Science Diplomacy – Can we help the world align through science?

  • July 7, 2026 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
  • Debate, Discussion
  • The Attlee Suite, House of Commons
Science Diplomacy – Can we help the world align through science?

Science diplomacy can be a tool and practice that strengthens relations between nations. The concept emerged in the last 20 years and is a fundamental element in the UK Government’s strategy to position post-Brexit Britain on the global stage. It is also the focus of an imminent inquiry reported on and published by the Science, Innovation and Technology Select Committee (SITSC). In this event, held in collaboration with SITSC and Sense about Science, we will explore the science diplomacy inquiry, using its recommendations as a starting point for wider discussion.

In a fast-changing and often volatile world, how can scientific research and international relations align to promote national interests and international alliances?

Dame Chi Onwurah MP
Labour Shadow Minister for the Industrial Strategy, Science and Innovation and MP for Newcastle Central
George Freeman MP
MP for Mid-Norfolk, House of Commons
Emily Darlington
MP for Milton Keynes Central
Sir Peter Knight
Senior Research Investigator , Physics Department, Imperial College
Professor Charlotte Watts FMedSci
Executive Director of Solutions , Wellcome Trust
The Rt Hon the Lord Willetts FRS
Chair, The Foundation for Science and Technology