China, as well as the policies of the Trump administration.
The committee will examine the government’s strategy for international science, and how this can enhance the UK’s national brand and influence and the inquiry will cover areas such as space exploration, particle physics and vaccine development.
The inquiry’s launch follows the committee’s visit to CERN (the European Organisation for Nuclear Research) in Geneva in early March. CERN operates the largest particle physics laboratory in the world, bringing together a large number of member states and associates in a prominent example of international scientific cooperation.
During their visit, committee members met with scientists and researchers based at CERN and toured its facilities, including the Large Hadron Collider.
Members discussed CERN’s place as an international scientific hub, as well as the geopolitical and diplomatic challenges it faces. The committee heard about its future work and funding considerations, and how it fosters innovation.
Chair comment
Chair of the Science, Innovation and Technology Committee, Chi Onwurah MP**,** said:
“The committee’s visit to CERN showcased science diplomacy in action. CERN has helped build relationships of trust and co-operation between nations and led to ground-breaking innovations in particle physics and beyond. I was proud to hear about the UK’s commitment and involvement with CERN, as well as how our economy and science sector has benefited from the facility’s work.
"In a post-Brexit world, science diplomacy is more important than ever: it's a critical way that the UK can build bridges with other nations and bolster our soft power.
“The UK punching far above its weight in scientific research and innovation. How can we leverage this world-class scientific base to boost the UK’s influence abroad? How are geopolitical shifts, like the activities of Russia and China, and the Trump administration, impacting the UK’s science diplomacy strategy?
“We'll also consider the economic and strategic benefits from international collaborations like CERN, space initiatives and vaccine development, and how science diplomacy can attract investment into the UK.”
Terms of reference
The committee welcomes written submissions on some or all of the following points by 11:59pm on 9 May 2025.
To what extent is the UK considered a global leader in science and innovation and how does this contribute to its soft power on the global stage?
How has this agenda been impacted by the current geopolitical environment, including the international activities of Russia and China?
How effective is the UK Government’s strategy for positioning the UK as a global leader in science and technology and what role does the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) play in advancing this agenda?
How well positioned is the government to link scientific and technological progress with enhanced global and UK security?
What impact will the rebranded Science and Technology Network have on the UK’s global position?
How can the impact of science diplomacy activities be measured, particularly in terms of enhancing national branding, fostering international influence, and contributing to conflict resolution?
Further information
About Parliament: Select committees
Visiting Parliament: Watch committees
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