Over the past fifteen years, science and research have increasingly emerged as key players in the complex field of international relations, serving as essential tools for dialogue and global cooperation.

Although it may seem unusual to think of scientists and researchers as new ambassadors, scientific diplomacy is becoming an increasingly valuable instrument, capable of fostering growth opportunities for developing countries and creating the conditions needed to tackle the major challenges of our time – challenges that require collaboration between nations.

This innovative interaction between foreign policy and scientific research includes activities such as promoting international scientific cooperation, attracting researchers to universities and research centres, developing shared scientific infrastructures, and providing technical expertise for the development of public policy.

In recent years, the University of Trieste has strengthened its commitment to scientific diplomacy, developing a structured approach involving academics, diplomats, and representatives of international cooperation networks and initiatives.

A key milestone in this journey was the technical roundtable held on 7th March, organised by the University of Trieste and attended by Giuseppe Pastorelli, Deputy Director General for the Country Promotion System at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI).

'Science brings people together: it addresses problems and enhances international reputation, but above all it strengthens relations between countries and enables the sharing and advancement of knowledge,’ explained Pastorelli during his address at the University of Trieste.

According to this senior official from the Ministry, Trieste is a prime example of scientific diplomacy: ‘It hosts the most significant international scientific system in Italy and is therefore a key pillar of our diplomacy for growth. The Trieste hub offers the Global South a gateway to innovation and cutting-edge research, enabling Italy to contribute to development and maintain a strong network in its relations with the Global South.’

The event, held in the presence of Vice Rector Valter Sergo and coordinated by Prof. Ilaria Micheli, Deputy Rector for Development Cooperation, along with Prof. Simone Arnaldi, marked a stage in a journey initiated by the University in May 2024 with an initial workshop on scientific diplomacy. This event brought together academics, diplomats, and representatives of projects focused on sustainable development, support for refugee scholars, education, knowledge transfer, and international cooperation.

Following this initial exchange, the first version of a background document was drafted and subsequently shared with the academic community to gather additional input and feedback. The process continued with another round of discussion on 16th September 2024 during a technical roundtable with Prof. Pierre-Bruno Ruffini, a French economist and Co-President of the European Union Science Diplomacy Alliance. On that occasion, the document was further developed and reviewed before being submitted to the University’s governance in its final version.

The technical roundtable of 7th March provided an opportunity to reflect on the progress made in scientific diplomacy during the outgoing six-year governance period of the University. The meeting allowed the University of Trieste to present the work carried out over recent months, outlining guidelines for future international research agreements, and also facilitated a constructive and educational dialogue with national institutions and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.