Denmark's commitment to Scientific Freedom and the Safety of Scientists

UNESCO, in collaboration with the Netherlands, organized a side-event to celebrate the momentum. During the event, Danish Minister for Higher Education and Science, Christina Egelund, emphasized UNESCO's role in fostering a freer research culture at both national and global levels, emphasizing its increasing necessity. Martin Bille Hermann, the Danish Ambassador to UNESCO, highlighted how the Call to Action acts as a blueprint for a coalition-based approach and lays the groundwork for a much-needed operational framework to drive collective action.

Denmark's longstanding Commitment

Denmark has welcomed the new Programme and the Call to Action as top priorities, aligning with its longstanding commitment to promoting and protecting key change-makers capable of inspiring transformation, including scientists, journalists, and artists - critical voices for societal progress.

The Need for Informed Action

While we do have the evidence to prove the alarming state of affairs, we lack sufficient data to inform appropriate responses. Strengthening global understanding through enhanced data collection will build a strong case. Recognizing scientists as a group at risk is pivotal for comprehensive UN-wide action. The Danish report, Critical Voices, Chapter 5, proposes new ways to utilise UNESCO’s normative frameworks through recommendations. These recommendations seek to enhance the global data collection through already existing mechanisms.

Our Strategic Initiatives

1. UNESCO Consultations on the 2017 Recommendation on Science and Scientific Researchers:These consultations delve into the delicate balance between the freedoms, rights, and responsibilities of researchers. In the upcoming consultations a diverse stakeholder engagement approach will be crucial to yield valuable and important insights

2. Database on UN System Recommendations: Denmark has established a comprehensive database cataloguing recommendations geared towards improving the conditions for scientists. This resource outlines pathways for UN-coordinated actions at the national level.

3. Upcoming Desk-Study on 'Critical Roles': This study, led by Denmark through its membership on UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Council, explores the pivotal role of scientists in addressing planetary crises, focusing on the intersection of governance, nature, and scientific freedom.

Read more about it here and watch the event below.