A New Blueprint for Global Science Beyond 2030
More than 1,000 representatives from 88 countries and regions converged in Beijing from October 19–23, 2026, to forge a unified path for international research. The International Science Council (ISC) Midterm Members’ Meeting, hosted for the first time in the Chinese capital, sought to define the trajectory of global scientific development in the period following 2030. Under the theme “Science in a Complex World – Science for a Better Future,” the summit functioned as both a governance session and a high-level diplomatic forum.
The Beijing Science Declaration
At the center of the summit sat the Beijing Science Declaration, a document designed to reshape international policy. By advocating for an open, inclusive, and collaborative global system, the declaration positions mutual respect as the essential cornerstone of scientific progress. The declaration calls for a shared vision of global scientific development beyond 2030 and will subsequently be shared with the United Nations and the wider international community through the ISC and other channels.
ISC President Peter Gluckman emphasized the urgency of this mission. He noted that in a more fractured world, science can use its power as a universal language to reduce tensions, focus discussion on long-term thinking, and address the broader sustainability agenda. The summit unveiled five major scientific achievements and outputs in areas including sustainable development, archaeological science, scientific journals, and basic research.
Elevating the Next Generation of Researchers
Recognizing that current research workflows are shifting, the Global Young Academy (GYA) ran a parallel program focused on early- and mid-career researchers (EMCRs). Co-Chairs Natisha Dukhi and Francesco Maurelli directed workshops on AI readiness and science communication, alongside panel discussions on integrating AI into research.
These sessions were designed to ensure that younger voices remain central to high-level discussions on scientific priorities. The GYA program concluded on October 22 with a dedicated forum, followed by a site visit to the International Research Center of Big Data for Sustainable Development Goals to identify future collaborative opportunities.
A Two-Phase Diplomatic Framework
The event was structured into two distinct phases. The Beijing Science Dialogue, running from October 19–21, dissected three core themes: “Science as a Global Public Good,” “Responsible Artificial Intelligence for Global Challenges,” and “Science, Society, and Trust.” Following this, the ISC Midterm Members’ Meeting shifted the focus to internal governance and policy discussions from October 22–23.
The gathering was the result of a multi-institutional effort, co-organized by the China Association for Science and Technology, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, and the Beijing Municipal People’s Government.
The Scope of Participation
The 2026 assembly drew an expansive roster of attendees, including Nobel Laureates, former international officials, and academic leaders. By gathering representatives from both natural and social science disciplines, the ISC aimed to bridge the divide between current research hurdles and future global policy-making. With the Beijing Science Declaration now established as a framework, the council looks toward a post-2030 agenda that emphasizes cooperation between the state, society, and the scientific community.
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