Muscat, Oman, 30 January 2025 – The International Science Council (ISC) Third General Assembly (GA) 2025 concluded today, marking the end of two days of strategic discussions and decisions that will shape the future of global science cooperation. Bringing together ISC Member delegates, Fellows, and representatives from across the scientific community, the Assembly provided a critical platform to address key challenges and opportunities for science in the coming years.
Reflecting on the outcomes of the Assembly, ISC President Peter Gluckman highlighted the significance of the discussions, stating:
“This meeting would not have been possible without the generous support of the Sultanate of Oman, our esteemed host. We are deeply grateful for their exceptional assistance in organizing this event. Our sincere thanks go to the Sultan, the Royal Family, and Oman Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation for their support, as well as for their outstanding hospitality and commitment to advancing the work of the ISC.”
The Assembly focused on several critical areas, including the ISC Strategic Plan 2025–2028 and its associated budget, strengthening the Council’s regional presence through new regional antennas, and the adoption of final modifications to the ISC Statutes and Rules of Procedure.
Delegates also engaged in discussions directly linked to the priority areas introduced in the draft strategic plan. These priority areas included:
These deliberations provided valuable input to refine the Council’s strategic directions and ensure its initiatives align with the evolving needs of the global scientific community. Members highlighted critical issues related to Freedom and Responsibility in Science, including the free circulation of scientists, challenges with visa processes, and the need to strengthen the representation of diverse scientific communities.
Building on these discussions, dedicated membership fora for each category of ISC Members, including Early- and Mid-Career Researchers (EMCRs), ISC Fellows, and thematic groups provided spaces for discussion and input on key strategic priorities. Additionally, regional meetings for Latin America and the Caribbean, Africa, and Asia and the Pacific fostered collaborative planning and reinforced the ISC’s commitment to addressing regional scientific priorities.
ISC Members shared feedback and recommendations from their respective fora discussions, providing valuable insights into the refinement of the draft strategic plan and proposed modifications to the Council’s Statutes, including aspects related to ISC core values, committees, governance, and financial dues.
The new President-Elect Robbert Dijkgraaf, as well as several new ISC Governing Board members took office, following the conclusion of the General Assembly.
The Assembly underscored the ISC’s ongoing efforts to navigate the evolving global scientific landscape and reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to ensuring that science remains a cornerstone of policy and societal decision-making. As the ISC looks ahead, the discussions and outcomes of this General Assembly will guide its initiatives and collaborations in the years to come, strengthening the voice of science on the global stage.
With the successful conclusion of the Third General Assembly, the ISC now turns to implementing its new strategic directions, reinforcing its global networks, and advancing its mission to promote science as a global public good.
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