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The International Science Council (ISC) is launching the international initiative “Appeal for Science”, aimed at mobilising the global scientific community, public authorities, the business sector, and civil society in support of the essential role of science in sustainable development, peace, and societal well-being.
The initiative was launched following a meeting held in Chișinău on 16 April 2026 between the leadership of the International Science Council and representatives of the scientific community from the Romanian-speaking academic space. It takes the form of an open letter addressed to the international community. The document was developed under the auspices of the International Science Council, with contributions from the leadership of the Academy of Sciences of Moldova and the Romanian Academy, and benefits from the institutional support of the ISC, which will promote the Appeal through its global network of members, partners, and experts.
The Appeal is grounded in the reality that the world is undergoing a period marked by profound geopolitical transformations, multiple and interconnected crises, accelerated technological change, pressures on the environment and public health, as well as the growing spread of disinformation and distrust in knowledge. In this context, the initiators emphasise that science must be better integrated into public life, uphold the highest ethical standards, and become a stronger voice in informing decisions that shape the future of society.
The document highlights that the major challenges of the twenty-first century — climate change, global health, food and energy security, digital transformation, the development of artificial intelligence, and emerging geopolitical vulnerabilities — can be addressed only through international cooperation, dialogue, and the effective use of scientific knowledge. At the same time, the Appeal stresses that investment in research, education, and innovation is indispensable for resilience, prosperity, and social peace. It also advocates strengthening science communication, bringing science closer to society and young people, and combating disinformation by fostering a culture of respect for knowledge.
The authors of the Appeal call upon scientists, academic institutions, policymakers, the business community, and civil society to act together to strengthen the role of science as a global public good, reaffirming that a sustainable future cannot be built without research, education, and strong academic institutions.
Since July 2026, the Appeal has been available on the dedicated platform, www.appealforscience.com, where researchers from around the world are invited to express their support by signing the document. Between August and October 2026, the Academy of Sciences of Moldova, the Romanian Academy, and the International Science Council will conduct a broad international awareness campaign addressed to the scientific community, governments, international organisations, the business sector, and civil society. Prominent scientific organisations and personalities will also be contacted, including representatives of the Nobel Foundation and other prestigious institutions.
The campaign will culminate on 10 November 2026, on the occasion of World Science Day for Peace and Development, through a series of communication activities and a dedicated event aimed at promoting the message of the Appeal internationally. Subsequently, the partners will assess the impact of the campaign and draw on the experience gained to develop new initiatives for promoting science.
Cristina BUMBU
