High-profile patrons join the International Science Council to advance science as a global public good

A Patron to the ISC is a prestigious title given to those who support science as a global public good, by dedicating their time to promote science and its potential to deliver knowledge which can inform transformative political and wider societal responses to contemporary global challenges.

The ISC is the only international non-governmental organization bringing together the natural and social sciences which works at the global level to catalyse and convene scientific expertise, advice and influence on major issues of concern to both science and society. The Patrons will use their international standing and influence to assist the ISC in articulating the social, political, economic and cultural values of science to both policy makers and the public alike, in order to address global challenges such as climate change, sustainability, disaster risk reduction, urban health and well-being, inequality and poverty.

“We are honoured to have such distinguished and celebrated individuals as our first Patrons”, Professor Daya Reddy, President of the ISC said.  “Their role will be to amplify the voice of science at the international level, inter alia providing a counterpoint to the anti-science movement by championing the public value of science”.

“Through our distinguished Patrons, and our vast membership, we will forge an era of strengthened collaboration across national and disciplinary boundaries that will propel science to the forefront of policy-making at this time of pressing global challenges”, Professor Reddy said.

“We need science to empower citizens’ active engagement in finding the solutions to the climate emergency, especially from poor and vulnerable communities”, Mrs Robinson said.  “There has never been a more important time for an organisation with the global reach of the International Science Council and I am delighted to be its Patron”.

“This is a pivotal moment in history where the global scientific community must come together and respond sensibly and firmly to developments such as populism and post-truth”, Mr Serageldin said.  “I am honoured to be a Patron of the ISC and will advocate open and accessible science as a way of driving breakthroughs for the benefit of people everywhere, particularly in the global south.”

Find out more about ISC Patron Mary Robinson.

Find out more about ISC Patron Ismail Serageldin.

Note for journalists: Please contact ISC Science Director, Mathieu Denis [email protected] for more information on the appointment of the patrons. Find out more about us in the ISC introductory brochure and on these pages.