Global science community to gather in Mozambique

More than 250 leading scientists from around the world will come together at this unique event to discuss and address how science can contribute to solving some of the most pressing challenges facing society, including: human health; hazards and disasters; and ecosystem change and human well-being. The ICSU GA also provides a forum for discussing issues that affect scientists, including: freedom, responsibility and conduct in science; and management of data and information.

The event begins on Tuesday 21 October with the official welcoming and opening by Professor Goverdhan Mehta (India), President of ICSU; H.E. Armando Guebuza, President of Mozambique; and Dr Patricio Sande, President of Scientific Research Association of Mozambique (AICIMO).

The agenda for the next three days includes discussions and decisions on:

• Major new international programmes on ‘Integrated Research on Disaster Risk’ and ‘Ecosystem Change and Human Well-being’
• Endorsement of a new booklet on ‘Freedom, Responsibility and Universality of Science’
• Establishment of a new ICSU-World Data System to provide quality-assessed data and data services to the international scientific community
• The legacy of the International Polar Year (IPY 2007–08)
• The enhanced involvement of social sciences in ICSU and its programmes

The 29th ICSU GA also incorporates the formal hand-over of the ICSU Presidency to Professor Catherine Bréchignac (France), as well as the election of the President-Elect and other Officers.

Event: 29th ICSU General Assembly

Date: 21–24 October 2008

Venue: Centro Internacional de Conferências ‘Joaquim Chissano’ Maputo, Mozambique

A press conference will be held at the venue on Thursday 23 October, 13.00–14.15 (local time).

The 29th ICSU GA and associated events are being hosted by AICIMO—the ICSU National Scientific Member in Mozambique—under the auspices of the Government of Mozambique and in cooperation with the ICSU Regional Office for Africa.