Summary
Strengthening Geneva’s science–policy ecosystem and its capacity to govern emerging challenges at the diplomacy–technology nexus.
The Geneva Science-Policy Interface (GSPI) and the United Nations University Centre for Policy Research (UNU-CPR) have partnered to establish dedicated platforms for science-policy exchanges, with a particular emphasis on technology and innovation. These curated, informal engagement formats convene leading researchers and Geneva-based diplomats, to engage with policy-relevant scientific developments, while fostering dialogue, mutual trust and lasting collaboration across scientific and diplomatic communities.
The initiative builds on the complementary strengths of both institutions: UNU-CPR’s close engagement with the UN Scientific Advisory Board, UN processes and multilateral priorities; and the GSPI’s expertise in curating science-policy dialogue and mobilising policy-relevant scientific contributions. Together, they support the development of tailored knowledge products and learning opportunities across Geneva’s evolving multilateral landscape.
Technology is advancing faster than governance can adapt
The multilateral system is entering a critical decade. Scientific and technological breakthroughs are reshaping societies, economies and ecosystems at a pace that exceeds the capacity of existing governance frameworks to respond effectively. Diplomats are increasingly required to negotiate regulatory responses and anticipate the systematic implications of emerging innovations that remain difficult to monitor, often with limited resources and limited structured access to relevant expertise.
The challenge runs in both directions. Scientists working on policy-relevant issues often lack clear entry points into diplomatic processes. As a result, their insights rarely reach decision-makers when it matters most, and there are few institutionalised pathways for integrating scientific expertise into multilateral deliberations.
Trusted spaces where science and diplomacy meet
This initiative is designed to support Geneva-based diplomats by providing tailored scientific inputs and access to a trusted network of practitioners, while creating direct pathways for scientists to engage with the international policy community. It enables experts to contribute insights on rapidly evolving technological fields and to exchange with policy actors shaping corresponding regulatory frameworks.
Geneva as a hub for science–policy collaboration
By connecting cutting-edge expertise with the UN system in Geneva, the initiative contributes to the systematic integration of evidence into multilateral problem-solving processes. Leveraging Geneva’s unique ecosystem of international organisations, academic institutions, NGOs and diplomatic missions, it strengthens the city’s role as a global hub for science–policy collaboration.
Upcoming Science–Policy Briefings
9 June 2026- When AI Misleads: Managing Deceptive Capabilities in Advanced Systems
23 June 2026- Guardrailing AI: What Verification Entails for Frontier AI Models
August 2026- Mirror Biology: Emerging Science and Security Implications
October 2026- Environmental and Resource Implications of Deep-Sea Mining
November 2026- Green Chemistry and the Future of Sustainable Industry
Scientists interested in the initiative or in science-policy activities are invited to contact: melissa.gomis@unige.ch
Past Science–Policy Briefings
4 December 2025- The Quantum Leap and What It Means for Health Systems
21 November 2025- Neurotechnology and Its Implications for Health and Human Rights
29 October 2025- Synthetic Biology In the lead up to COP30: Synthetic Biology for Low-Carbon Fuels and Industrial Materials
June 2025- Health and Security Implications of Synthetic Biology
16th March 2026 - Carbon Dioxide Removal in the Post COP30 Landscape
More projects
Strengthening the Biological Weapons Convention by facilitating science-policy synergies
Shaping environmental policy in the pan-European region applying foresight methodologies
