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2024.11.10
Seoul
International Day of Science for Peace and Development
Jaqueline Perez Gamboa
Science has always been a powerful tool for human advancement and its use is critical for the construction of a peaceful and prosperous world. Established by UNESCO in 2001, every year on November 10, the world commemorates the International Day of Science for Peace and Development. This day aims to highlight the importance of applying scientific knowledge and research to addressing social challenges, the promotion of peace and the support of sustainable development around the world.
The International Day of Science for Peace and Development was born out of a commitment by UNESCO to promote a culture where science is recognized as a global public good. The initiative encourages countries, communities and individuals to understand and recognize science as a global resource that transcends borders or ideologies. Therefore, this day is a platform to encourage an inclusive and ethical approach to science, reminding the global community and its political leaders that science must be used within social responsibility in order to contribute to the construction of peace.
Due to scientific research enables us to face shared global challenges like climate change or pandemic outbreaks; countries, international leaders and the scientific communities collaborate to find solutions and reduce the impact and conflicts derived from such problematics. Because of this, global cooperation is promoted by science since scientific objectives often require the collaboration among academic and scientific communities with governmental and private associations worldwide. Consequently, science works as a bridge that brings together different nations, culture and ideologies by the promotion of a cross-cultural cooperation and shared goals.
Science also plays a pivotal role in advancing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. These goals include the ending of poverty, gender equality achievement and climate change combat.
Science is essential first, in the understanding of global problematics and the mitigation of the effects of any conflict resulting from them. For instance, in the climate change problematics, scientists and researchers are developing sustainable technologies and strategies to reduce the human’s environmental impact. Healthcare and well-being are also affected by scientific advancements in medicine and public health. Through innovation, scientists work to eradicate diseases, create vaccines and ensure healthcare access to all world’s population.
The International Day of Science for Peace and Development is not only a celebration but also a call to action. It invites everybody to recognize science as a unifying resource, encouraging the global community to invest in scientific research and education that promote human’s well-being. It is essential to understand science not only as technological advancements, but as a powerful tool for the creation of a global community where knowledge is used in favor of every human, that foster the build of a sustainable and peaceful future. Through this celebration, the international community is reminded of the shared responsibility to use science as a bridge that peacefully can solve critical challenges for humanity.
Written by Jaqueline Perez Gamboa for Yonsei GSIS Human Rights Hub
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