Science in Global Governance and International Cooperation

Scientific evidence is proving to be of increasing importance in identifying, understanding and effectively addressing a variety of complex international issues. Whilst international cooperation and science have a long history, a theoretical understanding of how diplomats make sense, configure and utilize scientific knowledge in negotiating international agreements, is yet to be fully developed. Focusing on several sets of international negotiations, addressing issues rooted in science, this project aims to understand how scientific knowledge has been incorporated into diplomatic practice. The case studies analysed will include climate change, the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons as well as tobacco control. The paper will focus on the diplomats representing the European Union and the United States. The project will work to uncover whether certain patterns can be established in relation to how scientific evidence has been utilized by European and American diplomats in the process of negotiating these issues. Asking whether fundamental changes have occurred in the way in which diplomacy is conducted, the project will ultimately work to further develop the theory of diplomacy by establishing science in diplomacy firmly within it.