Representatives of science from more than 50 countries and international organisations were present at the ministerial meeting, including countries not amongst the 38 OECD members as well. The ministers addressed topics which are highly relevant for EuChemS and for the chemistry community in general as well. One such theme was open science, and its international aspects, while another subject investigated how an agenda for science, technology and innovation can transform green transition. The former discussion involved how the paradox of scientific openness being in conflict with other policy objectives, such as securitisation, and also highlighted the differences between countries’ capacities of contributing to and exploiting open science. The latter involved talking points on Science, Technology, and innovation (STI)’s involvement in green policymaking, and attendees were asked to provide best practises. In addition, a session was held on collaboration and competition. Importantly, another session was tied to OECD’s new Framework for Anticipatory Governance of Emerging Technologies: this document outlines a new policy approach, in light of the rapid development of new tech, such as Artificial Intelligence and quantum computing. Attending Science Ministers endorsed this approach, which highlights that the societal impact of emerging technologies should be assessed before they enter the mainstream.
The High-Level Multi-stakeholder forum broadened the dialogue, involving a wide number of non-governement stakeholders as well. The debates involved a wide variety of participants, ranging from academia and industry to civil society. The forum was meant to complement the ministerial meeting, as well as serve as an opportunity for high-level stakeholders to connect.
Coupled with the meetings, on 22 April, the OECD Global Science Forum held High-level a symposium on international cooperation in research infrastructures, alongside the OECD Global Forum on Technology hosting a high-level expert meeting on biotechnology, amongst other parallel events.
