EU Member States define a new framework for science diplomacy

On 29 May 2026, EU Member States (Council of the EU) adopted a recommendation outlining a new European Union framework for science diplomacy.

The new framework aims to strengthen the Union’s position as a global leader in science and technology, and to use scientific cooperation to advance its foreign policy objectives. The recommendation emphasises the the Council’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with the global south to support research capacity and address shared global challenges, with a specific proposal for the creation of a Mediterranean science diplomacy centre. It encourages member states to support the coordination of science diplomacy and foster linkages between diplomatic services and research institutions. It also requests that the Commission strengthen its monitoring and assessment of global developments in research, technology and innovation.

In the official press release, science diplomacy is defined as "the direct or indirect use of science, scientific evidence and scientific cooperation to inform and support foreign policy at different levels, as well as to the deployment of diplomacy to support and promote international cooperation and scientific progress".