International Science Council Statement on Ukraine

Paris, France

28 February 2022

The ISC expresses its deep dismay and concerns regarding the military offensives being carried out in Ukraine. This conflict has already generated a grave humanitarian crisis.

Science has proven to act as a platform for dialogue even in times of war, and therefore is a resource on which to capitalize to avoid further loss of life and disruption including that to scientific research and infrastructures. The ISC counts members in all countries involved in this conflict.

At a time when the demand and the potential for science to provide actionable knowledge to our global challenges on multiple fronts – climate change, the COVID-19 pandemic, and growing inequalities – are greater than ever, the current conflict in Ukraine and its consequences will hamper the power of science to solve problems when we should be harnessing it.

The ISC also warns against the severe outcomes that conflict will have on the research and academic community. Our capacity to work collaboratively on global challenges, and on cutting edge research such as Arctic and space research, is only equal to our capacity to maintain strong collaboration amidst geopolitical turmoil. Ultimately the isolation and exclusion of important scientific communities is detrimental to all.

The ISC and its partners are committed to assisting the global scientific community in welcoming and protecting scientists who have been placed at-risk or become displaced by this conflict by providing them opportunities to continue their work.

The ISC is committed to continue advancing the equal participation and collaboration between scientists in all countries in its activities and the principle of the free and responsible practice of science which is enshrined in its statutes.

Download the full statement