Speaking notes
Dr. Mona Nemer
Chief Science Advisor of Canada
Promoting Science, Strengthening Diplomacy
Keynote Address at the Johns Hopkins Science Diplomacy Summit
Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg Center
Washington, D.C.
April 14, 2025
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Bonjour, good morning everyone. It’s great to be here at this incredible institution — the oldest research university in America — and one that has given the world so much. From Nobel laureates to Olympians, from world leaders to scientists and innovators, the impact of Johns Hopkins alumni has been felt throughout the world for nearly a century and a half.
I have always valued my visits to the university, whether to participate in professional activities or exchange with colleagues and collaborators. In fact, I almost took a faculty position here many years ago. It’s also wonderful to be in D.C., where I got my first job in a biotech startup. Many of us here have cross-trained in different countries and are keenly sensitive to the international outreach that happens through science.
In many ways, science and diplomacy have much in common. From the opportunities to learn about the world through people-to-people understanding, to working together beyond borders for a better world. I know of few other careers besides these that allow one to have deep friendships around the world. This is why science and diplomacy should be natural best friends!
This science diplomacy summit is bringing together people from around the world who are working to promote science for the greater good—whether through research, teaching, innovation or public service. I am very much looking forward to two days of rich exchanges.
Like many of you, I have been doing, using and promoting science my whole life—as a student fighting for the creation of a science curriculum in my all-girls middle school; as a teenager fleeing civil war in Lebanon to continue my science studies in America; as an educator, supporting students to pursue their passion for research and discovery; and now, as a science ambassador, promoting science for good governance and diplomacy.
We are here today at a time when science and technology have captured the attention of countries and populations alike — for different reasons, some good and some not so good. At the same time, the need for science and technology to address our global challenges has never been greater. Which is why our work to promote science and diplomacy has never been more vital.
Science is a global and collaborative effort, and in this sense can and should be a cornerstone of diplomatic relations. Environmental deterioration, biodiversity loss, food insecurity, health crises and the threat of pandemics are all issues that require collaboration and coordination between researchers, industry and governments.
On the other hand, the development of new and powerful technologies, whether biological or digital — think biotechnology and genetic engineering or machine learning and artificial intelligence — necessitates international frameworks to reap maximal social benefits for all, while mitigating ill use. It is only through global cooperation that we will realize the full promise of science and technology for a better world.
There has been much in the news recently about the world’s economic system amid ongoing conflicts, geopolitical tensions and looming trade wars. And it is becoming increasingly evident that science and technology are instrumental for economic prosperity. In some ways, the race for superiority in science and technology is no longer only about patriotic pride, it has become synonymous with national security. The challenge then becomes to sustain scientific collaborations in this charged context.
But, make no mistake, originality and innovation thrive in environments that facilitate the free flow of ideas, cross training, talent mobility and infrastructure sharing. Wasn’t that the Silicon Valley model?
Research collaborations can accelerate innovation and boost goods and service industries everywhere, whether new or traditional. Participating in research and development increases trust, promotes harmonized standards, accelerates adoption, and contributes to developing a qualified workforce and a more scientifically literate society.
Think future energy and health products, but also quantum science and artificial intelligence, among others. This is why investing in international science collaborations is not just about exchanging knowledge and talent — it’s a smart, long-term economic strategy. Think about it: Science is the one resource that grows when it is shared.
Which is why science needs diplomacy to help promote the mutual benefits of working together, whether one’s country is a science powerhouse or one working to address historic imbalances. Conversely, science is a powerful tool for diplomacy, be it for promoting global North–South relations or enhancing inter- and intra-continental collaborations on important issues, including achieving the UN sustainable development goals.
On shared challenges, such as health equity, sustainable development and technology access, transnational collaboration can ensure that everyone can contribute to scientific progress and innovation, and access their benefits. When we do this, we are helping to unlock the potential of the many — not just the few. By inviting diverse voices to the conversation, we create solutions that reflect the world, not just one corner of it.
History has shown that science diplomacy prevails over division. The Montreal Protocol healed the ozone layer. International vaccine collaboration saved millions during the covid pandemic. The Human Genome Project has led to new understanding and countless new treatments for disease. These examples, among many others, show how international collaboration built on trust, reciprocity and scientific integrity, accelerates discovery and benefits everyone.
That is why we need to continue to champion science and support scientific institutions around the world. We need to promote open and secure science that advances our societies and empowers citizens. And we need to work together to improve science literacy because that too is powerful to address dis- and misinformation. We must continue to underscore the fact that science is a public good—a hope for a better tomorrow and a catalyst for innovation and prosperity.
Most of all, we need to celebrate that science belongs to everyone. Because you can’t put a tariff on knowledge.
Science diplomats can create sustainable partnerships that outlast political cycles and geopolitical tensions. They can foster more stable and productive international relationships. Engaging in transparent knowledge exchange. Building trust through scientific cooperation. Bridging political divides. This is why our work matters more now than ever.
So, let’s continue to work together, ensuring that science remains a force for peace, progress and a better world.
Thank you. Merci.