In a meaningful move to bridge teh gap between science and politics, the Parliamentary Office for the Evaluation of Scientific and Technological Choices, alongside the Academy of Sciences and the National Academy of Medicine, has launched a groundbreaking partnership in spring 2024. This initiative aims to foster a deeper understanding between parliamentarians and the scientific community, focusing on shared interests and collaborative discussions on the political, ethical, and societal implications of scientific advancements.
The partnership is structured into two main components:
- A structured “twinning” program that pairs a parliamentarian, an academician, and a young researcher. This initiative encourages mutual exploration of local issues within constituencies and laboratories. A dedicated exchange day was held in Paris on May 15, 2024, to facilitate discussions among thes triads.
- A plenary meeting between the Office and the Academies, where four recent reports selected by the Academies will be discussed.These reports highlight critical issues that require public policy decisions.
The upcoming plenary session is scheduled for Thursday,January 23,at 9 AM,taking place in the Lamartine Room of the National Assembly,located at 101 Rue de l’Université,Paris 7th.
the reports to be presented during this meeting include:
- “Hydrogen Today and Tomorrow” (Academy of Sciences);
- “vaccination of Seniors” (National Academy of Medicine);
- “Towards a Reform of Research in Biology and Health” (national Academy of Medicine).
This partnership represents a pivotal step in aligning scientific research with legislative action, ensuring that policymakers are well-informed about the latest scientific developments and their implications for society.
Time.news Interview: Bridging Science and Politics in France
Editor (T.N.): Welcome, Dr.Marie Dupont, a leading expert in science policy and research ethics. Today, we’re discussing an exciting new initiative in France aimed at enhancing collaboration between the scientific community and policymakers. Could you provide an overview of this groundbreaking partnership?
Dr. Dupont (D.D.): Absolutely! This partnership, initiated by the Parliamentary Office for the Evaluation of Scientific and Technological Choices in collaboration with the Academy of Sciences and the National Academy of Medicine, was launched in spring 2024. Its primary goal is too foster a deeper understanding between parliamentarians and the scientific community. They seek to focus on shared interests while discussing the political, ethical, and societal implications of scientific advancements.
T.N.: That sounds promising! What are the main components of this partnership?
D.D.: Ther are two key components. First, they have established a “twinning” program that pairs a parliamentarian, an academician, and a young researcher. This initiative promotes the exploration of local issues within constituencies and laboratories,effectively creating a flow of knowledge between science and politics.
Secondly,there will be plenary meetings where representatives from the Office and the Academies will discuss critical reports addressing pertinent public policy decisions. The first of these meetings is scheduled for January 23, where four significant reports will be presented.
T.N.: What can you tell us about the reports that will be discussed in the upcoming plenary session?
D.D.: These reports cover various crucial topics: “hydrogen today and Tomorrow,” which discusses the future role of hydrogen in our energy landscape; “Vaccination of Seniors,” which addresses health policy for an aging population; “Major Satellite Constellations: Challenges and Impacts,” examining the implications of satellite technology; and “Towards a Reform of Research in Biology and Health,” which focuses on potential advancements in these fields. Each report represents cutting-edge research and informs lawmakers about critical scientific developments.
T.N.: How significant do you think this initiative is for the relationship between science and politics in France?
D.D.: This partnership is indeed pivotal. It creates a structured dialog between researchers and legislators, ensuring that policymakers are equipped with the latest scientific insights. By aligning scientific research with legislative action,we enhance the quality of public policy.this approach can lead to more informed decision-making and ultimately benefit society by ensuring that science and technology address pressing societal issues.
T.N.: What advice would you give to young researchers looking to engage with policymakers?
D.D.: Young researchers shoudl actively seek opportunities to participate in initiatives like this ”twinning” program. Building networks with parliamentarians and other stakeholders can enhance their understanding of how science influences policy. additionally, they should focus on clearly communicating their research in terms that resonate with broader societal concerns. Engaging in public forums and dialogues can significantly amplify their impact.
T.N.: Thank you, Dr. Dupont, for yoru insights into this vital initiative. It appears that bridging the gap between science and politics will not only enhance research’s role in policymaking but also ensure a more informed approach to addressing societal challenges.
D.D.: My pleasure! I look forward to seeing how this partnership develops and contributes to a more integrated approach to science and policy in France.
T.N.: For our readers, stay tuned for updates on the upcoming plenary session and the impact of this exciting initiative on the future of science and politics in France!
